Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents

Monday, November 15, 1999 Volume 35—Number 45 Pages 2267–2372

1 Contents

Addresses and Remarks Addresses and Remarks—Continued See also Bill Signings; Meetings With Foreign Pennsylvania Leaders Departure for York—2319 Arkansas, teleconference with rural radio Harley-Davidson Motor Co. employees in stations on agricultural issues in York Hermitage—2267 Remarks—2323 Roundtable—2321 Budget negotiations—2283, 2306, 2356 Radio address—2280 Congressional Gold Medals, presentations to Ronald H. Brown Corporate Bridge Builder Award dinner—2348 the Little Rock Nine—2307 Virginia Democratic National Committee Return from Arlington National Hispanic Leadership Forum dinner—2312 Cemetery—2356 Veterans Day ceremony in Arlington—2353 Women’s Leadership Forum reception— Y2K readiness—2319 2310 Bill Signings Georgetown University—2286 Financial system, legislation to reform Illinois, Englewood community in Chicago— Remarks—2361 2271 Statement—2363 National Coalition of Minority Business award Legislation to locate and secure the return of Zachary Baumel, a United States citizen, dinner—2341 and other Israeli soldiers missing in action, On-line townhall meeting—2293 statement—2305

(Continued on the inside of the back cover.)

Editor’s Note: The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents is also available on the Inter- net on the GPO Access service at http://www.gpo.gov/nara/nara003.html.

WEEKLY COMPILATION OF regulations prescribed by the Administrative Committee of the Federal Register, approved by the President (37 FR 23607; 1 CFR Part 10). PRESIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS Distribution is made only by the Superintendent of Docu- ments, Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. Published every Monday by the Office of the Federal Reg- The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents will be ister, National Archives and Records Administration, Washing- furnished by mail to domestic subscribers for $80.00 per year ton, DC 20408, the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- ($137.00 for mailing first class) and to foreign subscribers for ments contains statements, messages, and other Presidential $93.75 per year, payable to the Superintendent of Documents, materials released by the White House during the preceding Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. The week. charge for a single copy is $3.00 ($3.75 for foreign mailing). The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents is pub- There are no restrictions on the republication of material lished pursuant to the authority contained in the Federal Reg- appearing in the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- ister Act (49 Stat. 500, as amended; 44 U.S.C. Ch. 15), under ments.

2 Contents—Continued

Communications to Congress Proclamations Cyprus, letter transmitting report—2340 Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Drug producing and transit countries, letter Nonimmigrants of Persons Responsible for reporting—2338 Repression of the Civilian Population in Iran, message on continuation of the national Kosovo or for Policies That Obstruct emergency—2282 Democracy in the Federal Republic of Sudan, message transmitting report on Yugoslavia (Serbia and Montenegro) continuation of the national emergency— (‘‘FRY’’) or Otherwise Lend Support to the 2283 Current Governments of the FRY and of Ukraine-U.S. treaty mutual legal assistance the Republic of Serbia—2366 with documentation, message Veterans Day—2292 transmitting—2341 Resignations and Retirements Weapons of mass destruction, message reporting—2331 International Monetary Fund, Managing Director, statement—2310 Communications to Federal Agencies Statements by the President Assistance to refugees and victims of the See also Bill Signings; Resignations and Timor and North Caucasus crises, Retirements memorandum—2353 Colombia, funding to assist in fighting drug Protecting Consumers from Fraud, production and trafficking—2329 memorandum—2281 Death of Joseph Serna, Jr.—2282 ‘‘Ending Discrimination Against Parents Act of 1999,’’ proposed—2359 Interviews With the News Media Minimum wage legislation—2310 Exchanges with reporters Senate Cabinet Room—2306 Confirmation of Carol Moseley-Braun to be Oval Office—2356, 2359 Ambassador to New Zealand—2329 South Grounds—2283, 2319 Ratification of the Convention on the Interview with Maria Elvira Salazar of Elimination of the Worst Forms of Child Telemundo Noticiero—2275 Labor—2275 Serbia, Proclamation to expand sanctions against the Milosevic regime—2366 Meetings With Foreign Leaders Supplementary Materials Indonesia, President Wahid—2359 Acts approved by the President—2371 Checklist of White House press releases— Notices 2371 Continuation of Emergency Regarding Digest of other White House Weapons of Mass Destruction—2330 announcements—2367 Continuation of Iran Emergency—2282 Nominations submitted to the Senate—2368

3 Week Ending Friday, November 12, 1999

Remarks in a Teleconference With less concerned if we have more of a corporate Rural Radio Stations on Agricultural structure. I think that’s a mistake. I think, Issues in Hermitage, Arkansas on the concentration issues, I think they all ought to be looked at. And if they’re not November 5, 1999 legal, I think they ought to be moved against. The President. How are you doing? But under our system, I have to be very care- Stewart Doan. Fine, sir. Welcome back ful as President, legally, not to comment on down to Arkansas. specific potential violations of the antitrust The President. Nice to hear your voice, laws. Stewart. And the reason we had a decline in mar- kets is because the American economy was [Mr. Doan of the Arkansas Radio Network booming and the Asian economy collapsed, began the conference listing American farm- and the Russian economy collapsed. I believe ers’ problems, including low commodity the markets will pick up now, as Asia’s econ- prices, high production costs, reduction in ex- omy picks up and as Europe’s picks up. But ports juxtaposed with a rise in imports, and we’re going to have this World Trade Organi- the growing number of farmers exiting the zation meeting in Seattle, Washington, next business. He asked what incentives existed for month. And I think it’s very important that crop growers to stay in farming for the next we start a new trade round, and that agri- century.] culture be at the center of it, because we’ve The President. Well, let me say first of always known if we got a fair shot to sell all, I think we’ve got to change the ’95 farm our products around the world, we could bill. When the Republican Congress passed outcompete anybody. it at the end of the session, they did it in And I think in the short run, we’ve got such a way that I had to sign it, because oth- to fix the farm bill to deal with emergencies. erwise we would have been left with the 1948 In the longer run, we’ve got to have more law, which was even worse. But the problem markets. And that’s what I’m going to be is, it has no safety net that’s adjustable to working on. the conditions. And I think that’s very impor- Mr. Doan. Thank you sir. tant to change. Mike Adams, president, National Associa- And while it is true that we have put a [ tion of Farm Broadcasters, noted many farm- ton of money into emergency payments to ers would like to see markets in Cuba opened. farmers the last 2 years, it’s basically given He asked the President if he was in favor out under the distribution system of the exist- of lifting the embargo on Cuba and, if not, ing law, which means some really big farmers why. get it even if they don’t plant and don’t need ] the money, and they get a windfall; and then The President. Well, I’m not in favor of some of the family farmers that are actually a total lift of the embargo, because I think out there really killing themselves every year, that we should continue to try to put pressure in spite of all the money we’re spending, are on the Castro regime to move more toward not adequately compensated. democracy and respect for human rights. So I think—you know, I think it’s a mis- And it’s the only nondemocracy in our whole take. And I think that it’s because—I frankly hemisphere. believe that the majority in Congress is not And let me say, I have bent over back- as sensitive as they should be to the existence wards to try to reach out to them, and to of family farmers and individual farmers, and try to provide more opportunities for person-

2267 2268 Nov. 5 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 to-person contacts, to get better transfer of The President Well, first of all, the last medicine into Cuba, and all kinds of other increase, pursuant to the settlement that the things. And every time we do something, tobacco companies made with the States, Castro shoots planes down and kills people didn’t have any protections for tobacco farm- illegally, or puts people in jail because they ers at all. And I thought it was wrong. And say something he doesn’t like. And I almost that’s because we couldn’t get Congress to think he doesn’t want us to lift the embargo, ratify and participate in the settlement. because it provides him an excuse for the Let me remind you, when I became Presi- failures, the economic failures of his adminis- dent, I said I would keep the tobacco support tration. program. I said—I did what I could to in- Now, on the other hand, there is consider- crease the domestic content, to protect ation being given in the Congress to broad American tobacco sales in the American mar- legislation which would permit us to, in ef- ket. And I always said that the tobacco farm- fect, not apply sanctions and embargoes to ers had to be taken care of in any tobacco food or medicine. And under the right cir- settlement. cumstances, I could support that. Now—and So we had, in our proposal—you said you it had broad bipartisan support. My under- had losses of $300 million. We had, I think, standing is that it has been held up in the $5 billion in support to tobacco farmers and Congress because Senator Helms and others tobacco communities, to help to deal with don’t want us to sell any food to Cuba. But the adverse impact of any increase in the under the right circumstances, a general pol- price. And, you know, it sounds funny—since icy which permitted me to—which basically I’ve been so strong for increasing the price, said it is the general policy of the United because I want to reduce teen smoking, and States not to include food and medicine in I want funds to pay for health programs relat- embargoes, but under emergencies they ed to cigarette-related illnesses and to dis- could be—I could support that kind of legis- courage young people from smoking—but I lation. And I think that would provide a lot never would sanction a price increase of the of relief to the farmers. kind that you have already experienced under But it would have to be written in the the settlement between the States and the proper way. And I have worked with both tobacco companies, without a huge increase Republicans and Democrats on that. But it’s in the investment in tobacco farmers and my understanding that Cuba is the very issue families and tobacco communities. I think that’s preventing it from being passed in the that it’s wrong to do that. Congress today. The tobacco farmers didn’t do anything Mr. Adams. Thank you, sir. wrong. We ought to be paying for major tran- The President. Let me—if I could just sition assistance and other kinds of economic follow up on the question. We supported lift- development and support to the tobacco ing sanctions against Pakistan and India and farmers and to the communities in which reforming the sanctions law. And we have they live. So under my plan, you’d get some- sold a great deal of corn to Iran, for example. thing like $5 billion, which would be much And before the Ayatollah took over, in my more than the short-term economic damage, State sometimes we sold as much as 25 per- to create a whole different future and to actu- cent of our rice crop over there. So it’s a ally compensate for the actual out-of-pocket big issue with me, and I’ll do what I can to losses. help. We’re for sanctions reform in the right kind of way, to basically exempt food and Mr. Allan. Thank you, sir. medicine from sanctions. Bill Ray. Mr. President, Bill Ray here at Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina. [Price Allan of Kentucky Ag Net described The President. Hi, Bill. how the President’s proposed 55 cent tax on tobacco would affect rural communities in [Mr. Ray of the Agrinet Farm Radio Network Kentucky and the Southeast and asked the asked the President what suggestions he had President to discuss his plans to compensate to give American food producers better access tobacco growers.] to Japanese and European markets.] Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 5 2269

The President. Well, I think there are two The President. Sure. things we have to do. I think the most impor- Mr. Allan. Looking to the WTO talks in tant thing we can do is to get the Europeans Seattle, there are reports that Charlene and the Japanese to agree to include broad Barshefsky is prepared to offer up the pro- agricultural talks in a new trade round to be gram crops, such as peanuts, sugar, and to- completed within 3 years. That is, we need bacco, and their support quotas, in return for a global opening of markets. And as the econ- foreign countries removing their tariffs and omy recovers in Asia and in Europe and else- subsidies. Is that currently the game plan? where, we will see an increase in food con- And if so, what suggestions do you have for sumption and an increase in the capacity to farmers that will be affected if that happens? buy American food. So I think the most im- The President. To the best of my knowl- portant thing is that we’ve got to have a real edge, there has been no pre-existing offer broad trade round. like that put on the table. If there was one, Then the second thing I think is quite im- they’d have to discuss it with me first, and portant is that we bargain very tough with I—then I’d be glad to answer that question. the Europeans and the Japanese in our bilat- But I—to the best of my knowledge, there eral relations. You know, they’re always want- has been no decision to do that yet, because ing to sell things to the United States, and neither the Secretary of Agriculture nor I they’re always wanting to close their markets have been consulted on that. And I just don’t to our food products. believe some position of that magnitude Mr. Ray. Exactly. would be taken without prior consultation The President. Now, we’ve had some real with us. And it wouldn’t hold water if we success in opening Japan to specific food didn’t agree. products, particularly. But the biggest prob- Mr. Allan. Thank you, sir. lem, frankly, is the trade barriers and, specifi- Mr. Doan asked if the issues of genetically cally, tariffs on farm products. Worldwide, [ modified organisms (GMO’s) and overly hor- the average tariff on farm products is 50 per- mone-treated beef were discussed when the cent. In the United States, the average is less President met with the President of the Euro- than 10 percent. So I think we just have to pean Commission, Romano Prodi. tell people, ‘‘Look, we’ve tried to give you ] access to our markets, but you’ve got to give The President. Yes. Yes, and let me tell us access to yours.’’ We have to have better you where we are on that. parity here. And if we can get it, then we Let’s talk about the GMO’s first. We can do fine. told—we have repeatedly told the Euro- Now, in a lot of places—you know, a lot peans, and the whole world, that the United of these other countries, their farmers are States has prided itself on having not only just as strong politically as our farmers are. the cheapest but the safest food supply in And they’re not as strong agriculturally. But the world, and that we never want to sell there is a way for them to get the benefits anything to our people, much less to anybody of being able to sell their products in our else, that isn’t safe; that we have confidence markets, which the Japanese plainly do and in the finding of our Food and Drug Admin- the Europeans do. And they ought to give istration that these foods are safe. And if we us a chance to sell into theirs. didn’t believe that, we wouldn’t be selling And that’s why I wanted to host this meet- them. And we certainly wouldn’t be eating ing at the World Trade Organization, and them. why we want to kick off this trade deal, be- And one of the big problems is—and the cause I think that the biggest advantage, not Europeans recognize this, by the way—one just for farmers but for all of America, out of the big problems they have is that there of new trade talks is the advantage we’d have is no equivalent organization to the American in greater agricultural sales. Food and Drug Administration, certainly in Mr. Ray. Thank you, Mr. President. the European Union as a whole, and, frankly, Mr. Allan. Mr. President, may I follow in individual European countries. So what we up with a question to that? tried to do is get them—not necessarily to 2270 Nov. 5 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 agree with us on everything, but not to panic, But anyway—the GMO’s, we’ve got to give and to make a commitment that this ought the Europeans a chance to look at it. But to be a decision made based on the science it’s got to be done on a science basis, be- and the evidence, not on politics and fear; cause—you know, you know yourself that I that, you know, the United States is not about would never permit an American child to eat to sell other people, or feed its own people, anything that I thought was unsafe. If we had food that we think is dangerous. We would any reason, based on our own scientific re- never, ever do that. views, to question this, we would question And all these things have been reviewed it. So all we want the Europeans to do is by the appropriate authorities that we have to have the same kind of scientific approach. reason to have confidence in. And they say If we get there, we’ll work through this GMO that it cuts the cost of production and is per- thing, and it’ll all come out just fine. fectly safe. So what—our goal with the Euro- Mr. Doan. Thank you, sir. peans is to get them to commit unambig- [Mr. Adams asked the President if American uously to making decisions with GMO’s negotiators will be at a disadvantage in the based on science. upcoming World Trade Organization talks in Now, with the beef, it’s a different issue. Seattle, WA, without fast-track trading au- We have a decision there, by the governing thority and if he’ll make another push to ob- body of the WTO. We won, and they lost. tain it before leaving office.] They were all panicked, as you might under- The President. The short answers are yes stand, over their so-called mad cow problem. and yes, but we’re not at too much of a dis- And as a result, it became an occasion to dis- advantage. That is, we can still negotiate, ac- criminate against our beef. It’s just wrong. tually, because we have the WTO framework. We’ve won two important agricultural We can still start a new trade round and bring cases, one involving beef, the other involving it back to Congress. And it’s 3 years down bananas, which are not produced in America the road anyway. but are owned by American companies. And So to the extent that we’re at any disadvan- the Europeans have to give us satisfaction. tage, it’s more psychological than anything Once you play by the rules, you know—if else, because other countries traditionally we lose a case in the WTO to them, they have been far more protectionist than Amer- expect us to honor the ruling. We have won ica—because we have a stronger economy, not once, not twice, but three times, and they and we just tend to be more competitive, and keep ignoring the rulings. we understand the benefits we get from open And so all I can tell you is I’ve already markets. So when we refuse to adopt fast imposed some sanctions and will impose track, it makes it easier for other countries more until we get satisfaction. We won the to refuse to reduce their tariffs on farm prod- beef case, and we’re entitled to the results ucts and to otherwise be more protectionist. of our victory. And you know, if they take So it’s like a psychological advantage. us in here and they beat us fair and square, But in the way the WTO system works, we’ve got to let them win. we’d launch this new trade round. It wouldn’t So we’re in a real serious confrontation have to be ratified for 3 years, or completed with the Europeans over the beef and banana for 3 years. So the fact that we don’t have issues. I think we’ll prevail, and I think we’ll the fast-track authority right now is not a big prevail in fairly short order. Romano Prodi problem there. It’s a bigger problem in our is a very able man, the new head of the Euro- efforts to develop a Free Trade Area of the pean Union. He’s a very serious person, and Americas and get our own neighbors to keep he has great potential for long-term leader- buying more and more of our products. And ship and partnership with the United States. our trade has grown more with Latin Amer- And the other—he’s got a whole crowd of ica than with any other part of the world in immensely talented people in there. So I’m the short run. very hopeful we’re finally going to get some So that’s the real answer to that. We could good results. still get a very good WTO deal without fast Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 5 2271 track, because we can’t ratify for 3 years any- of the Press Secretary also included the remarks way. of Messrs. Doan, Adams, Allan, and Ray. This item was not received in time for publication in [Mr. Allan asked the President how he would the appropriate issue. like farmers to remember his Presidency.] The President. Well, I want them to re- Remarks to the Englewood member first of all that I turned the Amer- Community in Chicago, Illinois ican economy around, and that until the col- lapse of the Asian economy, we had very, November 5, 1999 very good agricultural years, in the beginning Thank you very, very much. And thank of my administration. We had record exports, you, ladies and gentlemen, for coming and record farm income. for being so full of enthusiasm and making I want them to remember that I had a spe- me feel so welcome. Mr. Speaker, thank you cial emphasis on rural development. I’m for coming. We are honored by your pres- down in south Arkansas today at a tomato ence and your alliance. cooperative to try to emphasize the impor- I want to also thank my good friend Con- tance of having very, very strong co-ops of gressman Bobby Rush. We’ve been friends individual farmers, so that little guys can have a long time, and he has worked in these last a better chance to make a living; and that weeks through his own personal sadness still I’ve worked to try to find nonfarm sources on your business and to bring us all here of income to support farmers in small com- today. And I thank him for that. munities. I thank this great array of Members of the I want them to remember that we did a House of Representatives who are here, really good job on increasing food safety and Congressman Danny Davis—we’re the Ar- that that was good for marketing, because kansas contingent on the platform, Danny safe food sells, and that the food is safer now and I are—[laughter]—Congressman Jesse than it was when I took office. Jackson, Jr., and Congressman Paul Kan- And I want them to remember that—I jorski who has made this whole tour with us don’t know yet if I’m going to succeed, but twice, coming all the way from Pennsyl- that I opposed the so-called freedom to farm vania—a good man. concept without an adequate safety net for I thank the Secretary of State, the Attorney family farmers. I am—I think it does matter General, and the State treasurer of the State whether family farmers can make a living on of Illinois, all of them, for being here. I thank the land. I don’t think that America would Secretary Slater and Small Business Adminis- be the same kind of country, and that rural trator Alvarez for their strong support for our America would have the same kind of char- new markets initiative and their involvement. acter, if all the farmers of any size were cor- I want to thank Samuel Williams, your prin- porate farms and individual family farms cipal here, for welcoming us. [Applause] couldn’t make it. You know, this is the second biggest hand So I hope I’ll be remembered for the pros- he’s gotten here. [Laughter] Bobby, I hope perity of the years before the Asian financial you have made sure he’s not interested in collapse, which I hope will return before I running for Congress. [Laughter] This is leave office; for a real emphasis on rural de- amazing. When he got his first big hand, the velopment; for an emphasis on food safety; Speaker leaned over to me and said, ‘‘You and for a genuine concern for the family know, when a school principal gets that kind farmer. of hand, something must be going right Secretary of Agriculture Daniel Glick- there.’’ [Laughter] man. Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank Paul Vallas, the CEO of The President. Thank you. the Chicago public schools, for being here NOTE: The President spoke at 1:07 p.m. by tele- and for the great job that Chicago is making phone from the Hermitage Tomato Cooperative. in turning around its schools. This school, I In his remarks, he referred to President Fidel Cas- was just told by the principal—when I walked tro of Cuba. The transcript released by the Office in, the first thing he said was, ‘‘Thank you 2272 Nov. 5 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 for Goals 2000.’’ The second thing he said lowest crime rates in 30 years, the lowest was, ‘‘We are hooked up to the Internet in poverty rates in 20 years, over 5 million men, this school; we are ready for the 21st cen- women, and children lifted out of poverty. tury.’’ We have the highest homeownership, includ- I want to thank David Shryock for his lead- ing the highest minority homeownership, in ership and all the other CEO’s who are here, the history of our country, and the first back- Jack Greenberg from McDonald’s and all the to-back budget surpluses in 42 years. others from the banks and the other compa- Now, we are here because we know there nies. Thank you all for being here. are people and places, in spite of all these And let me say, this has acquired a greater wonderful numbers, that have still not been significance here because the Speaker’s come touched by this prosperity. In spite of the in, and in honor of this bipartisan event, we fact that this is the longest economic recovery had the Speaker of the House, and out of in peacetime in our history—and in February respect, Reverend Jackson has dressed up will become the longest recovery of any kind like a Republican today. [Laughter] So this in our history—there are people and places is a whole new day. [Laughter] untouched by our prosperity. We know that I am glad to be back here in Chicago. I we have an opportunity now, with all this have been interested in this city for a long good fortune, to deal with our obligation to time. And as you know, the First Lady is a bring the American dream to those people native of Chicago, and we spent lots of years and places. here. And I was interested in all these neigh- And I believe that the only way we can borhoods long before I even thought I’d have keep this economic recovery going is to find a chance to be President. And I worked with new customers, new jobs, and new busi- the South Shore Bank and set up a parallel nesses. There’s a huge debate—I say this be- bank in Arkansas, where we just were today. There’s one other thing I would like to say cause this is, yes, about discharging our re- before I go further, both as President and sponsibility to our fellow citizens, but it’s also as a citizen of this country. I am very grateful very much in the self-interest of everybody for the life and the example of Walter Payton. from Wall Street to Silicon Valley. You can’t I know that this is the day of his service, and imagine how many hours we spend in the tomorrow there will be a great memorial White House talking about how in the world service, and there will be sadness and sorrow. we can keep this economic expansion going. But what a magnificent life. And what gifts You know, every time in the past, things he gave us, not just on the playing field but either get so hot there’s a lot of inflation, on the playing field of life. And right to the and then you have to break the inflation, and very end, he showed us a lot of lessons about that brings on a recession—or the economic how we should all conduct ourselves and expansion just runs out of gas. So we have what kind of legacy we should leave to our to find a way not to run out of gas and to children. And I think we should remember keep going without inflation. that today, for this is a day about our chil- Obviously, if you bring opportunity to peo- dren. ple and places that haven’t had it, if there Let me tell you—we use this word, ‘‘new are new businesses, new workers, new con- markets,’’ and Bobby issued all these an- sumers, you can have growth without infla- nouncements, and I want to make a few tion. So we are here today—what this new more. But let me try to put this into some markets name means is that if Englewood context for you. Compared to the day I be- still has a poverty rate more than 21⁄2 times came President, this is a different country, the rate of Chicago, if the median household economically and socially. We have nearly 20 income in this community is barely more million new jobs; a 4.1 percent unemploy- than half of Chicago, if there are still ment rate, the lowest in 30 years. We have boarded-up brownstones and shutup store- the lowest female unemployment in 46 years; fronts, that means this is not just a problem, the lowest minority unemployment ever re- this is an opportunity. This is a new market, corded. We have the lowest welfare rolls, the and everybody in America ought to care Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 5 2273 about it and be committed to it and do what genius and their hard work to the arena of can be done to advance it. enterprise that has given our country all these You have proved, by these announcements blessings we enjoy today. here and more, that there is more than pov- And I said in January, when I proposed erty here; there is enormous promise. Look this new markets effort, that I wanted it to at these kids. Look at this school. Get the be a bipartisan effort, indeed an American idea, the feeling, the pride, the accomplish- effort, above politics, because we all have a ment here. This is a place of promise. Later stake in this. I want to compliment Danny I will meet with some of the members of Davis for recognizing this and working with the women’s self-employment project, which two Republican Members of the House of has given—listen to this—more than 7,000 Representatives, Congressman Watts and women the tools to create their own busi- Congressman Talent, to come up with an nesses and shape their own futures. I’m going ‘‘American Community Renewal Act,’’ which to go visit Franz Print Shop, which is a small has a lot of the same goals of our empower- business making large strides in your com- ment zone effort and our new markets initia- munity. You have more partnerships to build, tive. more success stories to write with govern- Now, this is something we ought to do to- ment and business working together. That’s gether. I’m amazed we got any press about what we’re here to celebrate. this at all today—Mr. Hastert got a lot of We have seen it here in Englewood, thanks press coming all the way from Washington to the announcements that Congressman to be with us—and I think it’s because Rush made and all the work he did to lay they’re used to writing in Washington about the foundation for our business here today; how we all fight about everything. So we had thanks to the work of the mayor, who has two choices here. We can say, well, they’ve committed over $250 million in public and got an idea; we’ve got an idea; let’s have a private investment for this neighborhood in fight. Or we can do what the Speaker and the next 4 years; thanks to the efforts of Rev- I and the others here have decided to do. erend Jackson, who launched not only a Wall In Reverend Jackson’s famous words, we Street project but a LaSalle Street project have decided to seek common ground and to bring private capital to our poorest neigh- higher ground because it’s the right ground borhoods. for these children’s futures to stand on. This can work. It can work here; it can Today the Speaker and I—I’ll let him work all across America. It is already working speak for himself—but basically we’re here in many places across America in the em- to commit to you, and to the American peo- powerment zones, in the enterprise commu- ple, to work in good faith, to merge our pro- nities we have been establishing since 1993 posals into a historic bipartisan effort to under the strong leadership of Vice President renew our communities, to open new mar- Gore. But Government can’t do it alone. kets and new doors of opportunity. If we One of the most important things that we work together in this way, Mr. Speaker, we have to do is to make sure we have genuine can ensure that every hard-working family partnerships. And this ought to be an Amer- has a share of the prosperity and a stake in ican idea. I mean, when you go into the bank the future that our country plainly has before and you deposit money or borrow money, it. your party doesn’t make any difference. We have a lot that we can do. We just When you go into the restaurant and you worked together on a historic bill to modern- spend money, nobody asks you before they ize and broaden the reach of the financial take the money or the credit card whether institutions of this country. But we did it by you’re a Republican or a Democrat. Nobody keeping and broadening the reach of the has a vested interest in anybody who wants Community Reinvestment Act, which has to work staying unemployed. No one in been responsible for about $88 billion in in- America has a vested interest in anybody with vestment into our communities in the last a good idea for a new business not being able year alone. This is the kind of thing we can to act on that idea and bring their creative do together. 2274 Nov. 5 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

And we know that all we can do, really, President. And I want to thank you, sir, for is to set up a framework. My new markets doing this. idea is that we ought to give Americans with Well, I want to make room now for the money to invest the same incentives to invest Speaker and for Reverend Jackson, but I just in poor areas of America we give them to want to close with this observation. For a invest in poor areas of Latin America or Afri- long time, we were so used to some people ca or Asia. And I think all of you know that, being down and out that we acted like we for me, that’s not an either/or choice. I’m believed it had to be that way. This is a big glad when we have Americans try to help issue, because all the money in the world and people in Africa or Latin America or Asia all the good government action in the world have a better future, because I think as they can’t overcome your lack of faith in your- do, they make more responsible citizens and selves. And for a long time, we just acted they make war less likely and they make co- like it had to be that way. operation and shared prosperity more likely. The other night, Hillary sponsored a din- But we clearly have the highest obligations ner at the White House, or an evening at to our own people and we cannot, in good the White House, to talk about the relation- conscience, not give people the same incen- ship of the revolution in computer tech- tives to Americans a chance to make a living, nology to the revolution in the study of the to start a business, and to build a future. human gene, and the whole gene structure, I also want to reiterate, nothing we do will that’s called the genome. And what the sci- work without the commitment of the private entist and the computer genius said was, we business sector. You’ve already heard about could never unlock the mysteries of the the vital commitments that SB Partners has human gene unless we had this remarkable made today. I’m also pleased to note that All- revolution in computers, which can literally state Insurance will invest $5 million in the allow us to map these microscopic things that Illinois Facilities Fund to go toward edu- make up our body. cation and child care here in Englewood. Here’s the point I want to make to all of That’s very important—if you want to have you here in Englewood—the most important jobs, you’ve got to have the child care support thing that was said all night long. This big for parents. And I thank Ed Liddy * for join- professor from Harvard who understands ing us today. The Community Investment things about the human gene structure that Corporation will expand its efforts here into I couldn’t even describe said something I’ll Englewood and into the enterprize zone that remember for the rest of my life. He said is nearby. all human beings, genetically—all human And as part of the welfare-to-work part- beings—are 99.9 percent the same. And then nership, Alliance Relocation Services is he said, if you took any given racial or ethnic teaming up with Allied and DePaul Univer- group—let’s say you took 100 people from sity to launch a new job training program. west Africa and 100 Chinese and 100 people McDonald’s, represented here by its CEO, from Mexico and 100 people from India and Jack Greenberg, which has a huge, long his- 100 people from Ireland, the genetic dif- tory of investing in America’s untapped po- ferences of the individuals within each group tential, is working to encourage mentoring would be significantly greater than the ge- relationships between large companies and netic differences from group to group—that small ones, through our BusinessLINC initia- is, between any group of Irish and group of tive. The idea is that big, successful compa- Chinese or group of Africans or group of nies can help small, emerging ones in neigh- Mexicans. You remember that. borhoods like this succeed if they just know You’ve got to believe. Just look at this high more about the basic things they have to do school. Look at the alumni of this high to get started and to keep going in the early school. This high school’s produced poets, periods of the business. This is a huge deal, Cabinet secretaries, the first African-Amer- pioneered by business leaders and the Vice ican astronaut; Lorraine Hansberry, the play- wright of the wonderful play, ‘‘A Raisin in * White House correction. the Sun.’’ Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 5 2275

Now—you’re going to hear from a young I am particularly gratified by the bipartisan man later who will do this better than me, unanimity that carried this convention but one of the greatest lines in ‘‘A Raisin through the Senate from introduction to final in the Sun’’—you ought to go back and read approval. For this, I offer my sincere thanks it—is, a character says, ‘‘All God’s children to Senate Foreign Relations Committee got wings.’’ That’s another way of saying, ge- Chairman Jesse Helms, Ranking Member netically, we’re 99.9 percent the same. Joe Biden, and especially Senator Tom Har- Do you believe that? Do you believe that kin, who has been America’s leading advo- all God’s children got wings? Then you have cate for the world’s laboring children. I also to believe that all God’s children can fly. want to make note of the special efforts of Thank you very much. the U.S. representatives to the ILO: John Sweeney of the AFL–CIO, Thomas Niles of NOTE: The President spoke at 5:45 p.m. in the the United States Council for International gymnasium at Englewood High School. In his re- marks, he referred to Illinois State Treasurer Judy Business, and Labor Secretary Alexis Her- Baar Topinka; Samuel Williams, principal, Engle- man. They worked as a superb team in nego- wood High School; David Shryock, partner, SB tiating a convention that should be widely Partners LP; Jack Greenberg, chief executive offi- ratified throughout the world. Such biparti- cer, McDonald’s Corp.; civil rights activist Jesse san support and the coordinated efforts of Jackson; National Football League Hall of Fame labor, business, and government are key to member Walter Payton, who died of cancer on building a new consensus on our approach November 1; Mayor Richard M. Daley of Chi- to international economic policy. cago; and Edward M. Liddy, chief executive offi- cer, Allstate Insurance Co. This item was not re- ceived in time for publication in the appropriate NOTE: This item was not received in time for pub- issue. lication in the appropriate issue.

Statement on Senate Ratification of Interview With Maria Elvira Salazar the Convention on the Elimination of of Telemundo Noticiero in Hartford, the Worst Forms of Child Labor Connecticut November 5, 1999 November 4, 1999 I am pleased that the Senate has given its consent to ratification of the Convention on Enforcement of Gun Control Laws the Elimination of the Worst Forms of Child Ms. Salazar. Before we talk about your Labor. In June I traveled to Geneva for the visit here to Hartford, the head of the NRA, annual meeting of the International Labor Charlton Heston, said that the White House Organization (ILO), where the business, and the Justice Department lack the spine labor, and government representatives to the to enforce the existing gun control laws. How ILO from countries around the world unani- do you respond to this? mously adopted this historic convention. The President. Well, first of all, let me With this action, the Senate has declared say what the substance of his claim is. They on behalf of the American people that we say that we are bringing fewer criminal pros- simply will not tolerate the worst forms of ecutions in the Federal courts for violations child labor: child slavery, the sale or traffick- of the gun laws than were being brought a ing of children, child prostitution or pornog- few years ago. The truth is that prosecutions raphy, forced or compulsory child labor, and for violations of the gun laws are increasing hazardous work that harms the health, safety, in America. But we have a partnership be- and morals of children. With this action, the tween the Federal prosecutors and the State United States continues as world leader in prosecutors. And more of the minor cases the fight to eliminate exploitative and abusive are being brought at the State level now, and child labor. This also is another important the major multistate cases are being brought step forward in our continuing efforts to put at the Federal level. So it is simply not true a human face on the global economy. that the gun laws are not being enforced. 2276 Nov. 5 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

But let me say, the more important thing For example, if—let’s just take a poor is—why is Charlton Heston saying this? Be- neighborhood in Houston or San Antonio or cause he doesn’t want us to do background even here in Hartford, where there’s a very checks when people buy guns at gun shows large Hispanic population. Let’s suppose that or at urban flea markets. He didn’t want us we wanted to have a $150 million investment. to do background checks when people Under this proposal, if my bills were to be- bought handguns in gun stores, and they said come law, they could put $50 million in eq- it wouldn’t do any good. But we know that uity, and they would get a 25 percent tax 400,000 people, because of a criminal back- credit. They could borrow $100 million and ground, couldn’t buy guns under the Brady have it under a Federal loan guarantee, bill. We know we’ve got the lowest crime rate which would dramatically lower the interest and the lowest murder rate in 30 years. So rate. So you would say, okay, you’re taking he’s just wrong about it. a little bit of a risk investing in a poor area, We also know that America is still a coun- but we will cut the risk way, way down. try that’s too dangerous, because we’re the only country in the world that still doesn’t Plight of Hispanic-Americans have enough sensible restraints on keeping guns out of the hands of criminals and chil- Ms. Salazar. Beautiful. There are 30 mil- dren. So I disagree. lion Hispanics in the United States and counting. Yet a disproportionate number live New Markets Initiative in poverty, do not have health care, and can’t Ms. Salazar. Okay. Let’s talk about, now, get a job. Why has the American dream elud- your visit to Hartford. Tell us why this new ed them? markets initiative is so important to you. The President. Well, let me start with the The President. It’s important to me be- positives. We also have more successful His- cause even though we have the longest panics in America than ever before—more peacetime economic expansion in history, people like you and the people that work for over 19 million new jobs, highest home- Telemundo. We have the lowest unemploy- ownership ever, lowest unemployment rate ment rate we have ever recorded, and we in 29 years, the lowest welfare rolls in 30 started keeping separate Latino unemploy- years, the lowest poverty rates in 20 years, ment rates in the early seventies. the lowest Hispanic- and African-American Now, why is it still a problem? Number unemployment rates we have ever re- one, a lot of the Hispanic population of corded—in spite of all that, there are still America are recent immigrants. Recent im- all these people and places that have not felt migrants always have more problems with this recovery, that need investments and health insurance and with employment. They businesses and jobs and hope. And I believe haven’t very often mastered English; they that we need to convince the American busi- often don’t have the right contacts. So part ness community that these are markets to in- of that’s inevitable. vest in. And I think we ought to give them But there are some other things that I’d the same incentives to invest in poor areas like to point out. Because of the family tradi- in America we give them to invest in poor tions that have been so strong in Hispanic areas in Latin America or Africa or Asia. families, very often the children would leave That’s the whole deal, and I think it will school early to go to work. And that worked, work. for generation upon generation of Hispanic Ms. Salazar. And what incentives can you families, the people that had been here for offer them that are not in place right now? 50, 60, 80 years. It doesn’t work anymore The President. We can offer them tax because if you drop out of high school, your credits, and we can offer them loan guaran- chances of getting a good job with a growing tees. And we can offer them modest expendi- income are very, very small. tures of public funds to support these kinds And the biggest separate social problem of investments. They will make a big dif- we have with Hispanics in America today is ference. the dropout rate from school is way too high. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 5 2277

Last year, for the first time ever, the gradua- concerned that they are legitimizing Castro’s tion rates of non-Hispanic whites and Afri- government? can-Americans was almost identical. So the The President. I’m a little concerned black—you know, the message is there. His- about it. I think the important thing is, when panics are still dropping out at a very rapid they go there, I hope that they will reaffirm rate. their support for democracy and for human So we have started this Hispanic education rights and for a transition to democracy and initiative to try to overcome that. But a lot to an open economy in Cuba. of it is culture. We must get the message As you know, most countries don’t agree out that this doesn’t work anymore. It worked with our policy on Cuba. They think that it a long time; it won’t work anymore. You can’t hurts the Cuban people, that it hurts the do it. You’ve got to stay in school. And we American business community, and that it have to try to get more Hispanic young peo- doesn’t speed the transition away from Cas- ple to go on to college. tro because they think we give him an excuse So I think that’s very, very important. I for the failures of the Cuban society—that think that is—there are a lot of other things, he can blame everything on us instead of hav- but that’s—the single most significant thing ing to take responsibility for himself. And, that we can do something about is getting you know, this argument is now occurring people to stay in high school. The fact that more and more among Cuban-Americans of we have so many immigrants, they’ll always all age groups. And so it’s a debate we ought have more problems in the beginning, and to continue to have. we just have to integrate them as quickly as The most important thing for me, though, we can. is, I have—every time I have reached out Ms. Salazar. I think you have answered to Cuba—and I have tried to increase con- my next question, but I want to ask you any- tacts, to make it easier for people in America way, and it has to do with youth. In the barrio to send money home, to have direct tele- in New York City, or in any barrio in the phone service, to have more trips to Cuba United States, there is a 12-year-old boy more accessible for people—and, you know, whose name is Juan Gonzalez, let’s say. His something happens. He puts journalists in parents struggle to make a living and provide jail, or shot the Brothers to the Rescue peo- him with a decent education. What message ple out of the air. And they were—those peo- do you have for him, a kid that was born ple were murdered. It was illegal for them in the United States? to be shot. I don’t care—even if they had The President. My message to him is, if been inside the territorial waters of Cuba, you stay in school and you learn your lessons, which they weren’t, there is a convention no matter how difficult your economic cir- which binds the United States and Cuba cumstances, you can now go on to college which would not have permitted them to be in America. shot down, because they did not present a We have changed the rules in the last 6 threat. So all my efforts to change things have years. If your parents come up with some been met with a rebuff. And it makes me money, they can get a tax credit back for it. wonder whether he really wants this to We have more generous scholarships. We change, because he can always use us as an have more other funds for you to go. You excuse. must stay in school. You can go to college But if the countries want to go there and if you stay in school. And if you do, you can meet, I understand that. If they differ with make the life that you dream of. us on their policy, I respect their right to differ. But I hope when they’re in Cuba, they will make it clear that they’re for democracy Cuba and human rights. Ms. Salazar. Let’s talk a little bit about Ms. Salazar. Have you expressed this to Cuba. The democratically elected leaders of any of the Presidents? 17 Spanish-speaking nations will gather in The President. Absolutely. Yes, I have. I Havana in the next couple of weeks. Are you have said that to every one of them that I 2278 Nov. 5 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 have seen since they made the decision to to the south, if you look at Bolivia, Peru, the go down there. problems they’ve had there, the future of Co- Ms. Salazar. And do you ever foresee nor- lombia is very, very important. And Colombia malized relations with Castro and the United borders Amazonia, and all the problems that States? could be created there. So we should be The President. I think it would be dif- working with them, and we should help ficult for relations to be completely normal. them. I think we could certainly do a lot more for But, you know, if you look at the whole— food, for medicine, in other ways, if the cir- also the history of America’s involvement in cumstances were right. And I think that if Latin America, if we were to become directly there were a clear commitment to a transi- involved, I think it would ensure a disastrous tion to democracy and human rights, which result for the Colombian Government, and were clear and verifiable, I think that you people would accuse us of being imperialists could see some really dramatic changes. I in some way. I have worked very hard to think—you know, if we could just have a reach out to Latin America in a way that no commitment to have no more shootings, like other American President has, at least since the shootings of the airplanes, and to have President Kennedy, to be a friend, to be a no more clear oppressings of human rights, partner, to be supportive, and not to be a it would be easier. dictator, not to be an imperialist, not to be I think the American people would like abusive in our relationship. to be reconciled with the Cuban people. And So I’m going to keep trying to help Colom- I think we are—it is painful. It’s painful most bia. But I don’t think we should be drawn of all, I think, for the Cuban-Americans. directly into their conflict, because I think Mr. Salazar. Definitely. I come from that it would boomerang. I don’t think it would group. They tell me two more questions. I work, and I think it would actually hurt the need to do Colombia, and I need to do cause of freedom and the integrity of govern- Vieques. I need to do two more. ments in Latin America. The President. Yes, you do them. You do need to do those. Vieques Island Ms. Salazar. Vieques, sir. The U.S.S. Ei- Colombia senhower is scheduled to begin exercises De- Ms. Salazar. Okay. Yes, I do. Colombia— cember 1st off the coast of Puerto Rico in Washington is debating billions of dollars in Vieques. Will you approve the use of live aid to that country. Serious problem. Do you fire? foresee, or could the United States be The President. Before that happens, I dragged into the civil war that they are living? hope and believe there’s a chance that we The President. Well, first of all, let me will reach an accommodation between the say we already give a lot of aid to Colombia. Navy and the Government and the rep- They are—after Israel and Egypt, Colombia resentatives of Puerto Rico. is the third-biggest recipient of American aid. Let me say, as I’ve said before, I think I am very concerned about the combina- the fact that there was an agreement made tion of the narcotraffickers and the people back in 1983, that then the Navy and the that have been engaged in the civil war down Defense Department regularly and flagrantly there totally destabilizing Colombia. They’ve ignored, treating Puerto Rico as if it were already hurt the economy. They’ve divided still a colony, is really at the root of all this. the society. They’ve weakened the country I think that, as you know, that the Penta- and its government. And it is a big, big coun- gon has a point, in the sense that if you look try, with enormous significance for all of at what we had to do in Kosovo, for example, Latin America. If you look at the Venezuelan or what we had to do earlier in Bosnia, they border, the trouble we’ve seen there, if you need to be able to train. They have to be look at all the problems that could be pre- able to do live-fire training somewhere. They sented with Panama, with the canal going need to be able to fly over water. We also back there, and if you look at all the countries have to do landings. You know, when Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 5 2279 we restored the democratically elected gov- Immigration Policy ernment of Haiti, thank God there was no Ms. Salazar. Two weeks, sir. One more, violence, but there could have been. And we on immigration. Immigration laws have dis- have to practice, you know, how do we ap- rupted the lives, or many people think that proach on the shore? they have disrupted the lives of thousands On the other hand, we don’t want to be of Hispanic families, or they consider that’s in a position of jamming down the throat of the way. Will the issue be resolved before Puerto Rico, and the people and the elected you leave office? officials of Puerto Rico, one bad memory The President. Well, many of the difficul- after another of a longstanding relationship ties have been resolved. We have repealed where we didn’t honor our commitments. almost 100 percent of the cuts that were im- So what Secretary Cohen has tried to do posed in the welfare reform law. And we is take the security report he got saying, you have tried to alleviate some of the very harsh know, we need to use Vieques for 5 more impacts of the law which would require the years—and the reality of the feelings of the return of people who have been here for a people of Puerto Rico and the positions of long time. the leaders—and we’re trying hard to work Ms. Salazar. through both of those in a way that there Who have children who can be an agreement. were born here. I think the most important thing is we get The President. That’s right. And I am now out of this treating Puerto Rico as if it were trying—and also, by Executive order—every- literally, for these purposes, a colony of the thing I could do without an act of Congress, United States. It is not a colony. And if— I believe I have done. So the specific answer you know, I think the Congress should give to your question is, we’ve done a lot. There them an authoritative vote on whether they are still some important things to do. And want to be a State or continue common- I will do my best. I can’t say whether it will wealth status. I mean, the last vote they had be done or not, because some of the things was very close, narrowly for commonwealth, that have to be done require an act of Con- but it wasn’t a sanctioned vote by the Con- gress. And the Congress has actually been gress. pretty helpful to me in this since ’96, in put- So I have done as much as I could to try ting the pieces back together. And I’m doing to restore the integrity of the relationship be- my best to stop any more family disruption. tween the people and the Government of Ms. Salazar. And you are aware of the Puerto Rico and the United States. And so disruptions and the problems? for me, because I’m the Commander in The President. Oh, absolutely. It’s been Chief, and I also have heavy responsibilities terrible problems. And I have tried to mini- to ensure the preparedness and the integrity mize them, and I will continue to work on of our Armed Forces—there’s a reason we it. lost no pilots on Kosovo. It’s because they train hard, and they’re careful. And we try New York Senate Race to save lives. Ms. Salazar. So this is a very difficult decision. But I Well, I was going to ask you believe there is an agreement which can be about who you were going to vote for in Sen- made here, which respects the legitimate in- ate, State Senate of New York, but they won’t terests both of the people of Puerto Rico, let me. particularly those that live on Vieques, and The President. I think you know. I will the national security interests of the Navy. authorize you—— And so they’re trying to get there. And before Ms. Salazar. You live in New York now, I answer the specific questions, I’m going to sir, right? give them a chance to get there. We’ve got The President. I will authorize you to tell about a month, and we’re going to work hard the people who I’ll vote for for Senator in at it. New York. 2280 Nov. 5 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

NOTE: The interview was taped at 7:20 p.m. on improve coordination among the Federal November 4 in the Performance Studio at the Art- Government, State and local law enforce- ists Collective for later broadcast. The transcript ment officials, and our consumer groups. was embargoed for release by the Office of the Citizens also need new tools to take on Press Secretary until 6 p.m. on November 5. In telemarketing fraud and to find out where his remarks, the President referred to actor Charlton Heston, president, National Rifle Asso- to go for help. According to a recent study, ciation; and President Fidel Castro of Cuba. This one out of four Americans said they wouldn’t item was not received in time for publication in know where to turn if they were victimized the appropriate issue. by a telemarketing scam. This is an even greater concern as we enter the holiday sea- son and the chance of becoming a victim of The President’s Radio Address fraud rises. November 6, 1999 That’s why today we’re launching a new nationwide campaign to help consumers fight Good morning. Today I want to talk to you telemarketing ripoffs. It’s called Project about new steps we’re taking to make Amer- kNOw Fraud, and it’s led by the U.S. Postal ica safer for consumers, particularly for older Service, the American Association of Retired Americans. Persons, the Council of Better Business Bu- For 7 years now, we’ve worked hard to reaus, the Department of Justice, the Fed- build safer streets and stronger communities, eral Trade Commission, the National Asso- and our strategy is working. We have the low- ciation of Attorneys General, and the Securi- est crime rate in 30 years. Our Nation is ties and Exchange Commission. safer. But no one really believes America is This campaign will give consumers new re- as safe as it can be. We have to fight all kinds sources to slam the phone on telemarketing of crime at every level. scams. Beginning November 15th, every To many of our most vulnerable citizens, household in America will receive an easy especially our seniors, the greatest threat may to read postcard with commonsense tips and not come from a criminal on the street, but practical guidelines to prevent telemarketing from a scam artist on the phone. Every year, fraud. This is the largest consumer protection illegal telemarketers bilk the American peo- mailing in our history. It will provide infor- ple of an estimated $40 billion, and more mation you can keep by the phone to help than half the victims are over 50 years of age. you distinguish between fraudulent and le- Telemarketing thieves are stealing more gitimate telemarketers. The bottom line is than money; they’re stealing people’s hopes this: You must familiarize yourself with the and dreams and their security. In far too telltale signs of fraud, and don’t give out im- many cases, victims have been robbed of sav- portant personal financial information to an ings they’ve spent a whole lifetime building unknown caller. up. Some have even lost their homes as a We’re also establishing a new toll free result. number that will soon be up and running to Over the years, I’ve taken a number of help people who believe they’ve been the vic- steps to crack down on telemarketing fraud. tims of telemarketing fraud. It will provide I signed into law the toughest criminal pen- links to law enforcement officials who will alties for telemarketing crimes in history. Our be able to share information and track down enforcement efforts have resulted in more patterns of fraud. As many as 11⁄2 million call- than 300 convictions nationwide. But we ers are expected to utilize this new service have to do more. every year. We’ve also created a new website Today I am announcing important new for consumers to receive fraud prevention in- tools to help government, organizations, and formation and even file a complaint on-line. consumers take action. And I’m directing the It can be found at www.consumer.gov. Attorney General to send me a plan to crack With our actions today we’re sending a down on consumer fraud. Specifically, I’m clear message to fraudulent telemarketers: calling on the Justice Department to We’ve got your number, and we won’t let strengthen prevention and enforcement and you off the hook. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 6 2281

As we close out the budget season in Today I announced the ‘‘kNOw Fraud’’ Washington, I urge Congress to send the project, which is a public-private partnership same message, to reject arbitrary, across-the- of the United States Postal Service, the board cuts that will undermine our law en- American Association of Retired Persons, the forcement efforts and instead send me a Council of Better Business Bureaus, the De- budget that will protect our families and our partment of Justice, the Federal Trade Com- communities and advance our values. mission (FTC), the National Association of Let’s all answer the call of the American Attorneys General, and the Securities and people, put partisanship aside, and finish the Exchange Commission (SEC). Even though work we’ve been sent here to do. violent crime rates are at record lows, illegal Thanks for listening. telemarketing fraud costs Americans an esti- mated $40 billion every year. Project ‘‘kNOw NOTE: The address was recorded at 7:15 p.m. on Fraud’’ will help arm consumers with needed November 5 in the Room 137 at Englewood High School in Chicago, IL, for broadcast at 10:06 a.m. information so that they can protect them- on November 6. The transcript was made avail- selves from telemarketing fraud. This initia- able by the Office of the Press Secretary on No- tive shows how Government can serve the vember 5 but was embargoed for release until the public when working in close coordination broadcast. to vigorously enforce consumer protection laws and keep the public informed about new scams and how to avoid them. Memorandum on Protecting Federal agencies such as the FTC and the Consumers From Fraud SEC also have initiated important consumer November 6, 1999 protection initiatives in order to thwart fraud- ulent activities. The FTC’s Consumer Re- Memorandum for the Attorney General sponse Center takes consumer complaints Subject: Protecting Consumers from Fraud and inputs them into a centralized database, My Administration has taken unprece- the Consumer Sentinel, which is available for dented steps to safeguard consumers through use by Federal, State, and local law enforce- vigorous law enforcement and prevention, ment agencies across the country and in Can- but we must continue to do more. For exam- ada. Since its launch, Consumer Sentinel ple, we have announced new initiatives on counts some 214 partner organizations that Internet fraud and identity theft that call on have contributed an estimated 200,000 com- law enforcement to step up their efforts on plaints to the database, allowing law enforce- behalf of consumers. In addition, as part of ment officials to ascertain whether a com- my 21st Century Crime bill, I announced plaint is an isolated incident or part of a wider several new measures that will help protect pattern of activity. Last year, the SEC’s Of- elderly Americans from fraudulent activities. fice of Investor Education and Assistance My crime bill will give the Department of handled more than 60,000 consumer com- Justice new authority to block and terminate plaints and inquiries, many of which dealt telephone service to illegal telemarketers. In with telemarketing or online fraud. In addi- addition, it will give Federal prosecutors new tion, the SEC’s website warns the public tools to protect nursing home residents from about fast-breaking scams and tells consum- abuse and neglect; to fight health care fraud; ers how to investigate investment opportuni- and to safeguard retirement and pension ties. plans. Recognizing the need for closer coordina- Consumers are often unaware of where to tion, earlier this year you directed the Coun- receive assistance. A recent Postal Inspection cil on White Collar Crime to coordinate and Service survey found that 12 percent of re- bolster the consumer protection activities of spondents admitted to being a victim of the Department of Justice, the FTC, the fraud, but that 25 percent of all respondents SEC, the Postal Inspection Service, and oth- did not know where to go for help if they ers. To further these efforts, I direct you to were the victim of telemarketing or mail report back to me within 6 months with a fraud. plan (1) to better prevent consumer fraud 2282 Nov. 6 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 activities and (2) improve coordination lations with Iran have not yet returned to among the Federal Government’s consumer normal, and the process of implementing the protection activities to ensure that each agen- January 19, 1981, agreements with Iran is still cy’s expertise is considered. In creating this underway, the national emergency declared plan, you should consult with all interested on November 14, 1979, must continue in ef- parties, including other Federal agencies and fect beyond November 14, 1999. Therefore, offices, including the FTC and SEC; State in accordance with section 202(d) of the Na- and local law enforcement; and consumer tional Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), agencies and consumers. This plan also I am continuing the national emergency with should build on efforts of the private sector, respect to Iran. This notice shall be pub- including nonprofits, to protect consumers. lished in the Federal Register and transmit- These steps, taken together, will help to ted to the Congress. protect consumers from fraud and also help to save consumers millions of dollars in the William J. Clinton next millennium. The White House, William J. Clinton November 5, 1999.

NOTE: This memorandum was made available by [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, the Office of the Press Secretary on November 8:45 a.m., November 9, 1999] 5 but was embargoed for release until 10:06 a.m. on November 6. An original was not available for NOTE: This notice was released by the Office of verification of the content of this memorandum. the Press Secretary on November 8, and it was published in the Federal Register on November Statement on the Death of Joseph 10. Serna, Jr. November 7, 1999 Message to the Congress on Hillary and I were deeply saddened to Continuation of the National learn of the death of Mayor Joe Serna earlier Emergency With Respect to Iran today. Joe was an extraordinary public serv- November 5, 1999 ant, educator, father, husband, and friend. He was a great leader of Sacramento and a To the Congress of the United States: source of inspiration to the Hispanic commu- Section 202(d) of the National Emer- nity and all Americans. Our Nation has lost gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides for a remarkable man. Our thoughts and prayers the automatic termination of a national emer- are with his family. gency unless, prior to the anniversary date of its declaration, the President publishes in the Federal Register and transmits to the Notice—Continuation of Iran Congress a notice stating that the emergency Emergency is to continue in effect beyond the anniver- November 5, 1999 sary date. In accordance with this provision, I have sent the enclosed notice, stating that On November 14, 1979, by Executive the Iran emergency declared in 1979 is to Order 12170, the President declared a na- continue in effect beyond November 14, tional emergency to deal with the threat to 1999, to the Federal Register for publication. the national security, foreign policy, and Similar notices have been sent annually to economy of the United States constituted by the Congress and published in the Federal the situation in Iran. Notices of the continu- Register since November 12, 1980. The most ation of this national emergency have been recent notice appeared in the Federal Reg- transmitted annually by the President to the ister on November 12, 1998. This emergency Congress and the Federal Register. The most is separate from that declared with respect recent notice appeared in the Federal Reg- to Iran on March 15, 1995, in Executive ister on November 12, 1998. Because our re- Order 12957. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 8 2283

The crisis between the United States and clared in Executive Order 13067 of Novem- Iran that began in 1979 has not been fully ber 3, 1997. resolved. The international tribunal estab- William J. Clinton lished to adjudicate claims of the United States and U.S. nationals against Iran and of The White House, the Iranian government and Iranian nationals November 5, 1999. against the United States continues to func- tion, and normalization of commercial and NOTE: This message was released by the Office diplomatic relations between the United of the Press Secretary on November 8. States and Iran has not been achieved. On March 15, 1995, I declared a separate na- Remarks on Departure for tional emergency with respect to Iran pursu- ant to the International Emergency Eco- Georgetown University and an nomic Powers Act and imposed separate Exchange With Reporters sanctions. By Executive Order 12959 of May November 8, 1999 6, 1995, these sanctions were significantly augmented, and by Executive Order 13059 Budget Negotiations of August 19, 1997, the sanctions imposed The President. Good afternoon. Over the in 1995 were further clarified. In these cir- weekend, we made some progress toward cumstances, I have determined that it is nec- creating a budget that reflects the values of essary to maintain in force the broad authori- the American people, respects the need for ties that are in place by virtue of the Novem- our Government to live within its means, and ber 14, 1979, declaration of emergency, in- looks to our future. I believe we can finish cluding the authority to block certain prop- our work by Wednesday if we put partisan- erty of the Government of Iran, and which ship aside and focus instead on achieving are needed in the process of implementing goals that the vast majority of the American the January 1981 agreements with Iran. people want us to achieve: a better education for our children, safer streets, a clean envi- William J. Clinton ronment, more Americans brought into the The White House, circle of our growing prosperity. November 5, 1999. Improving education is perhaps the great- est domestic challenge our Nation faces. Education is at the heart of this budget de- NOTE: This message was released by the Office bate. Last fall we took an important step to of the Press Secretary on November 8. An original improve learning in the classroom. We was not available for verification of the content reached an agreement with Congress to help of this message. States and school districts begin hiring 100,000 new, highly trained teachers to re- duce class size in the early grades. Message to the Congress The need was obvious. School enrollments Transmitting a Report on the are exploding. Record numbers of teachers National Emergency With Respect are or will soon be at retirement. And the to Sudan research is clear that students do learn more November 5, 1999 in smaller classes with quality teachers. Last week we learned from a new survey To the Congress of the United States: of the Nation’s largest school districts that As required by section 401(c) of the Na- our class size reduction initiative so far has tional Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c) done precisely what it was intended to do. and section 204(c) of the International Emer- It has put more teachers in the classroom gency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), 50 and increased training for those already there U.S.C. 1703(c), I transmit herewith a 6- with a minimum of redtape and bureaucracy. month periodic report on the national emer- Now we have even more new evidence that gency with respect to Sudan that was de- our class size reduction is working. 2284 Nov. 8 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

Today I am releasing a new report from around failing schools or shut them down. the Department of Education. It’s called Working together we can find a way to de- ‘‘Local Success Stories: Reducing Class liver a budget that meets our values. Size.’’ It shows that in just one year, schools We also value the safety of our families, across America have actually hired over so we must extent our successful COPS pro- 29,000 new, highly trained teachers, thanks gram, which has given us already the lowest to our class size reduction initiative. The re- crime rate in 30 years, and now put up to port also shows that in the early grades in 50,000 new community police officers in our those schools, class size has been reduced by neighborhoods with the modern equipment an average of five students per class. Over they need to keep the crime rate coming 1.7 million students are now directly benefit- down. ing from this class size initiative. We must support our lands legacy initia- It shows we are headed in the right direc- tive because we value the environment, to tion, and that’s the good news. But we must set aside precious natural areas for future remember, only a fraction of America’s stu- generations and reject special interest riders dents have been reached. So we must con- that would endanger our environment. tinue down that path, not abandon it. I am Because we value one America with justice committed to providing more teachers and for all, we must pass strong hate crimes legis- better teachers for all our schools. I want to lation. And I would like to say that I want make sure every young student in America to express my personal appreciation to the receives the benefits of more individual at- parents of Matthew Shepard and to the po- tention and a more disciplined learning envi- lice officers who have come with them here ronment in a smaller class size setting. today and have gone to Capitol Hill to lobby Now, last fall congressional Republicans for the hate crimes legislation. agreed to support this initiative. Indeed, it We value our national security and our was election season, and they even went leadership in the world. Therefore, we have home and campaigned on it. It was a good to pay our dues to the United Nations. We idea then, and it’s still a good idea. But sud- value equal opportunity. And so before Con- denly the Republican majority has mysteri- gress leaves we should tackle one more ur- ously changed its mind. Instead of keeping gent priority: We ought to raise the minimum their commitment to hire more teachers and wage so that more people will participate in reduce class size—again I say, something our prosperity. And we ought to raise the they bragged on and ran on last year—now minimum wage without holding it hostage to they want an open-ended block grant which special interest tax cuts that are not paid for could even be used for vouchers for private and don’t address national needs. schools. I think that is wrong. We can do all this, and we can do it and Nine out of 10 students in our country at- pay for it, not spend the Social Security Trust tend public schools. The percentage of the Fund and continue to pay down the debt so funding coming from the Federal Govern- that in 15 years we’ll be debt-free for the ment is already too meager, in my judgment. first time since 1835. I urge Congress to con- Therefore, our taxpayer money should go for tinue to work with me in a bipartisan fashion more teachers and smaller classes in our pub- to finish the job the American people sent lic schools, not for vouchers for private us here to do. schools. Thank you. I am absolutely committed to keeping the promise that I made, and the promise that Congress made, to reduce class size with Reduction of Class Size more quality teachers in the early grades. We Q. Mr. President, on the issue of funding need to work together to find a way to keep for teachers, sir, you resent it when Congress that promise. tells you to spend money in ways in which We also must demand more accountability you do not deem appropriate. Why should for results, so I call on Congress to pass our a State Governor, who would like to spend plan to help States and schools districts turn that money differently, feel any differently? Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 8 2285

The President. Well, because it’s not their China and the World Trade Organization money. If they don’t want the money, they Q. Mr. President, do you expect China to don’t have to take it. If they’re offended by get into the World Trade Organization this it, they can give it to other States and other time around? school districts. The President. I don’t know, but I hope Look, we have—the difference is, we are so. Ambassador Barshefsky and Mr. Sperling acting on evidence, based on what the local have gone over there to work on it, and we’re school districts tell us and what we know. doing our best. We have a record number of schoolchildren; Q. Are things looking better? we have a record number of teachers starting The President. Well, I don’t know yet. to retire. We have mountain upon mountain Let’s not characterize the in-between until of evidence that smaller classes in the early we see whether we can produce the product. grades lead to permanent learning gains if the teachers are well-qualified. Budget Negotiations And Congress agreed with that last year. I’d like to see them answer instead why Q. Mr. President,—[inaudible]—real they’re ready so—excuse me, so willing to sticking point—— abandon something they campaigned on and The President. Obviously, we have a big asked people to vote for them for doing just difference of opinion on education, and I feel a year ago. very strongly about it. The education com- This is the right thing to do. It’s good edu- munity and the country feel strongly about cational policy. And let me remind you that it. And the Democrats in Congress feel the teachers have supported this; the edu- strongly about it. And the Republicans felt cators have supported this; and the evidence strongly about it when they were facing an supports this. That’s why I’m for it. election, and I think it’s wrong for them to Q. Mr. President, do you expect China to abandon a commitment the next year that get into the—— they were proud of in an election year. So Q. The Department of Labor—— I hope we can work that out. The President. One at a time, sorry. But the other issues I mentioned are all important to me, as well. Can we do it all Unemployment Insurance by Wednesday? In a heartbeat, if we decide to get together. We resolved very quickly Q. The Department of Labor, at your di- many of our differences over the foreign op- rection, is drafting regulations to change the erations bill, and we can do that on these use of unemployment insurance so that it other bills if we really work at it. could be used for family leave purposes. Op- ponents of this idea say you don’t have the Mexican Presidential Primary authority to do this, that any such change should be done by Federal legislation. How Q. Mr. President, Mexico has held its first do you respond to that? Presidential primary. The PRI has governed The President. Well, I was informed that Mexico for over 70 years. What do you think we did have the authority to do it in the nar- about it, the primary yesterday? row way that we’re doing it. And I think if The President. I think it’s a good thing you want more information on what the argu- that they held a primary, and I think the ments are, you will have to talk to either the more democracy they embrace, the better. Labor Department Counsel or the appro- So I would applaud them and congratulate priate people at the White House. But I obvi- them for having done so. And particularly, ously would not have done it if I hadn’t been I would like to congratulate President told that we had the authority to do it. Zedillo, who took the initiative to promote Helen [Helen Thomas, United Press this primary and to open up the political International]. process in his country. 2286 Nov. 8 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

Situation in Pakistan young students who are here—in many ways, Q. Mr. President, how would you charac- this day is especially for you. terize the situation in Pakistan differently I too want to say a special word of thanks than George W. Bush did this last week? to Prime Minister Zeman of the Czech Re- The President. Oh, I—look. I don’t want public and Prime Minister Dzurinda of Slo- to get into that. You all can handle the Presi- vakia. They have come a long way to be with dential campaign without me. You know that us today. They have come a long way with I’m very concerned about the interruption their people in the last decade, from dictator- of civilian leadership in Pakistan. We would ship to democracy, from command and con- like to see a stronger democratic system trol to market economies, from isolation to there, not the abandonment of the system integration with Europe and the rest of the that they did have. And we are—we have world. It has been a remarkable journey. You communicated that to General Musharraf and your people have made the most of the and to the others, and we will continue to triumph of freedom after the cold war. We work with them and hope that we can thank you for your example and for your achieve some progress there. leadership and your friendship, and we wel- And I also want to encourage them to con- come you. Thank you. tinue to work to diminish tensions with India Today we celebrate one of history’s most and to resolve matters in Kashmir, not to remarkable triumphs of human freedom, the continue to use that, as has been done in anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, times past, to inflame tension on both sides surely one of the happiest and most impor- of the line of control, and in both countries. tant days of the 20th century. Those countries need to be working on their For the young people, the undergraduates long-term challenges and their common in- who are here who were, at that time, 9 or terests. And so I will continue to push for 10 years old, it must be hard to sense the that as well. depth of oppression of the communist sys- Thank you. tem, the sense of danger that gripped Amer- ica and the world. I still remember all of our NOTE: The President spoke at 2:30 p.m. on the air-raid drills when I was in grade school, South Grounds at the White House. In his re- preparing for the nuclear war as if we got marks, he referred to murder victim Matthew in some basement it would be all right. Shepard’s parents, Dennis and Judy; President [Laughter] It, therefore, may be hard to Ernesto Zedillo of Mexico; and Gen. Pervaiz imagine the true sense of exuberance and Musharraf, head of the Pakistani Armed Forces, pride that the free world felt a decade ago. who led a military coup d’etat in Pakistan on Octo- ber 14. So, today, I say to you, it is important to recall the major events of that period, to re- member the role America was privileged to Remarks at Georgetown University play in the victory of freedom in Europe, to November 8, 1999 review what we have done since, to realize the promise of that victory, and most impor- Thank you very much, Secretary Albright, tant of all, to reaffirm our determination to for your introduction and your leadership. finish the job, to complete a Europe whole, From the reception you just received, I free, democratic, and at peace, for the first would say you can come home at any time. time in all of history. But I hope you’ll wait a while longer. Let’s start by looking back a decade ago Thank you, Father O’Donovan, for wel- at Berlin. If the Soviet empire was a prison, coming me back to Georgetown. Dean then Berlin was the place where everyone Gallucci, thank you. Mrs. Quandt, thank you could see the bars and look behind them. so much for this lecture. And to the rep- On one side of the wall lived a free people, resentatives of BMW, members of the diplo- shaping their destiny in the image of their matic community, the many distinguished dreams. On the other lived a people who des- citizens who are here, and to Mr. Billington, perately wanted to be free, that had found Mrs. Graham, and others, and to all the themselves trapped beyond a wall of deadly Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 8 2287 uniformity and daily indignities, in an empire dents then and their determination eventu- that, indeed, could only exist behind a wall, ally to be free. for, ever if an opening appeared, letting ideas They did not accept their fate in Hungary in and people out, the whole structure surely in 1956, or even in St. Petersburg way back would collapse. in 1920, when the sailors who had led the In the end, that is exactly what happened Soviet revolution first rose against their new in the fall of 1989. Poland and Hungary al- oppressors. They did not accept their fate in ready were on the road to democracy. Presi- any Soviet home where the practice of reli- dent Gorbachev of the Soviet Union had gion was preserved, though it was suppressed made clear that Soviet forces would not stand by the state, or in countless acts of resistance in their way. Then Hungary opened its bor- we have never heard of, committed by heroes ders to the West, allowing East Germans to whose names we will never know. escape. Then the dam broke. Berliners took The amazing fact is that all those years of to the street, shouting, ‘‘We are one people.’’ repression simply failed to crush people’s And on November 9th, a decade ago, the wall spirits or their hunger for freedom. Years of was breached. Two weeks later, the Velvet lies just made them want the truth that much Revolution swept Czechoslovakia, started by more. Years of violence just made them want university students, just like the undergradu- peaceful struggle and peaceful politics that ates here, marching through Prague, singing much more. Though denied every oppor- the Czech version of ‘‘We Shall Overcome.’’ tunity to express themselves, when they were Then, in Romania, the dictator Ceausescu, finally able to do it, they did a remarkable fell in the bloody uprising. A little more than job of saying quite clearly what they believed a year later, the Soviet Union itself was no and what they wanted: democratic citizen- more. A democratic Russia was born. ship and the blessings of ordinary life. Those events transformed our world and changed our lives and shaped the future of Of course, their victory also would not the young people in this grand room today. have been possible without the perseverance Yes, the students of our era will still grow of the United States and our allies, standing to live in a world full of danger, but probably, firm against the Iron Curtain and standing and hopefully, they will not have to live in firm with the friends of freedom behind it. fear of a total war in which millions could Fifty years ago, when all this began, it was be killed in a single deadly exchange. Yes, far from certain that we would do that. It America will still bear global responsibilities, took determination: the determination of but we will be able to invest more of our President Truman to break the blockade of wealth in the welfare of our children and the Soviet Union of Berlin, to send aid to more of our energy in peaceful pursuits. Greece and Turkey, to meet aggression in You will compete in a global marketplace, Korea. It took the determination of all his travel to more places than any generation be- successors to ensure that Soviet expansion fore you, share ideas and experiences with went not further than it did. people from every culture, more and more It took vision: the vision of American lead- of whom have embraced and will continue ers who launched the Marshall Plan and to embrace both democracy and free mar- brought Germany into NATO, not just to kets. feed Europe or to defend it but to unify it How did all this happen? Well, mostly it as never before, around freedom and democ- happened because, from the very beginning, racy. It took persistence: the persistence of oppressed people refused to accept their every President, from Eisenhower to Ken- fate; not in Poland in 1981, when Lech nedy to Bush, to pursue policies for four dec- Walesa jumped over the wall at the Gdansk ades until they bore fruit. Shipyard and Solidarity first went on strike, It took resources to bolster our friends and or in Czechoslovakia, during the Prague build a military that adversaries ultimately Spring of 1968. I was there a year and a half knew they could not match. It took faith to later as a young student, and I never will for- believe that we could prevail while avoiding get the look in the eyes of the university stu- both appeasement and war; that our open 2288 Nov. 8 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 society would in time prove stronger than any Most terrible of all have been the wars in closed and fearful society. the former Yugoslavia, which claimed a quar- It took conviction: the conviction of Presi- ter-million lives and pushed millions from dent Reagan, who said so plainly what many their homes. But still, 10 years after the fall people on the other side of the Wall had of the Berlin Wall, most of Europe is unques- trouble understanding, that the Soviet em- tionably better off, as these two leaders so pire was evil and the wall should be torn clearly demonstrate. down; the conviction of President Carter, Democracy has taken root, from Estonia who put us on the side of dissidents and kept in the north to Bulgaria in the south. Some them alive to fight another day. of the most vibrant economies in the world And it took leadership in building alliances now lie east of the old Iron Curtain. Russia and keeping them united in crisis after crisis has withdrawn its troops from Central Eu- and, finally, under President Bush, in manag- rope and the Baltics, accepted the independ- ing skillfully the fall of the Soviet empire and ence of its neighbors and, for all its own the unification of Germany and setting the problems, has not wavered from the path of stage for a Europe whole and free. democracy. This was the situation, the remarkable situ- The armed forces of most every country, ation that I inherited when I took office in from Ukraine to Romania all the way to Cen- 1993. The cold war had been won. But in tral Asia, now actually train with NATO. many ways, Europe was still divided, be- NATO has three new allies, Poland, Hun- tween the haves and have-nots, between the gary, the Czech Republic, three strong de- secure and insecure, between members of mocracies that have stood with us in every NATO and the EU and those who were not crisis, from Iraq to Bosnia to Kosovo. Other members of either body and felt left out in new democracies are eager to join us as well, the cold, between those who had reconciled including Slovakia, and they know our alli- themselves with people of different racial ance is open to all who are ready to meet and religious and ethnic groups within their its obligations. Eleven countries are begin- borders and those who were still torn apart ning a process that will lead them to mem- by those differences. bership in the European Union. And so we set out to do for the Eastern And just as important, because we and our half of Europe what we helped to do for the allies stood up to ethnic cleansing in Bosnia Western half after World War II: to provide and Kosovo, the century is not ending on a investment and aid, to tear down trade bar- note of despair with the knowledge that inno- riers so new democracies could stand on their cent men, women, and children on the door- feet economically; to help them overcome step of NATO can be expelled and killed sim- tensions that had festered under com- ply because of their ethnic heritage and the munism; and to stand up to the forces of ag- way they worship their God. Instead, it ends gression and hate, as we did in the Balkans; with a ringing affirmation of the inherent to expand our institutions, beginning with human dignity of every individual, with our NATO, so that a Europe of shared values alliance of 19 democracies strong and united, could become a Europe of shared respon- working with partners across the continent, sibilities and benefits. including Russia, to keep the peace in the Since then, there have unquestionably Balkans, with new hope for a Europe that been some setbacks, some small and some can be, for the first time in history, undi- great. Under communism, most everyone vided, democratic, and at peace. I hope all was equally poor. Now, some people race of you will be proud of what your country ahead while others lag far behind. Former and its allies have achieved, but I hope you dissidents who once struggled for freedom will be even more determined to finish the are now politicians trying to create jobs, to job, for there is still much to be done. fight corruption and crime, to provide basic On Friday, I will leave on a trip to Greece security for people who are simply tired of and Turkey, Italy and Bulgaria. This trip is having to struggle. about reinforcing ties with some of our oldest Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 8 2289 allies, and completing the unfinished busi- I want to say that again—I am convinced ness of building that stable, unified, and that the only way to avoid future Balkan wars democratic Europe. I believe there are three is to integrate the countries of Southeastern principal remaining challenges to that vision Europe more with each other and then more that we must meet across the Atlantic, and with the rest of Europe. We have to create I might say one great challenge we must positive forces that pull the people toward meet at home. unity, which are stronger than the forces of The first is the challenge of building the history pulling them toward division, hatred, right kind of partnership with Russia, a Rus- and death. sia that is stable, democratic, and coopera- We must also push for a democratic transi- tively engaged with the West. That is difficult tion in Serbia. Mr. Milosevic is the last living to do because Russia is struggling economi- relic of the age of European dictators of the cally. It has tens of thousands of weapons Communist era. That era came crashing scientists—listen to this—it has tens of thou- down with the Wall. He sought to preserve sands of weapons scientists making an aver- his dictatorship by substituting Communist age of $100 a month, struggling to maintain totalitarianism with ethnic hatred and the the security of a giant nuclear arsenal. It has kind of mindless unity that follows if you are mired itself again in a cruel cycle of violence bound together by your hatred of people who in Chechnya that is claiming many innocent are different from you. The consequences lives. have been disastrous—not only for the Bosnians and the Kosovars but for the Serbs We should protect our interests with Rus- as well. sia and speak plainly about actions we believe If we are going to make democracy and are wrong. But we should also remember tolerance the order of the day in the Balkans, what Russia is struggling to overcome and so that they, too, can tap into their innate the legacy with which it must deal. Less than intelligence and ingenuity and enjoy prosper- a generation ago, the Russians were living ity and freedom, there can be no future for in a society that had no rule of law, no private him and his policy of manipulating human initiative, no truth-telling, no chance for indi- differences for inhuman ends. viduals to shape their own destiny. Now they A third challenge is perhaps the oldest of live in a country with a free press, with almost them all, and in some ways, perhaps the a million small businesses, a country that hardest: to build a lasting peace in the Ae- should experience next year its first demo- gean Sea region, to achieve a true reconcili- cratic transfer of power in a thousand years. ation between Greece and Turkey, and Russia’s transformation has just begun. It bridge the gulf between Europe and the Is- is incomplete. It is awkward. Sometimes it lamic world. is not pretty, but we have a profound stake When I am in Greece, I’m going to speak in its success. Years from now, I don’t think about the vital role Greece is playing and can we will be criticized, any of us, for doing too play in Europe. The world’s oldest democ- much to help. But we can certainly be criti- racy is a model to the younger democracies cized if we do too little. of the Balkans, a gateway to their markets, A second challenge will be to implement, a force for stability in the region. The one with our allies, a plan for stability in the Bal- thing standing between Greece and its true kans, so that region’s bitter ethnic problems potential is the tension in its relationship with can no longer be exploited by dictators and Turkey. Americans do not have to cross the Atlantic Greece and Turkey, ironically, are both again to fight in another war. We will do that our NATO Allies, and each other’s NATO by strengthening democracies in the region, Allies. They have served together with dis- promoting investment and trade, bringing tinction in the Balkans. Their people helped nations steadily into Western institutions, so each other with great humanity when the ter- they feel a unifying magnet that is more pow- rible earthquakes struck both lands earlier erful than the internal forces that divide this year. This is a problem that can be them. solved. Eventually, it will be solved. And I 2290 Nov. 8 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 intend to see that the United States does ev- In the early 1960’s, we had an economy erything we possibly can to be of help. When that closely approximated this, but we had I go to Turkey, I will point out that much to deal with the challenge of civil rights at of the history of the 20th century, for better home and also the Vietnam war abroad. or worse, was shaped by the way the old Today, we are not burdened by crisis at home Ottoman Empire collapsed before and after or crisis abroad, and the world is out there, World War I, and the decisions that the Eu- looking to see what we are going to do with ropean powers made in the aftermath. the blessings God has bestowed upon us at I believe the coming century will be this moment in time. shaped in good measure by the way in which Everything else I said will either happen Turkey, itself, defines its future and its role or not happen without American involve- today and tomorrow, for Turkey is a country ment unless we make up our minds that we at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, are going to stay with the approach to the and Central Asia. The future can be shaped world that has brought us to this happy point for the better if Turkey can become fully a in human history. That is the most important part of Europe, as a stable, democratic, secu- decision of all. lar, Islamic nation. Now, what are we doing? Well, first, our This too can happen if there is progress military budget is growing again to meet new in overcoming differences with Greece, espe- demands. That has to happen. But I want cially over Cyprus, if Turkey continues to to point out to all of you, it is still, in real terms, $110 billion less than it was when the strengthen respect for human rights, and if Berlin Wall fell. Everyone agrees that most there is a real vision on the part of our Euro- of that money should be reinvested here at pean allies, who must be willing to reach out home. But don’t you think just a small part and to believe that it is at Turkey where Eu- of the peace dividend should be invested in rope and the Muslim world can meet in maintaining the peace we secured and meet- peace and harmony, to give us a chance to ing the unmet challenges of the 21st century? have the future of our dreams in that part Look at all the money we spent at such of the world in the new millennium. great cost over the last 50 years. The amazing Now the last challenge is one we can only fact is we are not spending a penny more meet here at home. We have to decide, quite today to advance our interest in the spread simply, to maintain the tradition of American of peace, democracy, and free markets than leadership and engagement in the world that we did during the 1980’s. Indeed, we are played such a critical role in winning the cold spending $4 billion less each year. war and in helping us to win the peace over I think it’s worth devoting some small frac- this last decade. tion of this Nation’s great wealth and power Think about it: We spent trillions of dollars to help build a Europe where wars don’t hap- in the cold war to defeat a single threat to pen, where our allies can do their share and our way of life. Now we are at the height we help them to do so; to seize this historic of our power and prosperity. Let me just ask opportunity for peace between Arabs and you to focus on this and measure where we Israelis in the Middle East; to make sure that are as against what has been happening in nuclear weapons from the former Soviet the debate about maintaining our leadership. Union don’t fall into the wrong hands; to We have the lowest unemployment rate in make sure that the nuclear scientists have this country in 30 years, the lowest welfare enough money to live on and to feed their rolls in 30 years, the lowest crime rates in families by doing constructive, positive things 30 years, the lowest poverty rates in 20 years, so they’re not vulnerable to the entreaties of the first back-to-back budget surpluses in 42 the remaining forces of destruction in the years, and the smallest Federal Government world; to relieve the debts of the most impov- in 37 years. In my lifetime, we have never erished countries on Earth, so they can grow had—ever—as a people, the opportunity we their economies, build their democracies, now have to build the future of our dreams and be good, positive partners with us in the for our children. new century; and to meet our obligations to Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 8 2291 and through the United Nations, so that we framework agreement. We have to secure the can share the burden of leadership with oth- peace in the Balkans. We have to ease ten- ers, when it obviously has such good results. sions between India and Pakistan. We have I think most Americans agree with this. to help Russia to stabilize its economy, re- But some disagree, and it appears they are solve the conflict in Chechnya, and cheer disproportionately represented—[laugh- them on as they have their first democratic ter]—in the deciding body. Some believe transfer of power, ever. America can and should go it alone, either We have to bring China into the World withdrawing from the world and relying pri- Trade Organization, while continuing to marily on our military strength or by seeking speak plainly about human rights and reli- to impose our will when things are happening gious freedom. We have to launch a new that don’t suit us. global trade round, enact the African and Well, I have taken the stand for a different Caribbean trade bills, press ahead with debt sort of approach—for a foreign affairs budget relief, support the hopeful transitions to de- that will permit us to advance our most criti- mocracy in Nigeria and Indonesia, help Co- cal priorities around the world. That’s why lombia defeat the narcotraffickers, contain I vetoed the first bill that reached my desk, Iraq, and restrain North Korea’s missile pro- why I’m pleased that Democrats and Repub- gram. We have to continue to do more to licans in Congress worked together last week fight terrorism around the world. And we on a strong compromise that meets many of must do what is necessary—and for the our goals. But we’re not finished yet. We still young people here, I predict for 20 years this must work to get funding for our United Na- will become a national security issue—we tions obligations and authorization to allow have to do more to reverse the very real phe- the use of IMF resources for debt relief. nomenon of global warming and climate This is a big issue. It has captured public change. attention as never before. I mean, just think To meet those challenges and more, we about it: This initiative for debt relief for the simply must hold on to the qualities that sus- millennium is being headlined by the Pope tained us throughout the long cold war, the and Bono, the lead singer for U2. [Laughter] wisdom to see that America benefits when That is a very broad base of support for this the rest of the world is moving toward free- initiative. [Laughter] Most of the rest of us dom and prosperity, to recognize that if we can be found somewhere in between that— wait until problems come home to America our pole-star leaders there. before we act, they will come home to Amer- But it’s not just a political issue. It is the ica. smart thing to do. If you go to Africa, you We need the determination to stand up see what competent countries can do to get to the enemies of peace, whether tyrants like the AIDS rate down, to build democratic Milosevic or terrorists like those who at- structures, to build successful economies and tacked our Embassies in Africa. We need grow. But we have to give them a chance. faith in our own capacity to do what is right, And the same is true in Latin America, in even when it’s hard, whether that means the Caribbean, in other places. This is a big building peace in the Middle East or democ- issue. racy in Russia or a constructive partnership I hope the bipartisan agreement we with China. We need the patience to stick reached over the weekend on the foreign af- with those efforts for as long as it takes and fairs budget is a good sign that we are now the resources to see them through. And most moving to reestablish and preserve the bipar- of all, we need to maintain the will to lead, tisan center that believes in America’s role to provide the kind of American leadership in the new post-cold-war world. that for 50 years has brought friends and al- In the coming year, we have an ambitious lies to our side, while moving mountains agenda that also deserves bipartisan support. around the world. We have about 100 days to meet the ambi- Years from now, I want people to say those tious timetable the leaders of the Middle were the qualities of this generation of Amer- East have set for themselves to achieve a icans. I want them to say that when the cold 2292 Nov. 8 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 war ended, we refused to settle for the easy Mikulas Dzurinda of Slovakia; and President satisfaction of victory, to walk home and let Slobodan Milosevic of the Federal Republic of our European friends go it alone. We did Yugoslavia (Serbia and Montenegro). not allow the larger prize of a safer, better world to slip through our fingers. We stood Proclamation 7248—Veterans Day, and supported the Germans as they bravely 1999 reunified, and supported the Europeans as they built a true union and expanded it. We November 8, 1999 stood against ethnic slaughter and ethnic By the President of the United States cleansing. We stood for the right kind of part- of America nership with Russia. We acted to try to help Christian and Jewish and Muslim people rec- A Proclamation oncile themselves in the Middle East, and Throughout U.S. history, Americans have in the bridge represented by Turkey’s out- kept a special place of honor in their hearts reach to Europe. I want them to say that for our veterans; and for more than 70 years, America followed through, so that we would we have set aside each November 11 to rec- not have to fight again. ognize the men and women who have so val- A few months ago, my family and I went iantly served America. On this day, we re- to a refugee camp full of children from member and pay tribute to the millions of Kosovo. They were chanting their apprecia- patriots whose courage and sacrifice have se- tion to the United States, thanking America cured our freedom—from those who suf- for giving them a chance to reclaim their fered through the harsh winter at Valley lives. It was an incredibly moving event, with Forge to those who preserved our Union on children who have been traumatized far be- the battlefields of Gettysburg to those who yond their ability even to understand what turned back the tide of tyranny and hatred has happened to them but who know they on the beaches of Normandy to those who have been given a chance to go home now. have kept the peace and defended our values Years from now, I believe the young peo- around the globe. ple in this audience will have a chance to Since the first days of our independence, go to Europe time and time again, and you brave Americans have stepped forward to will, doubtless, meet some of those children protect our country and promote our ideals. or maybe some of the young people who ac- Some 48 million men and women from every tually tore down the Berlin Wall or marched corner of our country and from every walk in the Velvet Revolution. They will be older of life have served in our Nation’s Armed then. I hope they will say, ‘‘When I was Forces, and 41 million of them have done young I sang America’s praises with my voice, so under hostile conditions. Their service but I still carry them in my heart.’’ I think often put them in harm’s way, far from home that will be true if America stays true. That and family, and too often it cost them their is what we ought to resolve to do on the anni- lives. versary of this marvelous triumph of free- Time and again, America has called on her dom. men and women in uniform to protect our Thank you very much. national security, to advance our national in- terests, and to preserve our rights and free- NOTE: The President spoke at 3:27 p.m. in Gaston doms. And time and again, our Armed Hall at Georgetown University, as part of the Her- Forces have responded by overcoming bert Quandt Distinguished Lecture series. In his daunting challenges to achieve hard-fought remarks, he referred to Father Leo J. O’Donovan, victories. In battles that would determine our president, and Robert L. Gallucci, dean, School Nation’s destiny, in wars that would decide of Foreign Service, Georgetown University; Jo- hanna Quandt, widow of Herbert Quandt; James the fate of the free world, in peacekeeping H. Billington, Librarian of Congress; Katherine missions that would change forever the lives Graham, chairman of the executive committee, and futures of peoples fighting oppression, the Washington Post; Prime Minister Milos they have persevered in the face of adversity Zeman of the Czech Republic; Prime Minister and have prevailed. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 8 2293

Such victories do not come easily. They President Franklin Roosevelt told our Na- exact a heavy toll in lives cut short, in families tion, ‘‘new conditions impose new require- bereft, in human potential unfulfilled. It is ments on Government and those who con- a toll paid by the 25 million veterans still duct Government.’’ From that simple propo- living among us, who every day carry with sition, Roosevelt shaped the New Deal, them the indelible memories of sacrifices which helped to restore our Nation to pros- made, battles fought, and comrades lost. perity and to define the relationship between To pay tribute to those who have served the American people and their Government in our Armed Forces, the Congress has pro- for 50 years. vided (5 U.S.C. 6103(a)) that November 11 Now, as we move into the information age, of each year shall be set aside as a legal public we have reclaimed that true legacy of holiday to honor America’s veterans. For all Franklin Roosevelt by making a real commit- their sacrifices and for the peace, prosperity, ment to bold experimentation, to the idea and liberty their service has secured for us, that new times demand new approaches and our Nation owes our veterans a profound a different kind of Government. debt of gratitude. In commemorating this This evening is a perfect example. As Al solemn day, we express our deep apprecia- said, like FDR’s fireside chats and President tion for the duties they have discharged. Kennedy’s live press conferences on tele- Now, Therefore, I, William J. Clinton, vision, the first Presidential townhall meeting President of the United States of America, on the Internet taps the most modern tech- do hereby proclaim Thursday, November 11, nology for old-fashioned communication be- 1999, as Veterans Day. I urge all Americans tween the American people and their Presi- to honor our veterans through appropriate dent. public ceremonies and private prayers. I call upon Federal, State, and local government Tonight’s event is exciting not only be- officials to display the flag of the United cause of the technology involved in its execu- States and to encourage and participate in tion but, on a larger scale, for the unbridled patriotic activities in their communities. I in- potential it represents. You know, when I be- vite civic and fraternal organizations, places came President, in January of 1993, the of worship, schools, businesses, unions, and Internet was the province of scientists fund- the media to support this national observance ed by Government research projects. Back with suitable commemorative expressions then, there were only 130 sites on the Web, and programs. only 1.3 million computers connected to the In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set Internet. Today, over 56 million computers my hand this eighth day of November, in the are connected to the Internet, and there are year of our Lord nineteen hundred and nine- 3.6 million websites. And we’re adding new ty-nine, and of the Independence of the pages at the rate of over 100,000 an hour. United States of America the two hundred Since 1993, our administration has worked and twenty-fourth. hard to unleash the power of information William J. Clinton technology and to bridge the digital divide. Vice President Gore and I set a goal of con- [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, necting every classroom and library to the 8:45 a.m., November 10, 1999] Internet, and we’ve come a long way. The number of classrooms connected to the NOTE: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on November 12. Internet has increased from 4 percent in 1994 to 51 percent in 1998 with the E-rate providing over $2 billion to help connect all Remarks in an On-Line Townhall our schools and libraries to the Internet. Meeting That’s just the kind of thing Vice President November 8, 1999 Gore and I came to office to do, to replace outmoded and failed ideas of the past with The President. More than 60 years ago, a new vision for the role of Government in at the dawn of another era of great change, the 21st century. 2294 Nov. 8 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

In the early 1990’s, long-neglected eco- Because of our commitment to Third Way nomic and social problems had piled up. Un- principles and the hard work of the American employment and welfare were high. Crime people, our country has made a dramatic was spiraling; virtually no one believed it transformation. Over the last 61⁄2 years, the could be stopped. Poverty was growing. The American people have created almost 20 mil- real wages of working families were steadily lion new jobs with rising wages, the longest falling. There were deficits as far as the eye peacetime expansion in history, the highest could see. Our debt had quadrupled in just homeownership ever, a 30-year low in unem- 12 years, and some experts were telling us ployment, a 32-year low in welfare, a 30-year that we couldn’t really solve our problems, low in the crime rate, the first back-to-back that Government at best was useless and at balanced budgets in 42 years with growing worst was the source of all of our problems. projected surpluses for years to come. And Now, for too long, I felt that both our par- all of this while we were shrinking and rein- ties had put ideology above ideas that actually venting the Government so that it is now the worked. And the American people too often smallest it’s been since John Kennedy was were presented by Washington with false here in the White House in 1962. choices, choosing between work and family, And I’m trying to continue that process between growing the economy and cleaning by passing a budget that honors our values up the environment, between helping busi- and our commitment in the future, with ness and helping working people, between 100,000 new teachers for smaller classes, being safer or maintaining freedom, between 50,000 new community police officers to what makes us different as a people and what keep the crime rate coming down, stronger efforts to protect and preserve our environ- makes us equal before the law and in the ment and to meet our responsibilities abroad. eyes of God. For too long Government The world is starting to take notice of seemed to either try to solve all of our prob- what’s happening here and where we’re lems or to use the failures of Government headed. Now Third Way ideas are influenc- as an excuse to do nothing at all. ing governance in Great Britain, France, Now, it was in this environment that the Germany, Italy, and Brazil, to name just a New Democratic movement, which had been few. developing for nearly a decade by 1992, or In closing, let me say that now we have what has now become known as the Third to use the progress we’ve made and the new Way, began in earnest. We believe, like tools of Government and technology at our Franklin Roosevelt and Theodore Roosevelt fingertips to meet the big challenges of the and Woodrow Wilson and Abraham Lincoln 21st century: the aging of America; the larg- before him, that new conditions demand a est and most diverse group of schoolchildren new approach to Government. We said, in we’ve ever known; extending our prosperity 1992, we want opportunity for all, but we to people in places who haven’t felt it yet; also want responsibility from all our citizens, genuinely meeting the challenges of the new in a community of all Americans. environment; making the most of bio- It was clear to Vice President Gore and technology; getting this country out of debt to me that we couldn’t meet the challenges for the first time since 1835; and continuing of our new century by returning to the past to be the world’s major force for peace and but that we also had to overcome the great freedom and against technology that pro- neglect of the 1980’s. We also knew that we liferates nuclear weapons and biological and needed a new kind of Government which fo- chemical weapons and against terrorism. cused not on neglect or solving all the prob- But more important than any of that, we lems, but instead on giving our citizens the have to find a way in this most modern of tools and conditions they needed to make the worlds to use our new knowledge and our most of their own lives. And at the same time new technology as forces for unity, not divi- we had to challenge our own citizens to take sion. We have to usher in a new age of genu- a far more active role by serving in our com- ine enlightenment where we are coming to- munities and shaping our Nation’s future. gether as a people across all the lines that Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 8 2295 divide us. That’s why I’ve worked for things with it this year. I certainly hope they’ll deal like the ‘‘Employment Non-Discrimination with it next year. And maybe the fact it’s an Act’’ and the hate crimes legislation; why I’ve election year will make them more interested done as much as I could to end wars and in doing so. killing and conflict based on religious or ra- cial or ethnic hatred around the world, from Health Care Reform the Balkans to the Middle East to Northern Q. What else can you do in your Presi- Ireland to Africa. dential term to help the common people to We believe that this can be a unifying age. have health care reform before you leave of- We can celebrate our diversity, all the dif- fice? ferences. We can respect those genuine dif- The President. Well, let me just mention ferences of opinion as long as we understand two things very quickly. First, we ought to that what unites us, our common humanity, pass the Patients’ Bill of Rights to protect is the most important thing of all. people who are in HMO’s with the quality Now I’d like to turn it back to Al and get of their health care, the right to see a special- on with the questions. ist, the right to the nearest emergency room. [Al From, president, Democratic Leadership And we ought to have privacy in medical Council, and host, began the townhall discus- records. We ought to have a requirement sion.] that—and I think we’ll get this, by the way— that people who are disabled who get Medic- Prescription Medication aid can go to work and not lose their Govern- Q. My wife and I are both disabled, with ment health insurance. And we now have the two teenaged children. Our medication ex- funds available to sign up 5 million or more penses take a very large amount of our children of lower income working people, monthly Social Security income. Will Medi- working families, on health care. We ought care ever pay for medications? to try to do that. The President. Well, the answer to that Now one other thing we can do is to get is, I certainly hope so, and I have proposed more States to try to let more and more it. working families buy into the Medicaid sys- As a part of our reform of the Medicare tem. Tennessee was the first State to do this, system, to deal with the fact that we’re going and they immediately got up over 90 percent to double the number of people over 65 with- of their people with health insurance. And in 30 years and increasing numbers of people we’re working to try to persuade more States with disabilities will have access to Medicare, to do this. Then we can provide the Medicaid I recommended a lot of changes that will ac- money, and you can work out, State-by-State, tually save some money in the system but how much people pay for the premiums. also providing a prescription drug option Those are just some of the things that I which would be completely voluntary. think we can do in my term. Now in the com- Three-quarters of the disabled and seniors ing election season, I hope all the candidates on Medicare don’t have access to an afford- will be required to talk about this because, able, adequate prescription drug program. If as you know, I think it’s terrible that America we were designing the program again today, has so many people without health insurance given the role that prescription medication who are working for a living. And I said back has in our lives now, as compared with 34 in ’94 that if we didn’t do something about years ago when Medicare was established, we it, the number would only increase, and that’s would certainly not even set it up without exactly what’s happened. prescription medication. So there are some things we can do now. We should do it. We should do it as quickly Some things you’ll probably have to debate as possible. And we can afford to do it in in the 2000 election. the budget that I presented and still get the country out of debt in 15 years. Funding Higher Education So I hope that next year—Congress is— Q. How do you feel about the need for the Republican majority has refused to deal less expensive higher education? 2296 Nov. 8 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

The President. Well, you’ve got to be for that people who buy handguns, at least, have that. I mean, everybody’s for less expensive to get a license like you get a driver’s license, higher education. But what I’d like to empha- to show that you know how to use the gun size is what we have done, because I think safely and that your background’s been that a lot of Americans do not know that in checked. And I think there’s some real merit the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, we created to that, and that’s something the American something called the HOPE scholarship, people are going to have a chance to be heard which is a $1,500 tax credit for the first 2 on. years of college. We also have more generous But we’ve got the lowest crime rate in 30 Pell grants; we have better student loan pro- years. But we ought not to quit until we’re grams. You can now borrow money through the safest big country in the world. And we a Government loan program and pay it back won’t be until we have reasonable restrictions at lower interest rates and as a percentage to keep guns out of the wrong hands. They of your income, no matter how much you don’t interfere with hunting or sport shoot- borrow. ing. And there’s more we can do. I’m strongly So college is, as a practical matter, less ex- committed to it, and I hope you will be, too. pensive than it has been in many, many years because of the assistance programs that are Funding for Research and Development out there. And I would urge you to look and Q. Where do you see the Federal Govern- make sure you know about every single one ment’s role heading in funding non-defense for which you might be eligible. research in science and technology? [The discussion continued.] The President. Well, most of that is done at the National Institutes of Health, at the Gun Control Legislation Energy Department. It’s done in universities Q. What kind of laws would you like to through Federal grants. And I believe we see Congress pass concerning gun control? ought to see a dramatic increase of that. The President. Well, first, Greg, let me Essentially, if you look at the last few years, say that one of the first laws I signed in 1993 Congress has been good about increasing was the Brady law, which requires back- funding for NIH, not so good about increas- ground checks for people who buy guns in ing funding for environmental research and gun stores. The NRA and the others who op- other non-defense areas. So good on the posed this said it wouldn’t do any good, but health care, not so good on the rest. We need now, in 1999, we’ve had 400,000 people who more on the rest. haven’t been able to get guns because of their criminal records or other problems. And the [The discussion continued.] murder rate’s at a 31-year low. So what else would I like to see? I would The Digital Divide like to see us close the loophole in the back- Q. As Government makes it services avail- ground check law by saying there will also able via the Internet, how will this affect peo- be background checks for guns sold at gun ple who are not computer literate or con- shows and at flea markets. I would like to nected? Will the non-techies be accommo- see more done to limit the importation of dated? big ammunition clips, because we banned as- The President. First of all, this is a good sault weapons, but there are still loopholes question because this illustrates the problem in that law. I think the Brady law ought to of the so-called digital divide. And the answer be extended to juveniles who commit serious to your question is: Number one, we will con- offenses. I don’t think they ought to be able tinue to provide services in non-computer to get handguns. And I think these are very options; and number two, we’ll continue to important. do things to bridge the digital divide. We’re Now, you may know that in the Presi- trying to hook up all the classrooms and li- dential election, I think both the Democratic braries to the Internet by the year 2000. We Presidential candidates, Vice President Gore have community computer centers that we and Senator Bradley, have recommended are establishing around the country, where Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 8 2297 we’re trying to make access to computers teachers in our schools, concentrated on re- more universal. ducing class size in the early grades, because But I will say this: I think we should also we know from lots of research that that in- be trying to get people who aren’t computer creases educational achievement long term. literate to be computer literate and then to This year Congress is seeking to reverse that have access to the technology, because I be- commitment, for reasons I do not entirely lieve if we have the same density of computer understand. And I am fighting to keep it, and Internet access that we have of tele- along with the Democrats in our caucus in phone access, that would dramatically im- the House and Senate. I’m hoping that we’ll prove the economic prospects for a lot of have a successful resolution of this. Americans and, I might add, a lot of people But you should know that—maybe you do around the world. know, since you asked the question—We So we have to keep providing the services have the largest number of schoolchildren in in non-Internet, non-computer ways. But I our history, the first group bigger than the think we also ought to try to get more people baby boomers, over the last 2 years. It’s the hooked up. And we’re doing both. most diverse group in our history. And about [The discussion continued.] 2 million teachers are going to retire over the next few years. So it’s important right The President. Let me just make one now to get these teachers in there that are other point before we go on to another ques- well-trained and to get them in the early tion, to go back to my point that we ought grades. to try not only to provide the services for Now there’s a lot of flexibility in this pro- people who aren’t computer literate or con- gram. So, if class size is already small, this nected in ways they can access—of course, money can be used to retrain teachers, to we have to do that—but why we should try upgrade their skills, and other things. But the to get more people connected and more peo- most important thing that we can do to re- ple computer literate. duce class size is to put 100,000 more teach- I was out in Silicon Valley in the last few ers in the classroom. That’s the main thing weeks where the number of people from I’m fighting for in the remaining budget eBay, which all of you know is a remarkable struggles here in Washington. trading company—I learned that in addition That’s a good question. to the employees of eBay, some 20,000 peo- ple now make a living on eBay just trading. Tax Relief That’s the way they make a living. And a lot Q. I would like to know what programs of them used to be on welfare. So this tech- are going to be cut to provide for some of nology is getting more and more user-friend- the much-needed tax relief, starting with the ly. And I think that if we continue to work marriage penalty. toward making it more and more universal, The President. Well, what you have to do you will create lots of more economic oppor- basically to provide tax relief under our sys- tunities which will be good for the overall tem, the rules that we operate up here, is economy and good for people who, today, to figure out what it costs over 10 years and are kind of non-techies, to use your word. then to slow the rate of growth of other pro- grams. Now, what I did was to present a Class Size budget to the Congress which would allocate, Q. Mr. President, how are you going to as I recall, about $250 billion to tax relief decrease the class sizes with the vast shortage over a decade. And we slowed the rate of of teachers? growth of everything else to accommodate The President. I think the most important that, including defense, where we still were thing that the Federal Government can do going to have real increases. is to give the States the money to continue Congress passed a $792 billion tax pro- our class size initiative. Last year the Con- gram, and I vetoed that because I said we gress approved a proposal of mine to make couldn’t pay for it. And then they proceeded a downpayment on putting 100,000 more to spend more money than I recommended 2298 Nov. 8 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 in this year’s budget—in different ways but Livability Agenda more money. The President. If I could just say, Al, the So the truth is, you don’t have to have any mayor said a lot of good things, but one of big cuts to pay for, let’s say, marriage penalty the things he said that I’d like to highlight relief or something like that, that is clearly is that they’re using computer technology to affordable. All you have to do is to make a help manage traffic patterns and alleviate decision now that you will manage the rate congestion. That is one of the elements in of growth of all the other expenditures to ac- Vice President Gore’s livability agenda we’re commodate the tax relief. trying to pass through Congress, not just pre- And I still think we ought to have modest serving more green space in urban areas but tax relief package. I will try again next to pass actually using the most up-to-date technology one, and I will be flexible in working with to give people some freedom, give them back the Congress on what the contents of the some of their time by minimizing traffic con- package are. But we just have to make sure gestion and waiting. that it’s something we can afford and still pay I mean, it’s becoming a bigger and bigger down the debt, save Social Security and issue for Americans both in their cars on the Medicare, and continue to invest in edu- street and, unfortunately, in their airports cation and the environment and in research and in their airplanes. So I think anything and technology. we can do to give people back time is enhanc- Young People and Politics ing their freedom dramatically. And I think Q. Mr. President, what would you rec- that more and more public officials will have ommend to high school students who want to focus on this. to get involved in the political process? The President. Well, I think I would rec- Y2K Readiness ommend two or three things. First of all, I Q. Mr. President, if you were an ordinary would recommend that you get involved in citizen, would you save a little food for Y2K? the 2000 election. You know, with all the [Laughter] technology and all the television ads and all The President. You know, we’ve had so the money that’s raised and spent in elec- many jokes about that, about taking our tions, candidates still need volunteers. And pickups to Arizona and all. The answer is, I think you ought to pick someone who is no. America is—[laughter]—I wouldn’t, be- running, either for President or Governor or cause I think America is in good shape. We Senator or maybe a local office, maybe mayor have worked very, very hard on this. I want in your hometown, that you believe in and to thank the Vice President and John show up and volunteer and learn everything Koskinen, who’s helped us. I want to thank you can about how the electoral process all the big—the financial institutions, the util- works, what the issues are, and you’ll also ities, the other big sectors in our economy learn about different kinds of people and that have gotten Y2K-ready. human nature. Secondly, I think you ought The only problems left in the United to pick an issue you care about in your school States that we’re aware of are with some of and get involved in that. And then the third our small businesses who basically haven’t yet thing that I would strongly recommend is made sure that they’re Y2K compliant. But that you try to make sure you’re as well- the United States is doing fine, and I informed as possible, by accessing informa- wouldn’t hoard food, and I wouldn’t hide. tion on the Internet or your local newspaper I would be trusting, because I think we’re or however else you want to do it. going to make it fine. But I think that those three things, to- gether, will give you a chance to really get Internet and E-Commerce started. And it’s not too soon for you to get Q. How can citizens be assured that the started, to start working in politics. And I Internet will not become another political thank you for your interest. ploy that is harmed rather than helped by [The discussion continued.] politicians? Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 8 2299

The President. It’s a good question. What have community groups; we have church we’re trying to do, I can tell you, is to protect groups and other religious groups; we have E-commerce, because it’s growing so fast. all kinds of groups who are doing good things And I signed legislation that would prohibit in their community. And in the process, they taxation on Internet transactions for several earn credit for college tuition. years. And I think we need to continue to So many young people actually do it and work. So the first thing you can do as a citizen use the funds they get from working in is to try to protect E-commerce, to let it AmeriCorps over and above their living sti- grow, to let it flourish, to let all the jobs be pend to go on to school. And we’ve had created, the businesses be created, because 150,000 young Americans serve in 6 years. of this incredible thing. To give you some basis for comparison, it Then I think, in terms of objectionable ma- took the Peace Corps 20 years to get 100,000 terial on the Internet, how do you keep the volunteers. freedom and the creativity of the Internet So AmeriCorps is changing America for without having children too exposed? I think the better. I believe it has broad bipartisan the answer to that is to support the efforts support and, therefore, I think future admin- that are being made by many in the industry istrations will be able to continue to support now to give parents appropriate screening it. I would like to see us get up to where and other technologies, so that you continue we have at least 250,000 people a year in to have creativity and growth on the Internet it, because I think you could get that many and parents can still do their jobs. I think people who want to serve. But at least insofar those are the two most important things. as funding become available, I’d like to see [The discussion continued.] it continue to expand. It’s a wonderful, won- derful thing. Presidential Term Limits [The discussion continued.] Q. Mr. President, would you like to serve another term in office, like you can in the The President. Before we go on, I’d just U.K.? Maybe you ought to talk to Tony Blair like to reiterate for the people who are inter- about that. [Laughter] ested in this subject, that thanks to Kathleen The President. Well, I love the job, and Kennedy Townsend, Maryland is the only I would continue to do it if I could. But we’ve State in America which presently requires had a two-term system here ever since Presi- young people to engage in community serv- dent Truman’s time, and I respect it, and ice as a part of their course study. In order I honor it. And so I’ll try to find some way to get a high school diploma, you’ve got to to be useful to my country and to the causes do some community service. Now, some of I believe in around the world when I leave us know of specific schools that require that, the White House. But I love it, and I would but Maryland is the only State that requires not willingly give up any day of the oppor- it. tunity to serve as President. Twelve years ago the former Republican Governor of New Jersey, Tom Kean, and I AmeriCorps were on a middle school study task force for Q. Will future administrations be able to the Carnegie Corporation, and we rec- continue the support for the AmeriCorps ommended that—that community service program? ought to be a requirement, an academic re- The President. You know, for people who quirement. It’s part of learning to be a good are on this hookup who don’t know what citizen. It’s part of an education. And I’d like AmeriCorps is, we ought to say first what to see most States follow Maryland’s lead. it is. It is a national service program of local [The discussion continued.] community efforts so that young people— and sometimes not-so-young people—of all School Safety and Youth Violence ages can give a year and with the option of Q. I attend a public high school. Consider- giving the second year of community service ing the events of the past few years, how can in an AmeriCorps-affiliated program. And we you ensure my safety at school? 2300 Nov. 8 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

The President. Well, first of all, I under- have some new ideas, send them to us, be- stand why you’re concerned about it. We’ve cause there is hardly anything more impor- had all these terrible incidents of school tant in the whole country than giving our shootings. But I think you should know that, children the safety and security that they and on balance, we have the lowest murder rate their families need. in our country in 31 years and that schools So please, we’re still working on this. We are the safest places kids can be. have a highly concentrated effort, and we’d Now what we have to do to ensure that like to have your ideas. all our schools are safe, are, number one, have a strict, zero tolerance for weapons in [The discussion continued.] schools. I’ve announced a zero tolerance for guns policy several years ago out in Califor- Post-Presidential Plans nia. We’re trying to get every school to adopt it. We had several thousand young people Q. Mr. President, what are your plans after who were sent home last year and expelled you leave the White House, beside support- because they brought guns to school. ing the First Lady for a possible Senate run? Number two, we need a system in every The President. Well, I will certainly sup- school that identifies kids who are troubled, port her in any way that I can, and I’m look- who might cause trouble and get some help ing forward to that. But I want to build my before they commit violent acts, whether library and my public policy center at home they’re being reported to the authorities, part in Arkansas. And then I want to be a useful of a peer mediation group, getting mental citizen. I’ll do what I can to support other health or other counseling. I think you have people, if they ask me to, who are running to have a system in which all the kids are for office or when they’re in office. But I involved in trying to identify people who want to use that public policy center and the might be disturbed and might cause these educational programs there to bring in peo- kinds of problems. ple who are interested in public service and And I think, number three, we have to try to advance a lot of these issues I’m interested to make sure that the schools that are in high- in, that I think will have great significance crime areas, that there is adequate security in the future. there. For example, how can you maximize the So there are lots of things that can be use of technology to bring educational oppor- done, but on balance you should not believe tunities to poor people in poor areas in Amer- that you’re in more trouble at school than ica and around the world? How can you grow you are someplace else, because for almost the economy and improve the environment? all of our children, they’re safer at school How can you use new technologies to prove than they would be on their streets or in their that we can clean up the environment, re- neighborhood. duce greenhouse gases, and create more [The discussion continued.] jobs? How can we minimize racial and reli- The President. If I could just say one gious and ethnic and other tensions, both in other thing to Joshua, who asked this ques- our society and around the world? tion, and to others who—particularly young These things, these big issues I’ve worked people who might be listening, there. I had on as President, I want to find a way to con- a White House Conference on Youth Vio- tinue to work on at my library and center lence, and then we set up a national effort in a way that doesn’t get in the way of the on youth violence. If you or anybody else next President. I don’t want to do that, but that’s part of this press conference tonight I do think I can be a good citizen and help have any ideas, I want you to send them in. solve a lot of these problems and continue And I can assure you that we will carefully to move us forward. review them. We will do our best to see Mr. From. Mr. President, do you think whether, if they’re working in someplace, the people who are sending these questions they can be made to work everywhere. If you think we’re humorless? Because they have Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 8 2301 a line on here that says, ‘‘Laughing is per- Class Size mitted.’’ Q. What do you think about the fact that The President. I don’t know what that in other countries, classrooms have many means, but I’ve already been laughing, so more children per teacher, yet they are thank you for permission. I never knew we ranked higher than the U.S. in education? had to give people permission to laugh, but The President. Well, I think you have to, I’m glad to have it. [Laughter] first of all, look at what the differences in Child Care those countries and the United States are. Q. What are you going to do about the Let me also say the United States is doing rising cost of child care? better in these international exams. And The President. Let me say, this is a huge among the schools that have set high stand- issue. If you want to balance work and family ards and measure in tests for them, they’re in America, you have to have adequate family doing quite well, indeed. leave laws, and then affordable quality child But if you look at the countries which can care. And given the fact that most parents have larger classes and have higher achieve- work and the percentage will go up, one of ment levels in the early grades, what you will the most significant issues we have to resolve find is two things. You will find that they are as a people is how to make people successful not as diverse as we are, racially and eth- at the same time at home and at work be- nically and linguistically. And secondly, you cause if you have to choose between one or will find that they don’t have the same in- the other, the country’s going to be badly come and other social variations that you hurt. have in American classrooms. We had a question earlier about an afford- So there is no country in the world with able tax cut. One of the things that I asked anything like the kind of diversity we have the Congress to do was to increase the tax in the classroom, that has much bigger class credit for child care so that we could em- sizes and higher performance. If the kids are brace more people. I’ve also asked the Con- more similar, obviously they would tend to gress to appropriate more money, because have more similar learning patterns, and you right now, we only serve with Federal sub- can do things that sort of routinize the edu- sidies about 10 percent of the working par- cational system more in the early grades. If ents who are eligible for child care help. the kids are vastly dissimilar, in terms of fam- So the answer to your question is, we ily circumstances and, literally, even lan- have—at the national level and at the State guage, you need more individual attention level, we ought to be doing more with both in the early grades. tax credits and with direct subsidies to child And all I can say to you is that—the Amer- care centers to help lower income and mid- ican context, we have lots and lots and lots dle income people who otherwise can’t find of research that well-trained teachers and affordable quality child care. It’s a huge issue smaller classes give not only immediate but out there that I don’t believe has gotten the permanent learning gains. And that’s why I attention it deserves yet. I hope this, too, favor doing that. we’ll make progress on, both next year in Congress and in the Presidential election. I’d [The discussion continued.] like to see it heavily debated. [The discussion continued.] Staying in Touch With the People On-Line Townhall Meeting The President. Mayor, I want to thank you for that. You know, when I came here Q. I commend you, Mr. President, for in 1993, one of the things that I promised using the available new technology to stay myself I would do is to try to keep in touch in touch with the people. It gives anyone the with the American people, to try to avoid get- chance to speak to the President, truly a shin- ting out of touch. And I now, having been ing example of freedom. President for nearly 7 years, I understand [The discussion continued.] why Presidents get out of touch, how easy 2302 Nov. 8 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 it is to happen. And I do think that this tech- tem, and Americans who shouldn’t lose their nology will help more and more Presidents jobs will do so. I don’t think that’s right. to kind of be accountable to the American And so, I believe in open trade, but it people, stay in touch with them, even in ought to be fair. I’ll give you just one exam- those weeks—and sometimes months—when ple. We’ve won two cases in the World Trade they can’t be out of Washington in the States Organization against the Europeans, one on and communities very much because of the beef and one on bananas, and we still can’t workload here. So this is very, very hopeful, get any satisfaction. We won the banana case and I appreciate what you said. three times. So it’s going to be impossible to sustain support for an open trading system Free and Fair Trade if the rules and the rulings are ignored. Q. Do you believe in more open trade be- Now, the second point I want to make is tween our two countries,* or are you and that we have got to put a human face on your party committed to protectionism more the global economy. As we expand trade, or- than open trade? dinary people have to benefit and they have The President. Well, the short answer is, to believe we’re not destroying the environ- I believe in more open trade between our ment. So I have concluded that we should two countries. Our two countries have a huge do more to open up the trading system to bilateral trading relationship—the biggest in labor and environmental groups, let them be the world, and it’s benefited Canada; it’s ben- a part of the development of trading rules efited the United States. Both of us have and regulations, and have certain standards among the highest growth rates in the devel- for the environment and for labor in these oped world now. We’re both doing real well. trade agreements. I think in the end, that’s I would say two things about the trade the best way to do it. issue. First of all, it is true that there are We’ve got to succeed in putting a human still some people in the Democratic Party face on the global economy if you want to who do not believe that we grow the econ- have broadbased support for it. omy and benefit people through expanding The discussion continued. trade. And that is a difference of opinion [ ] we’re still having. I will say this: There is a The President. Let me just follow up on new Democratic majority, a big one, for al- that. When the Asian financial crisis hit in most every other issue on how to manage 1997, we had been increasing our manufac- the economy, the importance of paying off turing employment, including in steel. But the debt, what our education policy ought in the 1980’s and early nineties, we lost 60 to be, what our crime policy ought to be, percent of our employment in steel. Then what our welfare policy ought to be. We we modernized, and we were competitive don’t have, in my judgment, the right consen- globally. And other countries started dump- sus on trade yet, but we’re moving in the ing steel on our markets and throwing people right direction. And let me just give you two out of work who were competitive on the examples, if I might, of what we are con- global economy. In other words, they weren’t cerned about with trade. playing by the rules. First of all, the United States, even though So we had anti-dumping actions, and we we’ve got a budget surplus and we’re paying worked hard to reverse that and to restore down our debt, has, by far, the biggest trade the imports back to their pre-crisis levels. deficit in the world, because we’ve tried to That doesn’t mean I’m against free trade, but keep our markets open. We think they help I had to fight for those jobs. And I can tell us to maintain low inflation and to be sharp you, there are a lot of people out there who and to be competitive. But if the competition don’t think we did enough to do that. is unfair, if countries can do things in our So there will always be difficult questions. markets we can’t do in theirs, then we’re But, on balance, America has 4 percent of going to have a distortion of the trading sys- the world’s people, with 22 percent of the world’s income; we’ve got to sell something * Canada and the United States. to the other 96 percent of the world. And Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 8 2303 you don’t have to be a mathematical genius the peace process in Oslo when we went last to figure out, therefore, we should be in favor week to honor the late Prime Minister Rabin. of expanding trade. And they are now on, literally, about a 100- [The discussion continued.] day timetable to finish a final framework agreement. Seattle WTO Summit and the Now I don’t want to kid you. The issues Environment are very, very tough. But I think the chances Q. During the WTO summit in Seattle this of success are better than 50–50. And with month, will President Clinton propose to a lot of prayers and a lot of pushing, maybe strengthen environmental safeguards? we’ll make it. I feel hopeful. The President. Yes. Yes, and in addition Education On-Line to that, the involvement of environmental groups in the whole World Trade Organiza- Q. How does the President feel about sup- tion process. We’ve got to open this process porting on-line education to serve the in- up. creasing number of students? One of the reasons you’re going to have The President. I’d be for that. And we’ll thousands of demonstrators in Seattle—tell- have more of that anyway. That’s going to ing everybody that this world trading system happen. is some sort of dark conspiracy to destroy You want to take these two and then come the environment and keep down ordinary back? [Laughter] At my age, I’m just glad working families—is that they use funny lan- I can read that. guage, and they have big, secret rules, and National Defense in the New Millennium they meet too much in secret in Switzerland. And I think we’ve got to open this process Q. Taking into consideration the fact that up. This is not complicated. If some people the Chinese have developed an ICBM capa- produce some things better than others and ble of reaching American shores, what is your the more we can work together and lift the position on a missile defense system for the fortunes of people everywhere, the better United States? wealthier countries will do. This is not com- The President. Well, if we can develop plicated. a missile defense that will actually work to But I think it’s very—I’m actually kind of block incoming missiles that could have nu- glad all these demonstrators are coming to clear, chemical, or biological warheads, it Seattle, even though it may be kind of messy, would be irresponsible not to develop it, as- because we ought to have a big global debate suming we can do so consistent with our obli- on this. And the people who feel like they’ve gations under treaty. been shut out ought to be brought in and However, I don’t think the Chinese will listened to, not just the environmentalists but be the biggest problem. China does have 20 the others as well. such missiles; we have 6,000 such missiles. I think the real problem is the danger that Middle East Peace Process in the future, rogue states and terrorist Q. What do you feel are the chances that groups might, themselves, get missile tech- there will be any real progress in the talks nology that could pierce America’s traditional between the Palestinians and the Israelis be- defenses. So we’re working on missile de- fore you leave office? fense, and we’re also working with the Rus- The President. Oh, I think they’re quite sians to see if we can agree to make some good. For one thing, there already has been amendments to the Anti-Ballistic Missile real progress. Keep in mind, it was back in Treaty so that we can put the missile defense 1993 that we signed the Israel-PLO accord. up if we can develop it, and they can share We now have the Palestinians with their land the benefits of it. in the West Bank and in Gaza. There’s a high Now, let me also say to all of you, not to level of security cooperation between the be unnecessarily alarmist, but I think we two. And Prime Minister Barak and Chair- need to be realistic here. I think in the fu- man Arafat reaffirmed their commitment to ture, future Presidents will have to tell you 2304 Nov. 8 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 that we’ll also have to worry about defenses of local school districts and are judged and from miniaturized nuclear, chemical, and bi- stay in business only on their results. ological weapons in the hands of terrorists These, I think, are appropriate roles for who won’t need missiles to try to deliver the Federal Government. They are limited. them. We don’t tell the States how to achieve excel- So it will be a whole new world out there, lence in education. We tell them there ought and there’s a lot of blessings from the end to be standards; here are things that work. of the cold war, but we’ll have to deal with If you want to do these things, we’ll help more and different threats. And I would you fund them. favor doing whatever is responsible to en- hance the national security of the United President’s Legacy States, including deploying the right kind of missile defense system. Q. Mr. President, what kind of legacy do you think the American people will remem- Federal Involvement in Education ber about your administration? Q. Can you explain to me why you feel The President. I think they will see it as the Federal Government needs to get in- a time of dramatic transformation and volved in education and why this can’t be change; where we restored economic pros- left to State and local government? perity; where we widened the circle of op- The President. Well, yes I can. First of portunity to include people who’d been left all, the Federal Government has been in- out; where we deepened the bonds of free- volved in education for over 30 years, now, dom and community in this country, by help- and in very discrete ways—in higher edu- ing to solve social problems and bridge a lot cation, to help more people afford the costs of the divisions in our society; and when we of college, because that’s something most essentially assumed the leadership of the States don’t have massive resources to do; post-cold-war world, whether it’s in expand- in preschool education like Head Start, to ing NATO or fighting against ethnic cleans- help more poor children get started. In pub- ing in the Balkans or working to deal with lic schools, the Federal Government’s role the challenges of terrorism in the 21st cen- traditionally has—first of all, it’s always been tury. So I think it will be seen as a time of less than 10 percent of the total budget of transformation, of hope, of genuine oppor- the public schools. It’s basically designed to tunity, and genuine community in America. give poor children or children whose first lan- So I’m very grateful for the chance I’ve guage is not English or children with special had to serve. And I’m very grateful for the education needs the access to the best pos- results that the approach that Al From and sible education they can have, and then de- I have been working on for 15 years now signed to meet discrete needs, like after has had in the lives of the American people. Sputnik we spent more money to train teach- I think it’s, by and large, a tribute to the pub- ers in math and science. lic and the citizens of this country. But what- So what I have proposed is consistent with ever role I’ve been able to play, I am pro- our historic mission: 100,000 teachers, be- foundly grateful. And I believe that the leg- cause we have more kids and more teachers acy will be transformation, movement, the retiring, and we now have evidence that restoration of prosperity and hope. smaller classes work; a policy to end social [The discussion continued.] promotion but to dramatically increase the number of after-school and summer school The President. Let me say, first of all, I programs and funds to help failing schools want to thank you, Al, again for giving us turn around or shut down; and then a big all this opportunity and for always being a VIP favorite, more charter schools. When I visionary and thinking about the future. I became President, we had one; there are now want to thank the other elected officials who 1,700. We want 3,000 of these schools that have shared this press conference with me are set up and chartered by teachers with tonight, and commend you and those like you parents; that are free of a lot of the redtape who have taken our new Democratic ideas Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 9 2305 and actually used them to change the lives Statement on Signing Legislation To of our people for the better. Locate and Secure the Return of And finally, let me say to all the people Zachary Baumel, a United States who have been a part of this, I’m not running Citizen, and Other Israeli Soldiers for anything anymore. I’m doing this because Missing in Action I believe in the enterprise of Government and in the work and impact of citizenship. November 8, 1999 And if we can use technology to chip away at cynicism and increase participation and Today I have signed into law H.R. 1175, give—empower citizens to feel that they’re ‘‘An Act to locate and secure the return of holding their elected officials accountable Zachary Baumel, a United States citizen, and and they’re helping them to do their jobs, other Israeli soldiers missing in action.’’ I that will be a very great thing, indeed. deeply sympathize with the families of the So I would urge you to keep the E-mails missing soldiers and have made the resolu- coming into the White House, keep the E- tion of these cases a priority throughout my mails coming into the DLC. If you have Administration. The United States remains questions that weren’t answered or ideas you determined to pursue every concrete lead to want to share, keep pouring them in there. ascertain their fate. We will continue to con- But let me tell you something. There’s a sult closely with the families and the Govern- reason this country’s been around here for ment of Israel in our long effort to resolve more than 200 years, and there’s a reason this important issue. We will also continue we’re enjoying this enormous level of eco- to raise this issue with other governments in nomic prosperity with our social conditions our search for answers. improving and our leadership in the world I believe that two sections of the bill must unquestioned. America is a great country be carefully construed to avoid constitutional founded on a great set of ideas, capable of and practical problems. Specifically, section permanent renewal. And the technology of 2(a) of the bill states that ‘‘the Secretary of the moment has made it more exciting than State shall continue to raise the matter of ever before. But it still requires, more than Zachary Baumel, Yehuda Katz, and Zvi anything else, even more than good leaders, Feldman on an urgent basis with appropriate good citizens. government officials’’ of certain foreign gov- Those of you who have been part of this ernments. To the extent that this provision tonight have been good citizens. I thank you, can be read to direct the Secretary of State and I want to urge you on because our coun- to take certain positions in communications try’s best days lie ahead in the new century. with foreign governments, it interferes with my sole constitutional authority over the con- NOTE: The President spoke at 7:14 p.m. in the duct of diplomatic negotiations. Therefore, Marvin Center Auditorium at George Washington this provision will be treated as precatory. University. In his remarks, he referred to John A. Koskinen, Chairman, President’s Council on In addition, section 3 of the bill would re- Year 2000 Conversion; Prime Minister Ehud quire the Secretary of State to report to the Barak of Israel; and Chairman Yasser Arafat of Congress on efforts taken with regard to sec- the Palestinian Authority. In addition to the Presi- tion 2(a) and additional information obtained dent, the Democratic Leadership Council-spon- about the individuals named in section 2(a). sored discussion included the following partici- I sign this bill with the understanding that pants: Marc Andreessen, founder, Netscape; Gov. this section does not detract from my con- Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire; Mayor Don- stitutional authority to withhold information ald Cunningham, Jr., of Bethlehem, PA; Lt. Gov. relating to diplomatic communications or Kathleen Kennedy Townsend of Maryland; and other national security information. Wisconsin State Assemblyman Antonio Riley, chairman, Democratic Leadership Council State Section 3(b) of the bill would require the Legislative Advisory Board. On-line participants Secretary of State to report to the Congress used first names only. A portion of this discussion not later than 15 days after receiving ‘‘any could not be verified because the tape was incom- additional credible information’’ relating to plete. the missing servicemen. Because there could 2306 Nov. 9 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 well be a delay between the receipt of infor- give unfair and excessive tax breaks to special mation and the determination that such in- interests. Congress also needs to pass a formation is ‘‘credible’’, I regard the 15-day strong hate crimes bill to protect more of period as commencing upon that determina- our citizens from violence and bigotry. tion. And I am hopeful that we can resolve these William J. Clinton issues and the other remaining issues, espe- cially the one involving United Nations dues, The White House, so that we can complete our work. It’s still November 8, 1999. possible that we can complete our work in the next few days and get out of here. And NOTE: H.R. 1175, approved November 8, was as- signed Public Law No. 106–89. This statement we’re working hard—Mr. Lew’s working was released by the Office of the Press Secretary hard particularly, and Mr. Podesta and Mr. on November 9. Ricchetti and others, and I thank them for their efforts. And I’m going to give the Cabi- net an update. Remarks Prior to a Meeting With Cabinet Members and an Exchange Education Legislation With Reporters Q. Mr. President, on education, what is November 9, 1999 really wrong with the Republican idea of giv- ing the money to the school districts and let- Budget Negotiations ting them decide whether to buy computers The President. Good morning. We’re or hire new teachers? about to begin a Cabinet meeting that will The President. Well, first of all, we have be a briefing on the current state of the budg- done a great deal for the school districts on et negotiations. As I think all of you know, computers, and in 4 years we went from 4 our budget negotiators have been meeting of our school districts wired to 51 percent. with congressional leaders almost around the Secondly, there is flexibility—Secretary clock in an effort to complete our work and Riley might want to answer this—but there’s produce a budget that reflects the values of flexibility in that bill if the schools get their our people, lives within our means, and looks classes down. But Secretary Riley brought to the future. that study with him today, we mentioned yes- We are seeing encouraging signs of real terday, that gives clear evidence that smaller progress in our efforts to put 50,000 commu- classes in the early grades have permanent nity police officers on our streets and keep learning benefits. And I think that we need the crime rate coming down, in our new mar- to stay with that. kets initiative that seeks to bring investment We don’t have enough money to spend, to areas of our country that have not partici- in my judgment, to risk wasting any of it. pated fully in our prosperity, in our efforts And when the educators and local school to preserve and protect our environment. We leaders and all the educational research agree are even seeing the first signs of agreement. that something needs to be done and we allo- But there’s still a lot of work to be done, cate the money for it, I don’t think we should a number of critical priorities yet to be re- turn around and break the commitment and solved. Most important is the commitment just say, ‘‘We’ll give you a blank check. We to a quality education and our agreement to don’t really care what happens to the hire 100,000 new highly qualified teachers money.’’ We can’t afford to waste a penny to reduce class size in the early grades. We of the money we spend on education. will keep working with Congress to keep the promise that both of us made to the people UnitedHealthcare of America last year. Q. Mr. President, what do you think of The Senate’s voting on a minimum wage a major HMO deciding that doctors should bill today. I urge them to pass a bill that helps say whether you’re sick or well? more Americans into the circle of oppor- The President. Good for them. I applaud tunity and to do it in a way that does not them. And they’re large enough that they Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 9 2307 might be really able to do it and have an with my position in Kosovo, as you know. But impact on this. the United States and Greece are allies not You know—Secretary Shalala can maybe only in NATO but in many other important refresh my memory, but as I remember, ways. when we outlined the principles for a Pa- We want very badly to see a resolution of tients’ Bill of Rights in the commission that the tensions between Greece and Turkey in Secretary Shalala, Secretary Herman headed, the Aegean and especially over Cyprus. And I think there were—I don’t know—14 or 15 I think all Greeks share that hope without HMO’s that agreed right then, but some of regard to their political views. So I expect them were not big enough to basically with- the demonstrations, and I’m not troubled by stand the economic competition if they did them, and I think that the security issues will it and others didn’t. So I think it’s a wonder- be fine. ful thing they’ve done, and I hope it’s the first step toward a resolution of this issue. NOTE: The President spoke at 10:02 a.m. in the Cabinet Room at the White House. A tape was Situation in Chechnya not available for verification of the content of Q. Mr. President, on Russia and its actions these remarks. in Chechnya, are you comfortable that they are responding to your appeals for humani- tarian concerns, as far as civilian casualties, Remarks on Presenting in that situation there? Congressional Gold Medals to the The President. I don’t think you can use Little Rock Nine the words ‘‘comfortable’’ and ‘‘Chechnya’’ in November 9, 1999 the same sentence, in any way. All I can tell you is that we will continue to press for a The President. Thank you very much. minimization of civilian casualties and a max- Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Senator Daschle, imum use of negotiated options to settle this. Leader Gephardt, Senator Hutchison, Sen- I think in the end, there will have to be a ator Lincoln, Members of Congress, Sec- political solution, and I hope that the end retary Riley, and members of the Cabinet will come sooner rather than later, so fewer and administration; a special word of thanks people will die. to Congressman Thompson and to my good Q. But are they responding to you, sir, friend Senator Bumpers. when you ask them not—— The great privilege of speaking last is that The President. Well, I think the United you get the last word. [Laughter] The great States and the rest of the world, the more burden is that everything that needs to be we ask, the more likely it is to occur at a said has been said. [Laughter] sooner date. But I don’t know—I think that I would like to begin by introducing some if I—however I answer that minimizes the people who have not yet been introduced but chances that we’ll have any influence over whose presence here is altogether fitting. the decisions, because I think no country The story of the Little Rock Nine, in the end, wants to be seen as giving in to pressure from is the story of the triumph of the rule of law another country. But I think they are listen- and the American Constitution which was ing. given expression not only by a decision of Press Secretary Joe Lockhart. Thank the United States Supreme Court but by a you, everybody. decision of a President determined to en- force the rule of law. President’s Visit to Greece A couple of hours ago I had the great Q. Are you confident there will be good honor of signing legislation naming the Old security in Greece when you go there? Executive Office Building the Dwight D. Ei- The President. Oh, I think so. You know, senhower Executive Office Building. Presi- I know that Greece has a long and rich his- dent Eisenhower’s son, daughter-in-law, and tory of communists, anarchists, others on the granddaughter are here, and I would like to left, demonstrating, and they all disagreed ask General John Eisenhower, Joanne, and 2308 Nov. 9 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

Susan to stand and be recognized and thank a way of life, and most people just got up them for their presence here. [Applause] and went through their lives, and nobody I want to thank all the previous speakers questioned it. Nobody challenged it. It was for their very moving words. This is a special just the way things were. It was unfortunate, day for me, a happy day and a sad day, an but that’s the way things were. emotional day. I thank all of you for what And all of a sudden, they showed up, and you said about Daisy Bates who, in my years it wasn’t the way things were anymore. And of service in Arkansas, became a good friend then everyone had to decide—everyone. Ev- to Hillary and to me. I was privileged to go eryone in everybody’s little life—you had to to the Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, decide: Where do you stand on this; what which is built around the Lorraine Motel, do you believe; how are we going to live? when we dedicated the exhibit on Central So these people, when they were young, they High School, with the statue of Governor changed the way we were. Faubus on one side and Daisy on the other. I would like to say to all of you that they [Laughter] And even though by then she had paid a price for doing that. And they look to get around in a wheelchair, she got a big real fine sitting up here today, and they have laugh out of that. [Laughter] And what a this vast array of family and supporters here, wonderful laugh she had. and they have lived good lives and accom- So I ask you all to remember her today, plished remarkable things. But we’re giving her smiling self, for that gave a lot of con- them this medal because they paid the price. fidence to those whom we honor. Secretary Daisy said what they endured was a vol- Slater is representing the administration at cano of hatred. And like Shadrach, Meshach, her funeral today, and I thank him for that, and Abednego, they walked out without because he would dearly love to be here with being burned. But they have their scars. They his friends. taught us that you can turn your cheek from I think it was Senator Hutchinson who first violence without averting your eyes to injus- mentioned that we are celebrating the 10th tice, and they taught us that they could pay anniversary of the Berlin Wall’s fall today, their price and go on. and it is fitting that we, on this same day, On this journey that started 42 years ago, recognize what these people did to make the I could never have known that life would walls of bigotry and prejudice fall in America. bring us in contact. But 12 years ago, on the For when they marched up the steps to 30th anniversary of the Central High inci- school, a simple act, they became foot sol- dent, I invited them all to come to the Gov- diers for freedom, carrying America to higher ernor’s Mansion. And I showed them around ground. in the rooms where Governor Faubus plotted You know, when Little Rock happened, I all the stratagems to keep them out of school. was 11 years old, living 50 miles away. Like [Laughter] They got a kick out of that, and every schoolchild in Arkansas, except those so did I. Ten years later, as President, I had in Charleston—all six of them—[laughter]— the profound honor of going to Central High I was—how I miss you. I miss doing this. School to hold the doors open for them as [Laughter] When Little Rock happened, all they walked in, without incident. And it was the kids in Arkansas, white and black, we all great. went to segregated schools, with very few ex- That school now has a very diverse student ceptions. And these people, they just burst body, and a faculty, one of the best records in on our lives. And I feel like I’ve been walk- of academic excellence in our home State. ing along with them for 42 years now, be- It had then an African-American student cause they forced everybody to think, you body president, which it frequently does, and know? Before then, oh, why, you know, I was in all the years I was Governor, it was the 11 years old, and my grandparents believed only high school in my State and one of the in school integration, and they taught me few in the country where you could still study about that, and I though it was a great thing. Greek. But the truth is nobody really thought Now, we open the doors of this house. And about it very much because segregation was I want to say a special word of thanks to the Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 9 2309

Speaker and the other congressional leaders Hillary hosted one of our Nation’s top sci- for allowing us to make this presentation— entists and one of the founders of the Inter- let’s not forget, this is the Congressional Gold net. And they discussed the remarkable con- Medal—which the President always partici- vergence of the explosion in computer ad- pates in, but usually we do it in their vances with the unlocking of the mysteries House—now, on Pennsylvania Avenue. But of the human gene and the gene structure, because of our relationship, Mr. Speaker and the so-called genome. the other leaders have agreed for us to come And the scientist said that if you put all here. And I thank them for that—for per- the people together, and you had a genetic sonal reasons, for our friends. map of every individual on Earth, you would Today we celebrate the faiths of our find that we are 99.9 percent the same ge- Founders, the faith of parents in their chil- netically. Then, even more surprising per- dren, the faith of children in their future. haps, the scientist said, if you took a rep- We celebrate it because we can, and we can resentative group of people of different because these nine people helped us to keep races—if you took 100 African-Americans it alive and to redeem it. And now, as others and 100 Chinese-Americans and 100 His- have said, it is for us to take that faith into panic-Americans and 100 Irish-Americans— a new millennium, once again to redeem the and you put them in these little groups, you promise of our country by giving all of our would find that the genetic differences with- children a world-class education and all of in each group, from individual to individual, our people a chance to be part of our pros- are greater than the genetic differences of perity and by giving all of our increasingly one group to another. Now Melba knew that diverse citizens a chance to be a part of one before the scientists found it out. [Laughter] America. I say that to make this point: Every one So in addition to giving them a medal, we ought to make that commitment, for like all of us, in some way or another, almost every people, we—and I certainly include myself day, is guilty in some way, large or small, in this—we all find it easy to condemn yester- of forgetting that we are 99.9 percent the day’s wrongdoing. But these people stood up same. Every person, every family, every as children to condemn today’s. And so let group, every nation is guilty from time to us learn from them and honor their example. time of trying to give meaning to life by deni- The Speaker joined me in Chicago the grating someone else who is different in other day, in the common cause of giving some way. Honest and real differences can economic opportunity to those who haven’t only be explored, confronted, and worked had it in this most remarkable of economic through and diversity can only be celebrated recoveries. Many of you have committed when we recognize that the most important yourselves to opening the doors of quality fact of life is our common humanity. They education to all of our children. all knew that in some instinctive way. But the most important thing we have to The truth is almost all children know that. do is to truly build one America in the 21st They have to be taught differently. Because century. I want to read you something that so many were taught differently, it fell to Melba Pattillo Beals put in her book. ‘‘If my these nine Americans when they were young, Central High experience taught me one les- as children, to become our teachers. And be- son,’’ she wrote, ‘‘it is that we are not sepa- cause they taught us well, we are a better rate. The effort to separate ourselves, wheth- country. And we honor them today, but let er by race, creed, color, religion, or status, us not forget to heed their lessons. is as costly to the separator as to those who The Book of Job says, ‘‘My foot has held would be separated. The task that remains fast. I have not turned aside. And when tried, is to see ourselves reflected in every other I shall come forth as gold.’’ For holding fast human being and to respect and honor our to their steps, for not turning aside, we now differences.’’ ask these nine humble children, grown into A couple of months ago in this very strong adults, to come forth for their gold. room—or a couple of weeks ago, actually— Major, please read the resolution. 2310 Nov. 9 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

[At this point, Maj. William Mullen III, deserve. Congress should pass clean legisla- USMC, Marine Corps Aide to the President, tion that boosts the minimum wage by one read the citations, and the President pre- dollar over the next 2 years and simply re- sented the medals.] stores the value of the minimum wage to The President. Now we have a special what it was in 1982. American workers de- treat to cap off this event. But before I intro- serve no less. duce the final presenter, I want to say again how much I appreciate the very large delega- tion from Congress from both parties who Statement on the Resignation of are here and particularly the fact that every Michel Camdessus as Managing Representative from our home State is here, Director of the International Representative Hutchinson, Representative Monetary Fund Dickey, Representative Berry, and Congress- November 9, 1999 man Vic Snyder, the Congressman from Cen- tral High School. Thank you all for being Today I want to express my appreciation here. to Michel Camdessus, who announced his in- And I want to thank the really large num- tention to resign as Managing Director of the ber of people from our home State, from Ar- International Monetary Fund, for his years kansas, who are here, many who live in of service. Mr. Camdessus exhibited strong Washington, many who have come up here leadership during his two-plus terms at the from Arkansas to be here, and thank all of IMF. His tireless efforts helped contain the you for coming. fallout from the East Asian economic crisis And now I would like to ask Reverend in 1997 and 1998, improve the global finan- Wintley Phipps to come forward to sing us cial architecture, increase the transparency on our way, a great gift to America. And of the IMF itself, establish ‘‘good practices’’ thank you for sharing your time and your gift for transparency of national governments, with us. God bless you, sir. and create greater focus on debt relief for Thank you. the world’s poorest countries. I will greatly miss working with Mr. Camdessus in the NOTE: The President spoke at 3:55 p.m. in the international economic policy arena and wish East Room at the White House. In his remarks, him the best in his retirement. the President referred to gospel singer Rev. Wintley Phipps, and civil rights activists Daisy Bates, who died on November 4. The Congres- sional Gold Medals were presented to Ernest Remarks to the Democratic National Green, Elizabeth Eckford, Jefferson Thomas, Dr. Committee Women’s Leadership Terrence Roberts, Carlotta Walls Lanier, Minnijean Brown Trickey, Gloria Ray Karlmark, Forum Reception Thelma Mothershed-Wair, and Melba Pattillo November 9, 1999 Beals, collectively known as the Little Rock Nine. Thank you. Well, Janice, thank you, and thanks for giving this group such a build-up Statement on Minimum Wage when you said there were 300 here for Tip- Legislation per and 250 for me. [Laughter] This is the November 9, 1999 first concrete manifestation I have had of the fact that I’m the only one in this crowd not The Senate Republican leadership made running for anything anymore. [Laughter] a serious mistake by insisting on using a mini- Let me first of all say, I’m delighted to mum wage increase as a cynical tool to ad- be here. I got a good report from Hillary vance special interest tax breaks that aren’t on her visit with you, and thank you for the paid for and do little to help working families. good reception you gave her. I brought—I I cannot let this bill become law in its current see Ann Lewis is here. I brought Minyon form. I once again call on Congress to give Moore, my political director, with me, and working American families the pay raise they the new head of our women’s outreach office, Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 9 2311 who used to operate this wonderful organiza- look at our country as a family would its chil- tion, WLF, Lauren Supina, is here. So thank dren and its grandchildren. We have to deal you very much for coming. with these big issues. As all of you know, since Al and Tipper And I think that the women of America and Hillary and I moved to the White House, can make sure that’s what the subject of the we have tried very hard to involve women election is about, and the WLF can make to an unprecedented degree and to show a sure that we involve lots of people who’ve great sensitivity to interests of particular con- never been involved before, who care deeply cern to women. And I’m sure that you’ve had about this. that repeated over and over again. But if you look at—and I’ll just mention But one of the things that I am proudest two or three—if you look at the aging of of is that we have really enabled women to America, that will affect more women than share in the benefits of the work of this ad- men, because you have a longer life expect- ministration. You know, we have now the ancy. And as we talk about saving Social Se- lowest unemployment in 30 years, but we curity for the 21st century, one of the things have the lowest women’s unemployment in we ought to be doing is making special provi- 46 years. That’s amazing. And when you con- sions for women who could not pay into So- sider how many fewer women were looking cial Security at the same amount men could for work 46 years ago, those numbers are and who therefore are much more likely to even more meaningful. be living in poverty. We’ve also tripled the number of SBA If you look at reforming Medicare and ex- loans to women. We’ve worked very hard on tending the life of it and providing affordable issues—the family and medical leave, I don’t prescription drug coverage, that affects have the newest numbers, but as of last year, women disproportionately to men. But it’s 15 million people had taken advantage of it. profoundly important. And as we look ahead, as I have said re- If you look at the challenges we face with peatedly, if you compare where we are now our children, the challenges we face in eradi- with where we were in 1992, we’ve gone cating poverty and bringing prosperity to the from a period of economic distress, social di- people and places we haven’t touched yet, vision, political drift, and a complete discred- of guaranteeing long-term economic health iting of Government to the strongest econ- for our country by paying down the debt and omy in our history, welfare and crime rates getting out of debt for the first time, literally, at a 30-year low; we learned last week teen in 165 years, these are things that I believe pregnancy is at a 30-year low; a country be- we ought to be taking to the American peo- ginning to come to grips with its social prob- ple. lems and come together. We have a clear We’ve proved you can grow the economy direction for the future, and no one’s out and improve the environment. In this period there running against the Government any- of economic growth, we have cleaner air, more. We heard for 12 years that Govern- cleaner water, safer food. We set aside more ment was the problem, and things got worse, land for protection than any administration, including the deficit and the debt. except those of Franklin and Theodore Roo- But that’s the good news. The question sevelt, in the history of the country. That will that we have to face now is what’s at stake continue to be a major concern. ahead of us? What is still to be done? If you look at our responsibilities around And I just want to make two points very the world, there’s a big struggle I’ve been briefly. One is, we have the first chance in having here in Congress to adequately fund my lifetime—and I’m 53 years old—the first out foreign affairs budget. You know, one of chance in my lifetime to really deal with the the things that we do with that money, as big challenges and opportunities out there I’m sure Hillary talked about today, is try to facing our country, without the paralysis or make sure that in developing countries the threat of an external crisis or an internal around the world women have a chance to crisis. And I believe that imposes upon us make a living by getting credit and girls have a very heavy responsibility. And we ought to a chance to make a future by going to school 2312 Nov. 9 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 and being free for oppressive social practices. to work every day worried sick about their That’s going to be a big issue in the future. kids. Will we continue to do that? Will that con- And that is not good for our country, be- tinue to be part of America’s role in the cause one of the big challenges we have to world? face that I didn’t mention, and I want to And of course, in the next election one mention in closing, is—I’m proud that the of the things that will clearly be up for grabs first bill I signed was the family and medical is somewhere between two and four seats on leave law, but we have come nowhere near the United States Supreme Court and the where we need to be in terms of enabling question of whether we will revisit a whole people to succeed both in the workplace and raft of issues, the most obvious of which is at home. And I think that ought to be one the right to choose, but believe me, that’s of the major issues that we take into the 2000 not the only one that is hanging in the bal- elections, even as I continue to redouble my ance of this election. efforts to pass the child care initiative we So I hope that you’re all pumped up about have before the Congress, to pass the what you’ve done. I’m particularly pleased, strengthening of equal pay initiative we have when Janice was giving the report, that you before the Congress, and to do many other had so many people here today who had not things. previously been active. One of the things that So I’m very grateful that I’ve had a chance I think is important for the Democrats to do to serve these last 7 years. I’m grateful for what we have done and what we still can is to recognize that there are literally thou- do. But the decision we should be making sands, even tens of thousands of people out as Democrats is that we are not going to let there who have been directly benefited by our children and our grandchildren down. the policies of his administration and the di- We’re going to use the—literally, it’s the only rection of the country, who have never par- opportunity we’ve had in my lifetime to have ticipated in politics, that don’t imagine that this level of prosperity, in the absence of do- they have a contribution to make, because mestic or foreign crisis, to shape the future they have never been asked, and they’ve of our dreams. never been asked to do anything specific and The only chance we have to do that is with given an opportunity to participate. the massive involvement and leadership of People now believe in the possibilities of the women of this country. And you will be our country and the possibilities of our politi- one of the most important engines of the vic- cal system again. And so if they don’t partici- tories that we have in the year 2000. pate but they could, it’s our fault, not theirs, Thank you very much. and we have to look at it that way. And that’s the last thing I would leave you NOTE: The President spoke at 7:39 p.m. in the with. You know, I’m fighting now for Potomac Room at the St. Regis Hotel. In his re- strengthening the equal pay law. I’m fighting marks, he referred to Janice Griffin, national now for adequate efforts at child care. We chair, Women’s Leadership Forum; and Lauren Supina, Director, White House Office for Wom- passed the family and medical leave law; 15 en’s Initiative and Outreach. million people have taken advantage of it. I’d like to add 10 million more people to the coverage. Remarks to a Democratic National But you should know, for example, that Committee Hispanic Leadership today, under present Federal law, of those Forum Dinner who are eligible to receive assistance from November 9, 1999 the Federal Government to help to provide for quality affordable child care, we have Thank you very much. After that introduc- funding for only 10 percent—only 10 per- tion, I am thinking many things. [Laughter] cent. And in spite of all that, we have the I’m thinking, I wonder how long it will be lowest unemployment rate in 46 years, but before Miguel will run for office. [Laughter] I promise you a lot of those women are going I’m thinking, it is much better to have such Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 9 2313 a friend than an opponent. [Laughter] Thank the success of this evening, Joe and Alfie and you. Thank you for being my friend in ways Roger and Leo and all the others. Nelson, that are personal as well as political. You may, thank you very much for your leadership. however, have caused me quite a problem Thank you, Joe Andrew and the others who tonight, not over Vieques but over saying I are here from the DNC. Lottie Shackelford, have a Hispanic soul. Not very long ago the Lydia Camarillo, thank you for your willing- great African-American Nobel Prize winning ness to go run our convention. Make sure author, Toni Morrison, said I was the first we all have a good time out there, will you? black President. [Laughter] And if I am the [Laughter] first black President and the first President And let me say one serious word before to have a Hispanic soul, I’m afraid they’ll I go forward. There’s one person I really wish never let me go home to Ireland. [Laughter] were here tonight, who died a couple of days It might be worth it. [Laughter] ago, the great mayor of Sacramento, Califor- Loretta Sanchez, thank you very much for nia, Mayor Joe Serna. Mickey Ibarra would your leadership and standing up here tonight be here, but he’s out there representing me and performing in your usual, laid back, re- at that service today. So I ask you all to re- pressed fashion. [Laughter] What a joy it is member Isabel Serna and the family in your to have somebody like you in Congress who’s prayers. They’ve been through a lot. He was not ashamed to have a good time being in a magnificent mayor and a great Democrat public life. We ought to all enjoy it and be and a great friend of mine. He was one of honored. those people who enjoyed public service, had You know, when I see people trudging a good time doing it, and was proud down around here all the time, complaining about to the last day—his health would no longer how hard public life is and all the burdens, permit him to serve—and I ask you to re- I say, ‘‘You know, they’re not giving these member. jobs away. Nobody made you come up here.’’ I also would like to thank two people who [Laughter] People come to me all the time aren’t here tonight: one, Secretary Richard- and say, ‘‘Hasn’t this been just awful for son, who is still in the administration; and you?’’ I say, no. [Laughter] It’s actually been the other whom I wish were here, Henry quite wonderful. You know, a few turns in Cisneros, who has served us so ably and is the road one way or the other and I could such a great man. I thank him. be home doing deeds, wills, and divorces. Now, as all of you know, we’re trying to [Laughter] I am grateful to be here, and I finish this year’s budget, and we’re trying to like it, every day of it. And Loretta likes it, do a few other things before the Congress and she’s grateful to be here, and I appre- goes home. And I’d like to mention just a ciate that. few of them because I think they relate par- I want to thank the administration mem- ticularly to the concerns of the Hispanic com- bers who are here: Secretary Slater, who rep- munity. I want you to know what’s still out resented me at home today in Arkansas at there. We’re fighting to get a reaffirmation the funeral of Daisy Bates, a great hero of of the commitment that Congress made last the civil rights movement; Administrator Al- year, right before the election, that the ma- varez; Maria Echaveste; my former Secretary jority, the Republican majority has voted to of Transportation and Energy, Federico go back on. But I am determined that we Pen˜ a, who did a superb job in both places, will reinstate it, and that is to put 100,000 it’s nice to see you. I would also like to thank teachers out there in the early grades so we another former member of my administra- can lower class size and give our children tion who is here tonight, who is now working a better education. for Vice President Gore, Janet Murguia. Her We are fighting to give our hardest pressed brother was just confirmed as the first His- communities that still have a high crime rate panic Federal judge from Kansas, so we’ve 50,000 police officers on the street. We are got one of them on the payroll, anyway. fighting to raise the minimum wage, which I want to thank all the people at my table I think is very, very important, especially for and other places who had so much to do with lower income workers, many of whom are 2314 Nov. 9 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

Hispanic. You know, we lifted over 11⁄2 mil- sional Gold Medal, the highest award Con- lion Hispanics out of poverty by doubling the gress can award, to the nine students who earned-income tax credit in 1993 and then integrated Little Rock Central High School by raising the minimum wage. And it’s time 42 years ago. to raise it again. And I hope we can prevail, For those of you who are old enough to and I hope you will help us. remember that or young enough to have We’re trying to pass hate crimes legisla- studied it, you may know also that, in addi- tion. We’re trying to pass legislation that will tion to the courage of the young children and enable disabled people to go into the work the power of the Supreme Court’s decisions force and not lose their Medicaid health in- and the court orders, the power of the Presi- surance. We’re trying to pass the Caribbean dency was necessary for the integration of Basin initiative and the African trade bill, Little Rock Central High School when Presi- which would open our markets to the Carib- dent Eisenhower sent in the 101st Airborne bean nations and African nations and open Division and later federalized the Arkansas their markets more to us and put our Carib- National Guard to stop the obstruction. bean neighbors on a more equal footing with Today I signed a bill naming the Old Exec- our Mexican neighbors in our trading rela- utive Office Building after President Eisen- tions. hower because he worked there many years All of those things can still be done before in the military. That building, until the Great the Congress goes home. And insofar as any Depression, housed all the offices of the ex- of you have influence with anyone, I hope ecutive branch, including all the offices of you will get out there and help us with our what was then called the War Department, agenda, because all these things reflect the except for the Treasury Building and the Of- deepest values of the Democratic Party and fice of the President. So Dwight Eisenhower our commitment to the future. I just want to make a couple of other actually worked in that building as long as points. I don’t want to keep you late, and he worked in the White House as President. most of you have heard me give a lot of And his son, Gen. John Eisenhower, who speeches. I had a very emotional day today. is also a noted historian, and John’s wife and I was thinking about many things. I’m about their daughter were there, so I asked them to leave to go to Europe. Hillary and Chelsea to come. So Dwight Eisenhower’s son and just left to go to the Middle East to continue granddaughter were actually present as we the work that I was doing last week in our recognized these nine students. And because hope that we can, over the next 100 days, Arkansas is my home, I have lived with the actually get a framework for a final peace reality of these people all my life, since I was agreement between the Israelis and the Pal- 11 years old. estinians. Then I’m going to Turkey and to And I said today that these nine students, Greece, two great friends of America, in the in their simple desire to get a better edu- hope I can help them resolve some of their cation became, as children, our teachers. difficulties over Cyprus and other issues be- When I lived at home, literally 99 percent fore I leave office. And then I’m going on of all children in my State went to segregated to Bulgaria, a great ally of ours, to try to keep schools. And we may have had an opinion pushing to make peace in the Balkans, where one way or the other, but everybody more we have had to take up arms in Bosnia and or less accepted it was the way it was. Kosovo to stop ethnic cleansing and slaugh- But when they did what they did, then all ter. of a sudden, they came crashing in our lives And today I had this incredible experience, and everyone had to decide: Where do you which would have been wonderful for any stand; what do you believe; how will we live? President but was especially wonderful for Thirty years later, I hosted them in the Gov- me. I hosted in the White House about 30 ernor’s Mansion for the 30th anniversary of members of the United States Congress, Re- Little Rock Central High. I brought them publicans and Democrats, and a couple of all in, and I showed them all the rooms where hundred other people to give the Congres- the then-Governor planned the obstruction Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 9 2315 to keep them out the school. They got a big back-to-back budget surpluses in 42 years, kick out of that. with the smallest Federal Government in 37 And 40 years later, 2 years ago, I went years. It is not an argument anymore. It’s home to Little Rock, to the steps of Little working. It’s the right direction for America. Rock Central High School—which in the So the second thing I want to say to you 1920’s was voted the most beautiful school is, we’ve got to decide now, what are we building in America, and it’s still a magnifi- going to do with this. Because even if I pass cent structure—and I held the doors open everything I’m trying to pass, if we get a good for them, with our Governor, as they walked minimum wage bill and the 100,000 teachers freely through the front door, something they and the 50,000 police and we get the anti- had not been able to do 40 years ago. And environmental riders off the bills and we pass then 2 years later, they came to the White the Caribbean Basin/Africa trade initiative, House, with all their myriad family, kinfolks, we do all the things I mentioned to you, there and friends, for a celebration that truly rep- still will be a lot for America to do. resented America at its best. And of all Americans, Hispanics ought to This has been a great day, a great day to be able to think about this, our country, as be President and a great day to be an Amer- we would our family. I remember one of the ican. And to end it with you—you and all nicest nights we ever shared at the White those you represent have been so good to House, Federico and I, was when we me and to Hillary and to the Vice President previewed that wonderful movie, ‘‘Mi and Mrs. Gore—is a great privilege. Familia,’’ at the White House. I just want to leave you with a couple of thoughts. Number one, many of you helped In my lifetime, which is stretching on and me in 1992 because you knew we didn’t want on as the days go by, in my lifetime, this to keep on going the way we were going, is the first chance America has had to have, because we had economic problems and so- on the one hand, the prosperity and con- cial discord and political drift, and Govern- fidence that we have and, on the other, to ment was discredited. So you knew what you be unburdened by serious, wrenching foreign were against, and you were willing to try threats to our security or domestic crises. In something else. But I was just an argument the 1960’s we had, for a brief period more for most of you. Most of you never met me or less, the best economy we’d ever had, with before I started running for President, and low unemployment, low inflation. But we you decided to give me a chance. had, first, the civil rights crisis to deal with So the first thing I want to say to you is and then the war in Vietnam. it is not an argument anymore. Together, we Now what do you do, as a person, as a made a good decision, and we’ve changed family, as a business, if things are better than America for the better. Seven years later, they have ever been, but you can look ahead when you go home tomorrow and you go to the future and clearly see challenges and back across the country and people ask you opportunities that will not be met or seized why you were there, you can say, ‘‘Well, we if you don’t do certain things you’re not doing gave him a chance, and we tried it their way.’’ now? What do you do? That is the great And as has already been said, we not only question before our people. have had the most diverse administration I can tell you—you know, I don’t know with the most diverse appointments, includ- about you, but I’ll just use my own life— ing the judicial appointments—more of from the time I was a little boy, one of the— whom I’m trying to get up for a vote by the well, when I first ran for office, let me start way—in history, but we have the longest with that. I asked an old sage in Arkansas peacetime expansion in history, 19.8 million politics, I said—I was running really well in new jobs, the lowest unemployment rate in this race for Governor. I said, ‘‘What do you 30 years, the lowest welfare rolls in 30 years, think I ought to really remember?’’ He said, the lowest crime rates in 30 years, the lowest ‘‘Bill, just remember this: In politics, you’re poverty rates in 20 years, the lowest female always most vulnerable when you think unemployment rate in 46 years, the first you’re invulnerable.’’ 2316 Nov. 9 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

How many times can you remember in breathtaking election in the State of Mis- your own life, when you broke your con- sissippi, where we won the governorship in centration, when you got divided, when you a State where they didn’t think a Democrat made a stupid mistake because you thought could be elected for love or money. things were rocking along so well, nothing And part of it was the overwhelming Afri- bad could happen? How many times has that can-American turnout. But there are also happened to a family or to a business, where more Hispanics moving to Mississippi. All you just think things are going to roll on for- over the South, their voices are being heard. ever? It’s never that way. Human nature is And we only won the election by about 6,000 not that way. Human circumstances don’t votes, so everybody can take credit for the work that way. I’m telling you, this is a pre- victory. [Laughter] cious jewel we have been given, a gift we So we have to think about this. What are have been given as a country, to look ahead we going to do for all these children? They and say, ‘‘Okay, what are the big challenges? need a world-class education. If we do it What are the big opportunities?’’ You ought right, the diversity of America will be a bless- to make your own lists. And ask yourself, in ing in a global society. What are we going your lifetime, has there ever been an oppor- to do about the fact that this fabulous recov- tunity like this for America? ery has left people and places behind? Un- What are the challenges? I’ll just give you employment on the Pine Ridge Indian Res- a few. The number of people over 65 is going ervation is 73 percent. Upstate New York, to double in 30 years. There will be two peo- outside of the suburbs in New York City, if ple working for every one person drawing So- it were a separate State, would rank 49th in cial Security. Medicare is supposed to run job growth since I’ve been President. Hawaii, out of money in 15 years. Seventy-five per- burdened by the collapse of the Asian econ- cent of our seniors can’t afford prescription drugs but need them to stay alive and main- omy, is the only State with no economic tain their quality of life. How are we going growth—the inner cities, the Mississippi to deal with the aging of America? Delta, Appalachia. We have the largest number of children How are we going to bring prosperity to in our schools in history, the first time more people and places left behind? Do we have people than the baby boom, and by far more the will to guarantee economic growth for diverse. Loretta was talking about that Re- a generation of Americans by taking America publican newsletter from northwest Arkan- out of debt? I gave a budget to the Congress sas. That’s really true. Northwest Arkansas that will get us out of debt over the next is one of the fastest growing areas of Amer- 15 years, for the first time since 1835. And ica, has been for 20 years, and one of the the progressive party, the Democrats, ought most racially and religiously homogeneous to be for that. It sounds like a conservative areas in the country. And all of a sudden, thing—it is—but it’s the progressive thing to boom, they have this big infusion of His- do in a global economy. Because if the gov- panics. The Catholic Church there now has ernment is not borrowing money, you can a Spanish mass every Sunday and has had borrow it for less, and our trading partners for the last several years. And that’s nothing can get more for less, and then they can be if you’re from Orange County, but if you’re better partners with us, and they can lift their from northwest Arkansas, that’s a huge deal. people out of poverty. [Laughter] How are we going to grow the economy We also have a big influx of people in west- and meet our environmental responsibility? ern Arkansas from Southeast Asia. But last We’ve proved you could do it. Are we going year, our State ranked first or second—I’m to keep doing it? We’ve got the lowest crime not sure which, but I’m sure it’s one of the rate in 30 years. Does anybody seriously two—in the percentage growth of Hispanic think America is as safe as it ought to be? population. Joe Andrew didn’t mention this, If you do, let me just give you one statistic. I don’t think, but in addition to all the mayors The accidental death rate of children from we’ve celebrated, we’ve had a truly historic, gun shots in the United States is 9 times the Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 9 2317 rate of the next 25 biggest industrial econo- numbers right. The miniaturization of all mies combined. things technical will apply to weapons, as I think we now know we can bring the well, make no mistake about it. This is a seri- crime rate down. Why don’t we set a realistic ous challenge, the growth of terrorism goal—I mean, realistic in terms of our around the world, the prospect that the ter- dreams. Why don’t we say we won’t quit until rorists, the drug runners, the organized America is the safest big country in the criminals will all start working together, and world? And if we want that, how are we going the rampant threat of racial, ethnic, and reli- to do it? gious wars—big challenges. Last night, I appeared in the first-ever Which brings me to the last one. And it’s townhall meeting on the Internet, which was what I’ve spent so much time on around the interesting for me, since one of the reasons world and what I celebrated today with hon- I asked the Vice President to join the ticket oring the Little Rock Nine: Can we truly is because I was so technologically chal- make our motto, E Pluribus Unum, real as lenged. [Laughter] It was quite a thrill for we grow ever more diverse? me to do that. It requires, I would argue, three things. But there is a digital divide, and it can have One is, we have to respect, not just tolerate— huge consequences. I was in northern Cali- not just tolerate—but respect and celebrate fornia the other night, meeting with people our differences. You know, I don’t have the who work for eBay. Do you all ever use same attitude as the people that put out that eBay? Buy anything on eBay? You want to memo Loretta talked about. I think it’s a lot hear something interesting? Over 20,000 more interesting in America as we grow more Americans now make a living on eBay, not diverse. working for eBay, trading on eBay, many of I’ll never forget the first Cinco de Mayo them former welfare recipients. Think of celebration I went to in San Francisco. I what we could do in America to close the thought, ‘‘Where has this been all my life?’’ economic divide if we could close the digital [Laughter] You know? I mean, what have we divide, if usage and access to computers and been doing here? connections to the Internet were as dense You know, I used to—when I was Gov- as telephone ownership and usage. Think of ernor of my home State, I used to go to a it. Now, these are the kind of things we ought place called Little Italy to eat spaghetti in to be thinking about. a town called Slovak, to meet with the farm- What are the security threats of the 21st ers that came there in the 1848 revolution. century? Well, I think one of them is we can And now we’re just repeating our history in start running away from each other because technicolor, times four. And I think it’s fas- we’ve all of a sudden gotten afraid of trade. cinating. We need to keep expanding trade but work But let’s stop all this tolerance stuff. Toler- harder to put a human face on it, to take ance is not good enough. We need respect into account legitimate environmental issues and celebration of our differences, number and labor issues, but not to run away from one. the fact that with 4 percent of the world’s Number two, we need to recognize that, people and 22 percent of the world’s income as we have from the beginning, we have gen- if we want to continue to grow, we’ve got uine differences of opinion, which ought to to sell something to the other 96 percent. be forthrightly and publicly argued. In that And if we want to sell something to them, sense, and if that’s all we’re doing, partisan- particularly since we’re richer, we have to be ship is not necessarily a bad thing. When peo- willing to buy things. But this is a good thing. ple say partisanship with a little negative What else? The proliferation of weapons edge, what they really mean is these people of mass destruction, nuclear, chemical, and in Washington are fighting their partisan bat- biological, and the possibility that they can tles trying to increase their power without be made in smaller quantities, like everything concern for the public interest. They think else is smaller. We’ve got cell phones so small there’s some game going on that’s not real. now my big old fingers won’t even hit the But we will always have honest differences. 2318 Nov. 9 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

I know why I’m a Democrat in the year find her husband and her six children all 1999. And I have friends in the Republican slashed to death around her. She’s the only Party who know why they’re Republicans. surviving one, knowing that they had been And we honestly see the world in different betrayed by her neighbor, a person they lived ways. We ought to create a safe and construc- with, lived next to her, in total peace for tive way for people to feel free to think and years, and boom, like that, they started the argue. fight between the Hutus and Tutsis, and peo- But the third thing we have to do is to ple turned on a dime, betrayed their neigh- recognize that the differences we celebrate bors-for-life, and let people be slaughtered. and the differences we fight over, neither one Now there are lots of other stories that of them are nearly as important as our com- are heroic on the other side. But what hap- mon humanity. And that is what the world pens to people? Why does that happen? keeps forgetting, at its peril. Why are the Catholics and the Protestants Don’t you think it’s interesting that, at a still fighting in Northern Ireland when the time when we talk about the Internet—this Irish Republic has got the fastest growing and finding a cure for cancer, and last year economy in Europe, and their common herit- we actually were able to transplant nerves age is rich and fascinating and interesting, into the spine of laboratory animals that had and they could be having arguments in bars had their spines severed, and for the first or in Parliament and making money, instead, time ever they have movement in their lower and educating their children? limbs. Two years ago we identified the two What is it that’s keeping the Israelis and genes that are the biggest predictors of breast cancer for women. Within a couple of years, the Palestinians from taking these last few when mothers take their babies home from steps, the Syrians from joining in? Why are the hospital, we’ll be able to give them a ge- there other terrorist and rejectionist groups netic map which will say, here are the things that are prepared to go out and kill innocent your child has a greater than normal propen- civilians to keep the Israelis and the Palestin- sity for, but if you do the following things, ians and the Syrians from making their final you can minimize them. A lot of people I peace agreement? know, experts in the field, actually believe If you look at America, you look at the within a very few years babies will be born success of people from the Indian subconti- with a life expectancy of nearly a century— nent in America—from India, from Pakistan, within a very few years. Already today, if you from Bangladesh—the phenomenal success, live to be 65, your life expectancy is over 82 if you look at the fact that India will be bigger years. than China in 20 years, that they both have Isn’t it interesting, at this time, with all big scientific bases of expertise, why are they this marvelous stuff happening, not to men- fighting over the line of control in Kashmir? tion all the techno-joys we can have, that the Why can’t they work that out? Why is that biggest problems we have in the world are such a big problem that they keep spending rooted in the oldest failing of human society? money preparing to go to war with one an- We are afraid of people who are different other instead of educating their children and from us. And when you’re afraid of somebody alleviating the abject poverty that is holding who’s different from you, it’s easy to formal- them down and keeping them from their full ize that fear in dislike or hatred, and it’s a potential? I mean, I could go on and on and short step to dehumanizing them, after which on. But you get the point. it’s a short step to taking violent action Why did I have to go into Europe and against them and to thinking it really doesn’t bring the power of the American military to matter. bear in Bosnia and Kosovo to keep people I’ll never forget being in the airport at from slaughtering mostly Muslims, although Kigali, Rwanda, talking to a woman who others were involved too. What is the deal thought she had been killed, because she was here? Same reason, in a more—thank God— cut up in one of the machete rampages in mundane but still very cruel way people were the Rwandan genocide, and she woke up to spitting on and kicking and cursing those Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 10 2319 nine kids when they tried to go to Little Rock Committee; and President Eisenhower’s daugh- Central High School 42 years ago. ter-in-law Joanne and her daughter, Susan. One of the great human weaknesses is that when people get organized, they think that, in order for their tribe to matter, the other Remarks on Departure for York, tribe has to matter less. In order for their Pennsylvania, and an Exchange With lifestyle to be validated, somebody else’s has Reporters to be invalidated, that every difference of opinion turns out to be a difference justifying November 10, 1999 the dehumanization of your opponent. This is a very dangerous thing, made more dan- Y2K Readiness gerous, not less, by the collision of societies The President. Good morning, ladies and and the close contact and the openness of gentlemen. I want to thank John Koskinen borders. and all the leadership that he and others have So we need you for another reason. We provided in helping to prepare America for need you in the Democratic Party. We need Y2K. you as Americans. We need you to remind We are releasing our fourth and final quar- us of what the concept of family means to terly report on public and private efforts to you. What are the obligations of people who address the Y2K computer problem. The re- are in your family? What do we owe to one port shows that our hard work in this country another? If you’re like me, once you get is paying off, and while there is more to do, about 50, your family members, there are I expect we will experience no major national some you don’t even like very much. But you breakdowns as a result of the year 2000 date are bound together. You are bound together. change. I want you to think about that, so when First, the report makes clear that the Fed- you go out across the country, you go back eral Government is Y2K ready and leading home and people say, ‘‘Why are you here? by example. Thanks to the efforts of the Of- What are you doing? Why are you a Demo- fice of Management and Budget, we have crat? Why are you helping who you’re help- completed work on more than 99 percent of ing in 2000?’’ Say, ‘‘Well, number one, I tried all mission-critical computer systems, which him in ’92 and it worked. We’re in a lot better means the American people can have full shape than we were then, and we’re in a lot faith that everything from air traffic control better shape than we’ve been in a long time. systems to Social Security payment systems Number two, I’m doing it because I want will continue to work exactly as they should. to take on the big challenges of the future. Second, the report documents remarkable And I’m really determined that we’re not Y2K progress in all of America’s critical infra- going to blow this responsibility to our chil- structure areas. When it comes to financial dren and grandchildren. And number three, services, power, telecommunications, air and because the Democrats represent the best rail travel, leading organizations report they hope for creating a family in America and have completed or nearly completed all their a family in the world that doesn’t minimize Y2K work. I am confident the Y2K problem, our differences; it celebrates them. It doesn’t therefore, will not put the savings or the safe- minimize our arguments; it respects them. ty of the American people at risk. But it recognizes that underneath it all is our But in some areas we do continue to have common humanity. And without that, noth- concerns. Some small businesses, local gov- ing else matters much. With it, there’s noth- ernments and other organizations have been ing we can’t do.’’ slower to address the Y2K challenge. So Thank you, and God bless you. again I say to these groups, don’t just sit back and wait for problems to occur. Call 1–888– NOTE: The President spoke at 9:20 p.m. in the Crystal Ballroom at the St. Regis Hotel. In his USA–4Y2K, and we’ll show you where to get remarks, he referred to Miguel Lausell, chair, His- help. panic Leadership Council; Representative Loretta And while most of our large trading part- Sanchez, general cochair, Democratic National ners are in good shape, we still have concerns 2320 Nov. 10 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 about the Y2K preparations of some develop- issues. But I think we’re making good ing nations. The State Department will con- progress, and I’m hopeful. tinue to update its country-by-country assess- And we should know—let me say, I know ments and advisories as new information be- you have a lot of questions. But actually, you comes available. ought to know more by 12 or 1 o’clock today We have less than 2 months now until the about how well we’re doing. I think we’ll year 2000. Even those groups that have al- know certainly by the middle of the after- ready completed their Y2K work must now noon if we’re in any shape to finish more put great emphasis on creating and testing or less when the Congress would like to. contingency plans, as the Federal Govern- And let me also say, I’m still very hopeful ment has already done. Back in October, that we can pass the Africa trade bill and when the Government made the transition the Caribbean Basin initiative. I’m still very to fiscal year 2000, we did encounter some hopeful we can pass this very important legis- small date-related computer problems. But lation to let people with disabilities to go into the overriding lesson of that experience was the work force and carry their Medicaid. that alert organizations, armed with good That could be one of the most important so- contingency plans, can fix Y2K disruptions cial pieces of legislation we’ve passed in a in short order. long time. Thanks to the hard work of John Koskinen So we’ve got a lot to do. But I think we and his staff and proactive leaders all across can—if we just keep working, we’ll get there. our Nation, America is well on its way to being Y2K ready. Now, over the next 52 days, we must con- Timing of President’s Visit to Greece tinue to reach out to smaller organizations Q. Sir, could you tell us about the Greek and local governments whose preparations postponement, what precipitated it, your are lagging behind. If we work together and level of concern for security there? use this time well, we can ensure that this The President. Oh, I’m not concerned at Y2K computer problem will be remembered all. You know, if the Greek Government and as the last headache of the 20th century, not the Secret Service aren’t concerned, I’m not the first crisis of the 21st. concerned. I explained yesterday, the Greeks have a Budget Negotiations tradition of large demonstrations, and the Q. Mr. President, as the budget negotia- communists, the anarchists, perhaps some tions drag on, Members of Congress have in- others in Greece want to demonstrate, in dicated, of course, they want to get out of large measure I understand, because they town tonight. You don’t want to leave town strongly disagreed with my policy in Kosovo until Sunday. I’m wondering if that is your and, presumably before that, in Bosnia. And personal deadline, and doesn’t that give you you know, I think we were right, and I dis- a slight advantage over them? agree with them. But the fact that they have The President. Well, I don’t really have the right to free speech doesn’t concern me. a personal deadline. I did have good talks, The Greek Government asked us to put as recently as this morning, with Senator Lott the trip when we did, I think, largely for and Speaker Hastert. And I’ve been in con- other reasons. I think they thought it would stant contact. I saw the Democratic leaders be better for them and that meetings we have yesterday, and we visited briefly. I think might be more relevant if we did it after, we’re making good progress. We made some rather than before, the OSCE meeting in real progress in putting 50,000 more police Turkey. And so they asked to do it. Whether on our streets. We’re making some progress the demonstrations had anything to do with in other areas. We still have to resolve our it, I don’t know. But they might have. But Nation’s commitment to 100,000 teachers. I’m not bothered about it. You know, it’s We’re still working on the United Nations going to happen. And you all get to take pic- arrears and a number of other environmental tures of it. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 10 2321

World Trade Organization Talks in quite competitive in a whole range of areas China if we can get these tariffs down. I think it’s Q. Mr. President, can you give us a read- very important. out on the WTO talks in China? Any progress [The roundtable discussion continued.] there? The President. No. I can’t. All I know is The President. You know, it’s very inter- that they are going on, and we’re doing our esting, I have tried to get the White House best. and the Government to operate more like I’ve got to run to Pennsylvania. you just described, and one of the real prob- Thank you. lems of doing it in politics is that if you make a mistake, it’s big news. And if you don’t, NOTE: The President spoke at 10:05 a.m. on the it’s kind of like the dog that doesn’t bark. South Grounds at the White House. In his re- marks, he referred to John A. Koskinen, Chair- I mean, it’s not like—if you don’t make a man, President’s Council on Year 2000 Conver- mistake, you sell a lot of motorcycles; the bot- sion. tom line goes up. Sometimes if we don’t make a mistake, you get your Social Security check. Remarks in a Roundtable Discussion And it’s become—one of the things that With Harley-Davidson Employees in Vice President Gore really tried to do with York, Pennsylvania our reinventing Government initiative is to November 10, 1999 get decisions made more quickly by people that are closer to the decision point. And we The President. Let me just say first, I tried to run the White House as a team and have had a great tour. I’m glad to be here. have people not be scared of their shadow Thanks for the jacket. But thanks, most of when they come to work, to go ahead and all, for your wonderful job you do. And I’d make a decision and do things at work. like to just have some opening remarks from But it’s very interesting to see what the Jeff and Harry, and then maybe we’ll do a problem in Government is, which is that— little roundtable discussion. and I’m not blaming anybody and certainly As you know, as I said, I’m interested in not our friends in the press who are here two things today. One is, how has Harley covering this event—but it is—the pressures done it; what are the major elements in your are great not to mess up, so that tends to success at home and around the world? And set up systems that are too top-down, too secondly, how important is the global market rule-oriented. And we really tried to change to the profitability and long-term success of that. And we’ve had pretty good success, I your company? think. [At this point, the roundtable discussion con- But you’ve got to be willing—if you trust tinued.] people to make decisions, you’ve got to be The President. Several years ago, you willing to make a mistake, because managers were subject to unfair competition in the make mistakes, so workers are going to make American market, and it took some action mistakes. Everybody makes mistakes. I’d be to get that straightened out. But one of the curious to know how you handle that, how reasons that I wanted to have this new trade you deal with the inevitable occasional error. meeting that we’re going to have next month [The roundtable discussion continued.] in Seattle—we’re going to try to launch a new round of trade negotiations, and the main The President. One of the things that will purpose, from our point of view, is lowering inevitably happen, and we deal with this in tariffs to American products, because there’s every trade negotiation, is you have more and a lot more, not just yours but a lot of other more trade; you have to move toward greater products where, even though we have a very uniformity; you have to respect other coun- successful economy and relatively high wages tries, their determination about what’s safe compared to most other countries, we are and what’s good. Sometimes a lot of these 2322 Nov. 10 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 standards are also a ruse to promote protec- dency, through 1997, 41⁄2 years, 30 percent tionism, and we’ve had a lot of problems with of our growth came from expanded trade. that, too, in addition to tariffs. We’ve had Then since—in ’98 and the first half of ’99, standards that—we used to have laughable a higher percentage has come generated standards with the Japanese, I remember, on from domestic economic growth because of things like importing skis and whether the the Asian financial—but as they come back, skis were a quarter of an inch too wide or it will be 30 percent or more, particularly too narrow. So these things happen, and the if the European economy grows and they’re only way you can change them is to enter relatively open to our products and services. into and do a negotiation and just keep trying We’ll do even better than 30 percent, starting to push through, push through. And then if in, I’d say, 2 years from now. the rules aren’t followed once you’ve set up The roundtable discussion continued. rules, as Tom pointed out, there have to be [ ] some consequences to them. The President. We’ve just been learning how these great motorcycles are made and The roundtable discussion continued. [ ] the teamwork between management and The President. That’s a very important labor here and also how they’re sold not only point. If people overseas aren’t making any in the United States but around the world. money, they can’t buy whatever it is we’re And their message is that if they have fair selling. But we have done that; the United access to markets, they can sell them every- States has maintained the most open market where. And I believe they can—and that the in the world. We’ve been fortunate enough partnership and the trust that exists between to have low unemployment and low inflation the people who work here and the manage- for a long time, so it has benefited us as a ment is a major reason for the absolutely whole. But it still puts enormous pressure stunning success that this country has en- on certain higher wage workers that are very joyed in the last several years. competitive in a global economy if they have The roundtable discussion continued. free access to markets. [ ] So it’s this constant balancing act for me, Mr. Harry Smith. I want to thank you how to protect the overall health of the econ- also, Mr. President. I think you treated labor omy and still make sure that no sector is get- very fairly over the years, and I think you’ve ting the shaft. But we do have an interest done one hell of a job. And we thank you in other people making money. We ought to for coming. want our friends around the world to do well. The President. I’m not done yet. But That’s the only way that we can—we have when I am, I’m going to get on one of those 4 percent of the world’s people and 22 per- motorcycles. [Laughter] Most Presidents get cent of the world’s income. So you don’t have on Air Force One and ride off into the sun- to be an Einstein at math to figure out you’ve set. Maybe I’ll just get on a Harley and ride got to sell something to the other 96 percent, off into the sunset. [Laughter] and they can only buy what they can afford Mr. Jeffrey Bleustein. You can get on to buy. Hog One. We’ll make one of those. [Laugh- So to me, that’s the ultimate logic of trade. ter] But it’s a constant fight to make sure the Q. Mr. President, can you tell us why you rules are fair. think education and teachers are becoming the showdown issue on the budget this year? The roundtable discussion continued. [ ] The President. I don’t know why, except The President. As I said, one of the major that I have very strong feelings about it. And purposes of this new trade round we hope the Congress changed its position from last to start in Seattle next month is to get a com- year to this year—the Republican majority prehensive review of all the problems that in Congress changed its position. We had an are still out there and try to take them down. agreement last year. And there is something And I hope we can do it. I guess I ought to the argument, well, if schools already have to say this. In the first 5 years of my Presi- small class sizes, they should be able to use Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 10 2323 the money on other things, but we have And I’d be curious, before we close, to agreed to that. I just don’t believe we ought know, do you sell Harleys over the Internet? to give a block grant out there when we know And can I order one over the Internet? If we’ve got the largest school population in his- not, Armstrong will provide at a very reason- tory, the most diverse in history, and the kids able price a comprehensive way to do that. who have small classes have permanent [Laughter] learning gains. We’ve got all this research that shows that. We made a commitment last NOTE: The roundtable began at 11:55 a.m. in the year; I think we ought to keep our commit- Conference Room at the Harley-Davidson Motor ment. And I think we’re getting closer. It may Co. plant. In his remarks, the President referred to Jeffrey Bleustein, chief executive officer, Har- or may not be the last unresolved issue by ley-Davidson Motor Co.; Harry Smith, president, the close of business today. But we’re work- Local 175, International Union of Machinists; ing at it. Thomas Buffenbarger, international president, [The roundtable discussion continued.] International Association of Machinists and Aero- space Workers; and C. Michael Armstrong, chief The President. The people who are here executive officer, AT&T and chairman, Presi- like working here. I shook hands with a lot dent’s Export Council, who led the final portion of the workers here today. They like it. of the roundtable discussion via satellite tele- They’re proud of it. And all they want is a conference to a trade dialogue with AT&T em- fair chance to sell their products. And I told ployees in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, as part of the National Dialogue on Trade. A tape was not them that when we meet in Seattle in this available for verification of the content of these meeting of the World Trade Organization, remarks. what our goal is to open a new trade round that will reduce the tariffs and the non-tariff barriers to American products and services Remarks to Harley-Davidson and, in return, make sure that people have Employees in York continued access to our markets. November 10, 1999 But these people here and your company prove, and so many others prove that if we Thank you very much. Thank you. It’s nice have open and fair trade, the United States to be in a restrained, laid-back crowd like can compete with anybody. And it’s the only this. [Laughter] The truth is, it’s wonderful way we can continue to grow our economy to be in a place where people are happy, and at a rapid rate, and at the same time help they’re not ashamed to be excited, and the rest of the world do well. they’re proud to go to work every day. Thank you very much for making me feel welcome The roundtable discussion continued. [ ] here today. The President. First of all, I want to thank Thank you, Jeff Bleustein; thank you, you for being here together and for working Bobby Ramsey. Old Bobby kind of hurt my together and for making America number feelings. You know, I went up to him and one in telecommunications in so many, many he said, ‘‘Well, you’re not nearly as tall as ways. And I want to thank all the people at I thought you were.’’ [Laughter] He said, all the other sites for their support for Ameri- ‘‘When I saw you playing saxophone on ca’s role in the global economy and for ex- Arsenio Hall, I thought you were a lot taller panding the opportunities for trade. guy.’’ [Laughter] And I said, ‘‘That’s why I We’re going to be working hard for it. I got elected President. I was 6′8′′ back then.’’ think we need to work hard to keep trying [Laughter] But I still think you did a good to build a consensus in our own country for job, Bobby, and I thank you. the expansion of trade and for policies that I want to thank Bill Dannehl. Thank you, will support benefits to all Americans who Harry Smith. I enjoyed meeting Willie Da- are out there working every day and deserve vidson today. And I thank Tom to be a part of this global economy. And we’ll Buffenbarger, the president of the Inter- keep working on it. And I thank you very national Association of Machinists, for being much. here and joining us today. 2324 Nov. 10 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

I want to thank Mayor Robertson for wel- how they were dying to have more motor- coming me to York and all the county com- cycles and other paraphernalia to sell. And missioners and legislators and others who are I told Jeff when he mentioned it, one of the here. And I want to say a special word of great treasures of being the President is hav- appreciation again, Jeffrey, to you, for mak- ing the opportunity to meet people around ing me feel so welcome here and for the nice the world you would never meet and make things you said about Bill Daley, behind his friends with them. A person who became a back. Usually, when you talk behind some- particular personal friend of mine and of my body’s back you’re not saying nice things. wife’s was the late King Hussein of Jordan. [Laughter] So Daley is up here talking and And some of you may know, he was a very Jeff is telling me what a good Secretary of satisfied Harley customer. Commerce he is. And I will say, Secretary When Hussein and his wife, Queen Noor, Daley, you have been superb, and we’re came to stay with us a few years ago and grateful for what you do for the United we became very good friends, he gave me States. a gift that I treasure that’s still up in the Now, you may remember this, some of White House today. It’s a picture of himself you, but after I was nominated for President, and his wife in very casual clothes in the Jor- way back in the summer of 1992, Al and danian desert, astride a Harley. Tipper Gore and Hillary and I got on a bus, My best Harley story—I was just recently and we started this bus tour. Our very first in Paris on my way to Sarajevo and Bosnia overnight stop was in York, Pennsylvania. to try to settle the outstanding issues of all And I’m sure none of you were there when the Balkan wars in Bosnia and Kosovo. So we got in. We got in about a quarter to one, I stopped in France to have a meeting with but the crowd was about the size that it is the President of France, and I went to the today. And I looked at that crowd—it was American Ambassador’s residence in Paris. in the middle of the night, you know, we’d Now if you ever saw that house, you’d want been stopped everywhere along the way— to be Ambassador to France, too. [Laughter] and I decided I’d take a bus tour so I could It’s a beautiful place, built in the 1700’s— go see normal people. We went out to all just takes your breath away to walk in, these these little towns. And then we got to York, grand gardens and this beautiful marble it was the middle of the night, and there was foyer when you walk in. In the beautiful mar- this huge throng there. And I popped out, ble foyer when you walk in now, replete with and I looked at Hillary, I said, ‘‘You know, all the proper lighting, is a stunning, 1944 we might win this election’’—[laughter]— Harley-Davidson. [Laughter] ‘‘and we’d better not mess it up.’’ And the way it got there is that when your When I was here before, I didn’t get to predecessors were making motorcycles for come and visit Harley-Davidson. And I wish the war effort, some of them were sent in I had, because since then—I had a beautiful packages, to be assembled to our allies in Harley jacket before I came here, that I got Europe. And some of them went to Yugo- in Milwaukee, but I gave it to a guy who slavia, where Mr. Tito was fighting the Nazis. worked for me because he thought he was Two of them were never opened, and the going to ride to heaven on a Harley-Davidson son of the American Ambassador actually motorcycle. So when he retired, the only came upon these 54-year-old boxes of unas- thing I could think of to give him that really sembled 1944 Harleys last year. And he gave reflected the service he had given to our one to his daddy. And now, if you ever go country and to me was my jacket, which I to France, it’s now the main tourist attraction hated to part with. But the only gifts that of the American Embassy, is a 1944 Harley. really count are the ones that you’d like to It is so beautiful, and I know you’d be proud keep yourself, I think sometimes. So today of it. I got another one, and I thank you. I love I came here today not just because I want- it. ed to see you and not just because I wanted You know, Bill Daley was talking about to come back to York to thank the people being over in the United Arab Emirates and of this community and this State for being Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 10 2325 so good for the last 7 years and through two in your eyes. That is what I want for every elections to me and my wife and Vice Presi- American working family, and I hope that dent and Mrs. Gore. I came here because more people will follow your lead so that I want America to know exactly what you more people can stand up and shout every have done and how. day just for the joy of going to work and being The recovery of this company since the part of a common enterprise and doing 1980’s has been truly remarkable. When you something they can be profoundly proud of. were down in the dumps, people were saying Thank you, thank you, thank you for that ex- American industry was finished, that we ample. couldn’t compete in the global economy, that The second point I want to make is the the next century would belong to other coun- point that Secretary Daley has already men- tries and other places. Today, you’re not just tioned. To really do as well as you can, you surviving; you’re flourishing, with record have to sell these wonderful products not sales and earnings and one of the best man- only around the country but around the aged companies in America, according to In- world. And I think that’s very important. dustry Week. According to management and In 1973, when the first Harley rolled off labor, one of the reasons you’re the best man- the assembly line here, America exported aged company in America is that you have only 6,300 motorcycles. By last year, that a genuine partnership between labor and number had increased to 66,000. Today, management, where all employees are valu- you’re selling about a quarter of your bikes able and expected to make good decisions around the world from Costa Rica to Korea, on their own for the benefit of the common from central Europe to the Middle East. The enterprise. And I thank you for setting that global market for motorcycles, and for Har- example. I wish every manufacturer in Amer- leys, is exploding. It’s a big part of your fu- ica would model it. ture. I came here because I knew before I got And in order for it to be a part of your here—although I had never quite experi- future and our future, America has to con- enced the full force of it until you were tinue to support expanding trade on fair shouting and screaming and having such a terms to all, including Americans. Now, this good time—I knew that this was about more is a big issue. And I want you to just give than making bikes for profit, more than sell- me a couple minutes of serious time here ing attractive leather jackets. What we see to talk about it. here today is how people feel when they have When I got elected in 1992, I don’t think got a job that they do well, that gives them there’s any way in the world a Governor of not only a decent income but a full measure a small southern State—in the affectionate of dignity and pride. terms that President Bush used then to de- I used to tell people all the time that poli- scribe me—would have been elected Presi- tics is about a lot more than economics. But dent if we hadn’t had economic distress, so- if you get the economics right, people figure cial division, political drift, and a Govern- out how to live and shape good lives and raise ment discredited. You all remember that. It their children and build strong communities. was tough in this country. It was tough in And if you don’t get the economics right, this State. then you have to deal with a lot of the other And I had spent 12 years—at that time, values issues, extraordinary welfare rates and not quite 12, a little over 10—working as higher crime rates and all those other prob- Governor of my State, trying to figure out lems. how this economy works, how the education I want people to see that you have, yes, system plays into the economy, how I could turned a company around—yes, you make an actually get up and go to work every day and exciting product, and you sell it all around create the conditions and give people the the world—but that you do it in the right tools to make the life of their dreams. And way, a way that makes you proud to come I asked the American people, I said, ‘‘Look, to work every day. It puts a spring in your give me a chance to put people back at the step and a shout in your voice and a light center of our politics, to create opportunity 2326 Nov. 10 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 for every responsible citizen, to create a com- tory, the highest homeownership in history, munity that every American has a chance to 19.8 million new jobs, the lowest unemploy- be a part of. And give me a chance to put ment rate in 30 years, the lowest welfare rolls in some new ideas. I believe we can grow in 30 years, the lowest poverty rates in 20 the economy and protect the environment. years, the first back-to-back budget surpluses I believe we can move people from welfare in 42 years, and the Federal Government is to work and still allow them to take care of the smallest it’s been in 37 years. The record their children. I believe we can be tough on is in. crime and still do more to keep kids out of Now I might add, there’s a lot of women trouble in the first place. I believe we can in this plant. Last month the female unem- do more to help people succeed at home and ployment rate was the same as the overall at work. I believe we can have a trading sys- unemployment rate, 4.1 percent. That was tem that expands trade and still protects le- the lowest unemployment rate for women in gitimate labor rights and our responsibilities 46 years. And from 1993 until the end of to the environment. I believe we can have 1997, when the Asian economy collapsed and a community where all of us serves more and the Russian economy had such great dif- help one another reach our common ficulty, until that point, 30 percent of this dreams.’’ Anyway, I said, ‘‘The center of this growth came from exports. And an enormous has to be an economic strategy, and mine amount of it came because of improvements is very simple. I want to get rid of the deficit, and advances in technology, not just comput- but I want to find a way to invest more money ers in Silicon Valley but the computer pro- in education, in technology, in training, and grams running all these machines I saw on in research. And I want to expand trade.’’ the plant floor here today, a lot of them tak- To me, it was simple math: we have 4 percent ing the most dangerous jobs, some of the jobs of the world’s people with 22 percent of the that caused people to have long-term inju- world’s income. You don’t have to be a genius ries, away, so that you can work and make to figure out, if you want to keep 22 percent a contribution and make these motorcycles of the world’s income with 4 percent of the world’s people, you’ve got to sell something at some less risk and wear and tear to your- to the other 96 percent. selves. And yet, I knew people were afraid of that. Thirty percent of our growth came from They were afraid that if we opened our bor- exports, until we had the Asian collapse. And ders here, a lot of our lower wage workers they’re coming back now. We’ve worked hard would be put out of business by people who to help them. They’re coming back now. worked for even less money abroad, and they Now, in spite of these economic statis- might not ever get another chance. They tics—I mean, here’s why we’re here, apart were afraid a lot of our well-paid workers from the fact that Bill Daley and I wanted would not do well, because we’d have mar- to come here. And we’re glad we got our kets opened to our competitors in those jackets, and we really wish we were leaving areas, but they wouldn’t open their markets with motorcycles. But I have to wait a year to ours. A lot of people were afraid we would and a half, you know? I’ve got to wait a year see a big transfer of wealth to poor countries, and a half. I couldn’t bear all the stories out but the money would stay in a few hands, here if I rode around on a motorcycle for and it wouldn’t flow down to the workers a while. there, and it would lead to a degradation of But let me tell you, the reason we’re here, the environment in ways that could hurt us. to be fair, is that, ironically, in spite of all That was especially an issue along the Rio those economic numbers I just recited, Grande River when we were working out the there’s actually more division and con- trade agreement with Mexico. So there was troversy over whether trade is or isn’t good all this fight about it. for us today in Washington than there was Well, the results of the last 7 years are in 1993 and in 1994 when we joined the in, and it’s not an argument anymore. We World Trade Organization and set off this have the longest peacetime expansion in his- explosion of economic activity. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 10 2327

And again I say, I think it’s because people Thank you very much for helping us get into are afraid that Americans always get a raw the Japanese market, and we’re doing well deal. They see we have a big trade deficit— there, but there are still some barriers there. that’s because we’ve got even more money I hear that everywhere. So next month in Se- than we produce for. We buy things from attle, we’re going to have a chance to make other countries, but we also sell a lot abroad. the global trading system stronger, to tear We keep setting records for our exports. And down more tariffs, to deal with more non- a lot of what we sell abroad supports higher tariff barriers, to make it clear that if coun- wages in America. The average trade-related tries want access to our markets, we have job pays almost 20 percent more than a job to have access to theirs, but basically, to com- unrelated to trade, like yours do. You know mit to expanding trade. Now that is what is that. in the interest of Harley Davidson, and that So we have to find a way not just for big is what is in the interest of the 21st century business leaders and people like me who live American economy. in Washington, who, you know, get a job that So I came here to say, we can have more lasts for a term of years, regardless. We have companies like yours. We can have more suc- to find ways for people like you, that get up cess stories like yours. This company can and go to work every day and will have a have more employees like you. But if we’re lot of job security when you’re doing well, going to do it, we have to find a way to ex- and people who aren’t in unionized plants pand trade. There’s 4 percent of us. We’ve and who may be working for low wages and got 22 percent of the income. We’ve got to who feel more vulnerable. We have to find sell something to the other 96 percent. It’s a way to build a consensus in America so just as simple as that. But we will never be that all Americans understand that if we want able to do it unless working people believe to keep growing this economy, raising wages, that trade benefits ordinary American fami- creating jobs, we’ve got to stick with what lies. has brought us this far. We’ve got to keep paying down this debt. You know, the politicians and the CEO’s We can make America debt-free in 15 years, can talk until they’re blue in the face. But for the first time since 1835, if we stay on we still have elections in this country, and the budget plan that I’ve laid out. And that in the end, you guys run the show. And it’s will be great for you. Why should you care a good thing. That’s why we’re still around if we’re debt-free? Because if the Govern- here after 200 years. But if we can’t convince ment is out of debt, this business can borrow people like you that we’re right about this money at lower cost, and you will have lower trade issue, then we are going to shrink home mortgage rates. You will have lower America’s future prospects. It’s as simple as car payment rates. If you send your kids to that. college, the college loans will be lower. Just You know, I want you all to watch Seattle because of the amount we’ve reduced the when it rolls around. Every group in the deficit already, the average home mortgage world with an axe to grind is going to Seattle costs the average American working family to demonstrate. I’ll have more demonstrators $2,000 a year less and the average car pay- against me than I’ve had in the whole 7 years ment is $200 a year less and the average col- I’ve been President. I’m kind of looking for- lege loan is $200 a year less. We ought to ward to it. [Laughter] I’ll tell you why. I told keep going until we get America out of debt them all I wanted them to come. I want all for the first time since 1835, so the money the consumer groups to come. I want all the will be there at the lowest possible costs for environmental groups to come. I want every- the American enterprise system to create body who thinks this is a bad deal to come. jobs and improve lives. That’s important. I want everybody to get all this out of their The second thing we ought to do is to find system and say their piece of mind. And I a way to continue to expand trade. You know, want us to have a huge debate about this. we just had a meeting, and I was told, well, But I’m telling you, I’ve worked really hard just what you heard here in the speech: for you the last 7 years to turn this economy 2328 Nov. 10 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 around and to get it going in the right direc- to have basic, decent labor standards for peo- tion. I’ve worked hard to make sure other ple everywhere. people play by the rules, not just in York, And I believe—that’s why I’m glad the Pennsylvania, but in York, England, and in demonstrators are coming. I want us to try York, western Australia. to find a way to build a consensus where we And now, as I look ahead to the last year can expand trade and respect the rights of and a couple of months of my term, I try labor and the environment. to think of what things I can still do that But let me tell you something, you know will allow this prosperity to go on and on this, you think about your own life. If we and that will embrace people who haven’t have more trade and it’s good for you and yet been affected by it. We still have people it’s good for those countries, don’t you think in places who haven’t been picked up by this it’s more likely that working people will be recovery. And I want this to go on. It’s al- better off and their environment will be ready the longest peacetime expansion in his- cleaner? I mean, the more money you’ve got, tory. In February it’ll be the longest eco- the more you can afford to give workers nomic expansion, including those that em- wages that are increased, and the more you braced our World Wars. But we can keep can afford to clean up the environment. So it going. But only if we find more customers I think all these things work together. and more investment in a non-inflationary In Seattle, I’m going to ask the trade orga- way. And there’s only two places to find it. nization for the very first time to establish You’ve got to go to the places in America a working group on trade and labor, so we which have had no recovery and to the peo- get working people and their concerns in- ple who are still on welfare or otherwise left volved in the trade process before all the de- cisions are made. I have worked hard to make out, or you’ve got to sell more stuff overseas. environment a part of this. I think it’s impor- Therefore, I say to you—I don’t think the tant. trading system is perfect, by the way. I have But I came here for this simple reason. argued until I’m blue in the face, and I will This is a great company. You’ve got a great continue to argue that when we make these union. You’ve found a successful way to com- trade rules, we need to take the concerns pete in the world. You represent the future of ordinary citizens into account. We should of the American economy. But if I cannot be growing the economy not just in America convince the decisionmakers in Washington but everywhere and still improving the envi- and ordinary people like you all across Amer- ronment. ica that a key part of the economic success Let me tell you, compared to 7 years ago, we’ve enjoyed in the last 7 years and the eco- with all these jobs, in America, the air is nomic success America can enjoy in the years cleaner; the water is cleaner; the food is safer. ahead requires us to continue to break down We’ve set aside more land to protect it for barriers to trade, then in the future, when sportspeople and for tourists and people that I’m not around anymore, you won’t have the just want to be out in nature, than any admin- economic prosperity that I think you deserve. istration in the history of this country, except So I ask you to think about this. I thank those of Franklin and Theodore Roosevelt. you for being so quiet and listening to this. You can improve the economy and improve I wouldn’t be for this if I didn’t think it was the environment at the same time. People right for you, if I didn’t think it was good ought to have that everywhere. They ought for ordinary Americans. But I’ll leave you to have that security everywhere. with this thought: We live in a world that Working people everywhere, even if they is smaller and smaller, and that is either can’t enjoy the same income you do, ought going to make us more prosperous and more to have access to basic labor rights. We secure or more vulnerable and more inse- shouldn’t be having child labor in some of cure. If we don’t trade with other people and these countries producing products to com- help them to get involved in a cycle of growth pete in our markets and exploit children with us and you have more and more people when they ought to be in school. We ought that are poor, with open borders, you’re Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 10 2329 going to have more drug trafficking, more want a country growing together, a part of organized crime, more political terrorism, our strategy has got to be to sell more, not and more headaches. And everybody every- just Harleys, but everything we can possibly where will be more vulnerable to it. sell, around the world. On the other hand, if we make a living So I ask you, don’t let this trade debate by selling more of our things overseas and be the province of politicians and CEO’s. You the price of that is to let people sell more embrace it. It’s your future, and your chil- of their things to us and they do better and dren’s future. And every company can be like their children do better, you will have more Harley. But we have to embrace the world cooperation and a far more interesting world and say, ‘‘We are not afraid. We can get the for your children to live in. big things right.’’ I believe the best days of this country are Thank you, and God bless you. still ahead. I believe the life our kids and grandkids are going to have will be truly NOTE: The President spoke at 1 p.m. in a tent amazing. Within 10 years, children might ac- at the Harley-Davidson Plant. In his remarks, he tually be born with a life expectancy of a hun- referred to Jeffrey Bleustein, chief executive offi- dred years. Their mothers will take home cer, and Willie G. Davidson, vice president of Styl- ing, Harley-Davidson Motor Co.; Bobby Ramsey, with them from the hospital a map of the chief shop steward, and William Dannehl, general children’s genetic system, which will say, manager York facility, Harley-Davidson Motor your child has the following strengths and Co.; Harry Smith, president, Local 175, Inter- the following problems, but if you do these national Union of Machinists; and Mayor Charles 10 things in the child’s upbringing you will Robertson of York. dramatically reduce the fact that your little girl will get breast cancer or your little boy will develop colon cancer. It will be an amaz- Statement on Senate Confirmation of ing future. Carol Moseley-Braun To Be But we have to do the big things right. Ambassador to New Zealand That’s what you do here. You do the big November 10, 1999 things right. And you know a lot of little mis- takes will be made. You know even you aren’t I am very pleased that the Senate has con- perfect. You know mistakes will be made, but firmed Carol Moseley-Braun to be our Na- if you get the big things right, you know it’s tion’s Ambassador to New Zealand. The Sen- going to come out all right. ate’s overwhelming bipartisan vote is a strong What I’m trying to do, with this new trade endorsement of her outstanding experience round in Seattle, Washington, and with these and credentials for this position. I appreciate speeches across the country, is to make sure her willingness to take on this responsibility, as Americans, we get the big things right. and I expect her to do a superior job rep- Should we fight for fair trade? You bet. Did resenting our country’s interests in New we get a lot of steel dumped on us when Zealand. the Asian and the Russian economies went down, and was it unfair, and did I have to push hard to get it out? You bet. Did you Statement on Funding To Assist deserve trade protection several years ago Colombia in Fighting Drug when you got it? Absolutely you did. Production and Trafficking Do we have to make the system work November 10, 1999 right? Yes. That’s true. You’ve got to make the system work right. But let’s not lose the Fourteen months ago, the inauguration of big point: if we want to continue to grow, President Andres Pastrana brought to Co- have high incomes, low unemployment—the lombia a new spirit of hope—for deeper de- lowest minority unemployment in the history mocracy, for broader prosperity, for an end of the country, lowest women’s unemploy- to that country’s long civil conflict. President ment in 46 years, the lowest overall unem- Pastrana has put forth a bold agenda—Plan ployment in 30 years—if we want that, if we Colombia—to address his nation’s toughest 2330 Nov. 10 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 challenges. But the obstacles to a better fu- Notice—Continuation of Emergency ture for Colombia are substantial. In particu- Regarding Weapons of Mass lar, continued drug production and traffick- Destruction ing puts Colombia’s progress in peril. It also fuels addiction and violence in other coun- November 10, 1999 tries, including ours. On November 14, 1994, by Executive Therefore, I am pleased that the current Order 12938, I declared a national emer- foreign operations bill, which I hope the gency with respect to the unusual and ex- Congress will approve, provides our full $78 traordinary threat to the national security, million request for programs to help Presi- foreign policy, and economy of the United dent Pastrana fight the drug trade in Colom- States posed by the proliferation of nuclear, bia. It provides a total of $305 million for biological, and chemical weapons (‘‘weapons global counter-drug efforts, which could of mass destruction’’) and the means of deliv- allow additional spending focused on Colom- ering such weapons. Because the prolifera- bia. My overall FY 2000 budget request tion of weapons of mass destruction and the funds other efforts to assist in this fight— means of delivering them continues to pose such as asset forfeiture, military assistance an unusual and extraordinary threat to the and training—totaling more than $70 million. national security, foreign policy, and econ- Earlier this fall, we approved a further $58 omy of the United States, the national emer- million in drawdown funds for counter-drug gency first declared on November 14, 1994, efforts in Colombia. And we anticipate pro- and extended on November 14, 1995, No- viding additional help, including DEA assist- vember 12, 1996, November 13, 1997, and ance, alternative development, and potential November 12, 1998, must continue in effect additional drawdown authority. beyond November 14, 1999. Therefore, in While we will continue to move forward accordance with section 202(d) of the Na- to aid Plan Colombia with currently available tional Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), funds, more funding is needed if we are to I am continuing the national emergency de- gain the upper hand in the fight against drugs clared in Executive Order 12938. and help Colombia on the path to stable de- mocracy. I have asked my senior advisers to This notice shall be published in the Fed- work with Congress, following completion of eral Register and transmitted to the Con- the current budget process, to enhance our gress. bilateral assistance programs—for counter- drug efforts and for other programs to help William J. Clinton President Pastrana deepen democracy and The White House, promote prosperity. We will also continue to November 10, 1999. encourage our allies and the international in- stitutions to assist Colombia in implementing President Pastrana’s strategy. [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, Strengthening stability and democracy in 12:15 p.m., November 10, 1999] Colombia, and fighting the drug trade there, is the right thing to do, and it is very much NOTE: This notice was released by the Office of in America’s own national interest. So, with the Press Secretary on November 10, and it was President Pastrana and with our Congress, published in the Federal Register on November we must and we will intensify this vital work. 12. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 10 2331

Message to the Congress Reporting recent annual report provided to the Con- on the Proliferation of Weapons of gress pursuant to section 308 of the Chemical Mass Destruction and Biological Weapons Control and Warfare November 10, 1999 Elimination Act of 1991 (Public Law 102– 182), also known as the ‘‘CBW Report.’’ To the Congress of the United States: On July 28, 1998, in Executive Order On November 14, 1994, in light of the 13094, I amended section 4 of Executive dangers of the proliferation of nuclear, bio- Order 12938 so that the United States Gov- logical, and chemical weapons (‘‘weapons of ernment could more effectively respond to mass destruction’’—WMD) and of the means the worldwide threat of weapons of mass de- of delivering such weapons, I issued Execu- struction proliferation activities. The amend- tive Order 12938, and declared a national ment of section 4 strengthens Executive emergency under the International Emer- Order 12938 in several significant ways. The gency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 amendment broadens the type of prolifera- et seq.). Under section 202(d) of the National tion activity that can subject entities to poten- Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), the tial penalties under the Executive order. The national emergency terminates on the anni- original Executive order provided for pen- versary date of its declaration unless, within alties for contributions to the efforts of any the 90-day period prior to each anniversary foreign country, project or entity to use, ac- date, I publish in the Federal Register and quire, design, produce, or stockpile chemical transmit to the Congress a notice stating that or biological weapons; the amended Execu- such emergency is to continue in effect. The tive order also covers contributions to foreign proliferation of weapons of mass destruction programs for nuclear weapons and for mis- and their means of delivery continues to pose siles capable of delivering weapons of mass an unusual and extraordinary threat to the destruction. Moreover, the amendment ex- national security, foreign policy, and econ- pands the original Executive order to include omy of the United States. I am, therefore, attempts to contribute to foreign prolifera- advising the Congress that the national emer- tion activities, as well as actual contributions, gency declared on November 14, 1994, and and broadens the range of potential penalties extended on November 14, 1995, November to expressly include the prohibition of U.S. 12, 1996, November 13, 1997, and Novem- Government assistance to foreign persons, ber 12, 1998, must continue in effect beyond and the prohibition of imports into the November 14, 1999. Accordingly, I have ex- United States and U.S. Government procure- tended the national emergency declared in ment. In sum, the amendment gives the Executive Order 12938, as amended. United States Government greater flexibility The following report is made pursuant to and discretion in deciding how and to what section 204(a) of the International Emer- extent to impose measures against foreign gency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. persons that assist proliferation programs. 1703(c)) and section 401(c) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1641(c)), re- Nuclear Weapons garding activities taken and money spent pur- In May 1998, India and Pakistan each con- suant to the emergency declaration. Addi- ducted a series of nuclear tests. World reac- tional information on nuclear, missile, and/ tion included nearly universal condemnation or chemical and biological weapons (CBW) across a broad range of international fora and nonproliferation efforts is contained in the multilateral support for a broad range of most recent annual Report on the Prolifera- sanctions, including new restrictions on lend- tion of Missiles and Essential Components ing by international financial institutions un- of Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Weap- related to basic human needs and on aid from ons, provided to the Congress pursuant to the G–8 and other countries. section 1097 of the National Defense Au- Since the mandatory imposition of U.S. thorization Act for Fiscal Years 1992 and statutory sanctions, we have worked unilater- 1993 (Public Law 102–190), also known as ally, with other P–5 and G–8 members, and the ‘‘Nonproliferation Report,’’ and the most through the United Nations, to dissuade 2332 Nov. 10 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

India and Pakistan from taking further steps Disarmament session. However, these nego- toward developing nuclear weapons. We tiations were unable to resume in 1999 and have urged them to join multilateral arms we have no indications that India or Pakistan control efforts and to conform to the stand- played helpful ‘‘behind the scenes’’ roles. ards of nonproliferation regimes, to prevent They also pledged to institute strict controls a regional arms race and build confidence that meet internationally accepted standards by practicing restraint, and to resume efforts on sensitive exports, and have begun expert to resolve their differences through dialogue. discussions with the United States and others The P–5, G–8, and U.N. Security Council on this subject. In addition, India and Paki- have called on India and Pakistan to take a stan resumed their bilateral dialogue on out- broad range of concrete actions. The United standing disputes, including Kashmir, at the States has focused most intensely on several Foreign Secretary level. The Kargil conflict objectives that can be met over the short and this summer complicated efforts to continue medium term: an end to nuclear testing and this bilateral dialogue, although both sides prompt, unconditional ratification of the have expressed interest in resuming the dis- Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty cussions at some future point. We will con- (CTBT); engagement in productive negotia- tinue discussions with both governments at tions on a fissile material cut-off treaty the senior and expert levels, and our diplo- (FMCT) and, pending their conclusion, a matic efforts in concert with the P–5, G–8, moratorium on production of fissile material and in international fora. Efforts may be fur- for nuclear weapons and other nuclear explo- ther complicated by India’s release in August sive devices; restraint in development and 1999 of a draft of its nuclear doctrine, which, deployment of nuclear-capable missiles and although its timing may have been politically aircraft; and adoption of controls meeting motivated, suggests that India intends to international standards on exports of sen- make nuclear weapons an integral part of the sitive materials and technology. national defense. Against this backdrop of international The Democratic People’s Republic of pressure on India and Pakistan, high-level Korea (DPRK or North Korea) continues to U.S. dialogues with Indian and Pakistani offi- maintain a freeze on its nuclear facilities con- cials have yielded little progress. In Septem- sistent with the 1994 U.S.-DPRK Agreed ber 1998, Indian and Pakistani leaders had Framework, which calls for the immediate expressed a willingness to sign the CTBT. freezing and eventual dismantling of the Both governments, having already declared DPRK’s graphite-moderated reactors and re- testing moratoria, had indicated they were processing plant at Yongbyon and Taechon. prepared to sign the CTBT by September The United States has raised its concerns 1999 under certain conditions. These dec- with the DPRK about a suspect underground larations were made prior to the collapse of site under construction, possibly intended to Prime Minister Vajpayee’s Indian govern- support nuclear activities contrary to the ment in April 1999, a development that has Agreed Framework. In March 1999, the delayed consideration of CTBT signature in United States reached agreement with the India. The Indian election, the Kargil con- DPRK for visits by a team of U.S. experts flict, and the October political coup in Paki- to the facility. In May 1999, a Department stan have further complicated the issue, al- of State team visited the underground facility though neither country has renounced its at Kumchang-ni. The team was permitted to commitment. Pakistan has said that it will not conduct all activities previously agreed to sign the Treaty until India does. Additionally, help remove suspicions about the site. Based Pakistan’s Foreign Minister stated publicly on the data gathered by the U.S. delegation on September 12, 1999, that Pakistan would and the subsequent technical review, the not consider signing the CTBT until sanc- United States has concluded that, at present, tions are removed. the underground site does not violate the India and Pakistan both withdrew their op- 1994 U.S.-DPRK Agreed Framework. position to negotiations on an FMCT in Ge- The Agreed Framework requires the neva at the end of the 1998 Conference on DPRK to come into full compliance with its Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 10 2333

NPT and IAEA obligations as a part of a ess and will allow for more thoughtful de- process that also includes the supply of two bate. light water reactors to North Korea. United With 35 member states, the Nuclear Sup- States experts remain on-site in North Korea pliers Group (NSG) is a widely accepted, ma- working to complete clean-up operations ture, and effective export-control arrange- after largely finishing the canning of spent ment. At its May 1999 Plenary and related fuel from the North’s 5-megawatt nuclear re- meetings in Florence, Italy, the NSG consid- actor. ered new members (although none were ac- The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty cepted at that meeting), reviewed efforts to (NPT) is the cornerstone on the global nu- enhance transparency, and pursued efforts to clear nonproliferation regime. In May 1999, streamline procedures and update control NPT Parties met in New York to complete lists. The NSG created an Implementation preparations for the 2000 NPT Review Con- Working Group, chaired by the UK, to con- ference. The United States is working with sider changes to the guidelines, membership others to ensure that the 2000 NPT Review issues, the relationship with the NPT Export- Conference is a success that reaffirms the ers (Zangger) Committee, and controls on NPT as a strong and viable part of the global brokering. The Transparency Working security system. Group was tasked with preparing a report The United States signed the Comprehen- on NSG activities for presentation at the sive Nuclear-Test Ban Treaty on September 2000 NPT Review Conference by the Italian chair. The French will host the Plenary and 24, 1996. So far, 154 countries have signed assume the NSG Chair in 2000 and the and 51 have ratified the CTBT. During 1999, United States will host and chair in 2001. CTBT signatories conducted numerous The NSG is currently considering mem- meetings of the Preparatory Commission bership requests from Turkey and Belarus. (PrepCom) in Vienna, seeking to promote Turkey’s membership is pending only agree- rapid completion of the International Mon- ment by Russia to join the intercessional con- itoring System (IMS) established by the sensus of all other NSG members. The Treaty. In October 1999, a conference was United States believes it would be appro- held pursuant to Article XIV of the CTBT, priate to confirm intercessional consensus in to discuss ways to accelerate the entry into support of Turkey’s membership before con- force of the Treaty. The United States at- sidering other candidates. Belarus has been tended that conference as an observer. in consultation with the NSG Chair and other On September 22, 1997, I transmitted the members including Russia and the United CTBT to the Senate, requesting prompt ad- States regarding its interest in membership vice and consent to ratification. I deeply re- and the status of its implementation of export gret the Senate’s decision on October 13, controls to meet NSG Guideline standards. 1999, to refuse its consent to ratify the The United States will not block interces- CTBT. The CTBT will serve several U.S. na- sional consensus of NSG members in support tional security interests by prohibiting all nu- of NSG membership for Belarus, provided clear explosions. It will constrain the devel- that consensus for Turkey’s membership pre- opment and qualitative improvement of nu- cedes it. Cyprus and Kazakhstan have also clear weapons; end the development of ad- expressed interest in membership and are in vanced new types of weapons; contribute to consultation with the NSG Chair and other the prevention of nuclear proliferation and members regarding the status of their export the process of nuclear disarmament; and control systems. China is the only major nu- strengthen international peace and security. clear supplier that is not a member of the The CTBT marks a historic milestone in our NSG, primarily because it has not accepted drive to reduce the nuclear threat and to the NSG policy of requiring full-scope safe- build a safer world. For these reasons, we guards as a condition for supply of nuclear hope that at an appropriate time, the Senate trigger list items to nonnuclear weapon will reconsider this treaty in a manner that states. However, China has taken major steps will ensure a fair and thorough hearing proc- toward harmonization of its export control 2334 Nov. 10 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 system with the NSG Guidelines by the im- (EC), and the Technical Secretariat (TS). plementation of controls over nuclear-related The TS carries out the verification provisions dual-use equipment and technology. of the CWC, and presently has a staff of ap- During the last 6-months, we reviewed in- proximately 500, including about 200 inspec- telligence and other reports of trade in nu- tors trained and equipped to inspect military clear-related material and technology that and industrial facilities throughout the world. might be relevant to nuclear-related sanc- To date, the OPCW has conducted over 500 tions provisions in the Iran-Iraq Arms Non- routine inspections in some 29 countries. No Proliferation Act of 1992, as amended; the challenge inspections have yet taken place. Export-Import Bank Act of 1945, as amend- To date, nearly 170 inspections have been ed; and the Nuclear Proliferation Prevention conducted at military facilities in the United Act of 1994. No statutory sanctions deter- States. The OPCW maintains a permanent minations were reached during this reporting inspector presence at operational U.S. CW period. The administrative measures im- destruction facilities in Utah and Johnston Is- posed against ten Russian entities for their land. nuclear- and/or missile-related cooperation The United States is determined to seek with Iran remain in effect. full implementation of the concrete meas- ures in the CWC designed to raise the costs Chemical and Biological Weapons and risks for any state or terrorist attempting The export control regulations issued to engage in chemical weapons-related activi- under the Enhanced Proliferation Control ties. The CWC’s declaration requirements Initiative (EPCI) remain fully in force and improve our knowledge of possible chemical continue to be applied by the Department weapons activities. Its inspection provisions of Commerce, in consultation with other provide for access to declared and agencies, in order to control the export of undeclared facilities and locations, thus mak- items with potential use in chemical or bio- ing clandestine chemical weapons production logical weapons or unmanned delivery sys- and stockpiling more difficult, more risky, tems for weapons of mass destruction. and more expensive. Chemical weapons (CW) continue to pose The Chemical Weapons Convention Im- a very serious threat to our security and that plementation Act of 1998 was enacted into of our allies. On April 29, 1997, the Conven- U.S. law in October 1998, as part of the Om- tion on the Prohibition of the Development, nibus Consolidated and Emergency Supple- Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical mental Appropriation Act for Fiscal Year Weapons and on Their Destruction (the 1999 (Public Law 105–277). My Administra- Chemical Weapons Convention or CWC) en- tion published an Executive order on June tered into force with 87 of the CWC’s 165 25, 1999, to facilitate implementation of the States Signatories as original States Parties. Act and is working to publish regulations re- The United States was among their number, garding industrial declarations and inspec- having ratified the CWC on April 25, 1997. tions of industrial facilities. Submission of Russia ratified the CWC on November 5, these declarations to the OPCW, and subse- 1997, and became a State Party on Decem- quent inspections, will enable the United ber 8, 1997. To date, 126 countries (including States to be fully compliant with the CWC. China, Iran, India, Pakistan, and Ukraine) United States noncompliance to date has, have become States Parties. among other things, undermined U.S. lead- The implementing body for the CWC— ership in the organization as well as our abil- the Organization For the Prohibition of ity to encourage other States Parties to make Chemical Weapons (OPCW)—was estab- complete, accurate, and timely declarations. lished at entry-into-force (EIF) of the Con- Countries that refuse to join the CWC will vention on April 29, 1997. The OPCW, lo- be politically isolated and prohibited by the cated in The Hague, has primary responsibil- CWC from trading with States Parties in cer- ity (along with States Parties) for implement- tain key chemicals. The relevant treaty pro- ing the CWC. It consists of the Conference visions are specifically designed to penalize of the States Parties, the Executive Council countries that refuse to join the rest of the Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 10 2335 world in eliminating the threat of chemical and biological weapons, and that all states weapons. adhering to these Conventions must take The United States also continues to play steps to ensure that their national activities a leading role in the international effort to support these goals. At the 1999 Plenary, the reduce the threat from biological weapons Group continued to focus on strengthening (BW). We participate actively in the Ad Hoc AG export controls and sharing information Group (AHG) of States Parties striving to to address the threat of CBW terrorism. The complete a legally binding protocol to AG also reaffirmed its commitment to con- strengthen and enhance compliance with the tinue its active outreach program of briefings 1972 Convention on the Prohibition of the for non-AG countries, and to promote re- Development, Production and Stockpiling of gional consultations on export controls and Bacteriological (Biological) and Toxin Weap- nonproliferation to further awareness and ons and on Their Destruction (the Biological understanding of national policies in these Weapons Convention or BWC). This Ad Hoc areas. The AG discussed ways to be more Group was mandated by the September 1994 proactive in stemming attacks on the AG in BWC Special Conference. The Fourth BWC the CWC and BWC contexts. Review Conference, held in November/De- During the last 6 months, we continued cember 1996, urged the AHG to complete to examine closely intelligence and other re- the protocol as soon as possible but not later ports of trade in CBW-related material and than the next Review Conference to be held in 2001. Work is progressing on a draft roll- technology that might be relevant to sanc- ing text through insertion of national views tions provisions under the Chemical and Bio- and clarification of existing text. Five AHG logical Weapons Control and Warfare Elimi- negotiating sessions were scheduled for 1999. nation Act of 1991. No new sanctions deter- The United States is working toward comple- minations were reached during this reporting tion of the substance of a strong Protocol next period. The United States also continues to year. cooperate with its AG partners and other On January 27, 1998, during the State of countries in stopping shipments of prolifera- the Union address, I announced that the tion concern. United States would take a leading role in the effort to erect stronger international bar- Missiles for Delivery of Weapons of Mass riers against the proliferation and use of BW Destruction by strengthening the BWC with a new inter- The United States continues carefully to national system to detect and deter cheating. control exports that could contribute to un- The United States is working closely with manned delivery systems for weapons of U.S. industry representatives to obtain tech- mass destruction, and closely to monitor ac- nical input relevant to the development of U.S. negotiating positions and then to reach tivities of potential missile proliferation con- international agreement on data declarations cern. We also continued to implement U.S. and on-site investigations. missile sanctions laws. In March 1999, we The United States continues to be a lead- imposed missile sanctions against three Mid- ing participant in the 30-member Australia dle Eastern entities for transfers involving Group (AG) chemical and biological weapons Category II Missile Technology Control Re- nonproliferation regime. The United States gime (MTCR) Annex items. Category I mis- attended the most recent annual AG Plenary sile sanctions imposed in April 1998 against Session from October 4–8, 1999, during North Korean and Pakistani entities for the which the Group reaffirmed the members’ transfer from North Korea to Pakistan of continued collective belief in the Group’s via- equipment and technology related to the bility, importance, and compatibility with the Ghauri missile remain in effect. CWC and BWC. Members continue to agree During this reporting period, MTCR Part- that full adherence to the CWC and BWC ners continued to share information about by all governments will be the only way to proliferation problems with each other and achieve a permanent global ban on chemical with other potential supplier, consumer, and 2336 Nov. 10 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 transshipment states. Partners also empha- activities in South and North East Asia and sized the need for implementing effective ex- the Middle East. port control systems. This cooperation has re- During this reporting period, the United sulted in the interdiction of missile-related States continued to work unilaterally and in materials intended for use in missile pro- coordination with its MTCR Partners to com- grams of concern. bat missile proliferation and to encourage In June the United States participated in nonmembers to export responsibly and to ad- the MTCR’s Reinforced Point of Contact here to the MTCR Guidelines. To encourage Meeting (RPOC). At the RPOC, MTCR international focus on missile proliferation Partners held in-depth discussions of re- issues, the USG also placed the issue on the gional missile proliferation concerns, focus- agenda for the G8 Cologne Summit, result- ing in particular on Iran, North Korea, and ing in an undertaking to examine further in- South Asia. They also discussed steps Part- dividual and collective means of addressing ners can take to further increase outreach this problem and reaffirming commitment to to nonmembers. The Partners agreed to con- the objectives of the MTCR. Since my last tinue their discussion of this important topic report, we continued our missile non- at the October 1999 Noordwijk MTCR Ple- proliferation dialogues with China (inter- nary. rupted after the accidental bombing of Chi- Also in June, the United States partici- na’s Belgrade Embassy), India, the Republic pated in a German-hosted MTCR workshop of Korea (ROK), North Korea (DPRK), and Pakistan. In the course of normal diplomatic at which Partners and non-Partners dis- relations we also have pursued such discus- cussed ways to address the proliferation po- sions with other countries in Central Europe, tential inherent in intangible technology South Asia, and the Middle East. transfers. The seminar helped participants to In March 1999, the United States and the develop a greater understanding of the intan- DPRK held a fourth round of missile talks gible technology issue (i.e., how proliferators to underscore our strong opposition to North misuse the internet, scientific conferences, Korea’s destabilizing missile development plant visits, student exchange programs, and and export activities and press for tight con- higher education to acquire sensitive tech- straints on DPRK missile development, test- nology), and to begin to identify steps gov- ing, and exports. We also affirmed that the ernments can take to address this problem. United States viewed further launches of In July 1999, the Partners completed a re- long-range missiles and transfers of long- formatting of the MTCR Annex. The newly range missiles or technology for such missiles reformatted Annex is intended to improve as direct threats to U.S. allies and ultimately clarity and uniformity of implementation of to the United States itself. We subsequently MTCR controls while maintaining the cov- have reiterated that message at every avail- erage of the previous version of the MTCR able opportunity. In particular, we have re- Annex. minded the DPRK of the consequences of The MTCR held its Fourteenth Plenary another rocket launch and encouraged it not Meeting in Noordwijk, The Netherlands, on to take such action. We also have urged the October 11–15. At the Plenary, the Partners DPRK to take steps toward building a con- shared information about activities of missile structive bilateral relationship with the proliferation concern worldwide. They fo- United States. cussed in particular on the threat to inter- These efforts have resulted in an impor- national security and stability posed by mis- tant first step. Since September 1999, it has sile proliferation in key regions and consid- been our understanding that the DPRK will ered what practical steps they could take, in- refrain from testing long-range missiles of dividually and collectively, to address ongo- any kind during our discussions to improve ing missile-related activities of concern. Dur- relations. In recognition of this DPRK step, ing their discussions, Partners gave special the United States has announced the easing attention to DPRK missile activities and also of certain sanctions related to the import and discussed the threat posed by missile-related export of many consumer goods. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 10 2337

In response to reports of continuing Ira- Export controls are a critical part of non- nian efforts to acquire sensitive items from proliferation because every proliferant Russian entities for use in Iran’s missile and WMD/missile program seeks equipment and nuclear development programs, the United technology from other countries. States continued its high-level dialogue with Proliferators look overseas because needed Russia aimed at finding ways the United items are unavailable elsewhere, because in- States and Russia can work together to cut digenously produced items are of insufficient off the flow of sensitive goods to Iran’s ballis- quality or quantity, and/or because imported tic missile development program. During this items can be obtained more quickly and reporting period, Russia’s government cre- cheaply than producing them at home. It is ated institutional foundations to implement important to note that proliferators seek for a newly enacted nonproliferation policy and their programs both items on multilateral passed laws to punish wrongdoers. It also lists (like gyroscopes controlled on the passed new export control legislation to tight- MTCR Annex and nerve gas ingredients on en government control over sensitive tech- the Australia Group list) and unlisted items nologies and began working with the United (like lower-level machine tools and very basic States to strengthen export control practices chemicals). In addition, many of the items at Russian aerospace firms. However, despite of interest to proliferators are inherently the Russian government’s nonproliferation dual-use. For example, key ingredients and and export control efforts, some Russian enti- technologies used in the production of fer- ties continued to cooperate with Iran’s ballis- tilizers and pesticides also can be used to tic missile program and to engage in nuclear make chemical weapons; vaccine production cooperation with Iran beyond the Bushehr technology (albeit not the vaccines them- reactor project. The administrative measures selves) can assist in the production of biologi- imposed on ten Russian entities for their cal weapons. missile- and nuclear-related cooperation with The most obvious value of export controls Iran remain in effect. is in impeding or even denying proliferators Value of Nonproliferation Export access to key pieces of equipment or tech- Controls nology for use in their WMD/missile pro- United States national export controls— grams. In large part, U.S. national export both those implemented pursuant to multi- controls—and similar controls of our part- lateral nonproliferation regimes and those ners in the Australia Group, Missile Tech- implemented unilaterally—play an important nology Control Regime, and Nuclear Suppli- part in impeding the proliferation of WMD ers Group—have denied proliferators access and missiles. (As used here, ‘‘export controls’’ to the largest sources of the best equipment refer to requirements for case-by-case review and technology. Proliferators have mostly of certain exports, or limitations on exports been forced to seek less capable items from of particular items of proliferation concern nonregime suppliers. Moreover, in many in- to certain destinations, rather than broad em- stances, U.S. and regime controls and associ- bargoes or economic sanctions that also af- ated efforts have forced proliferators to en- fect trade.) As noted in this report, however, gage in complex clandestine procurements export controls are only one of a number of even from nonmember suppliers, taking time tools the United States uses to achieve its and money away from proliferant programs. nonproliferation objectives. Global non- United States national export controls and proliferation norms, informal multilateral those of our regime partners also have played nonproliferation regimes, interdicting ship- an important leadership role, increasing over ments of proliferation concern, sanctions, ex- time the critical mass of countries applying port control assistance, redirection and elimi- nonproliferation export controls. For exam- nation efforts, and robust U.S. military, intel- ple, none of the following progress would ligence, and diplomatic capabilities all work have been possible without the leadership in conjunction with export controls as part shown by U.S. willingness to be the first to of our overall nonproliferation strategy. apply controls: the seven-member MTCR of 2338 Nov. 10 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

1987 has grown to 32 member countries; sev- in part as a consequence of the economic eral nonmember countries have been per- crisis in Russia and other Newly Independent suaded to apply export controls consistent States, causing concern. My Administration with one or more of the regimes unilaterally; gives high priority to controlling the human and most of the members of the non- dimension of proliferation through programs proliferation regimes have applied national that support the transition of former Soviet ‘‘catch-all’’ controls similar to those under the weapons scientists to civilian research and U.S. Enhanced Proliferation Control Initia- technology development activities. I have tive. (Export controls normally are tied to a proposed an additional $4.5 billion for pro- specific list of items, such as the MTCR grams embodied in the Expanded Threat Re- Annex. ‘‘Catch-all’’ controls provide a legal duction Initiative that would support activi- basis to control exports of items not on a list, ties in four areas: nuclear security; non- when those items are destined for WMD/ nuclear WMD; science and technology non- missile programs.) proliferation; and military relocation, sta- United States export controls, especially bilization and other security cooperation pro- ‘‘catch-all’’ controls, also make important po- grams. Congressional support for this initia- litical and moral contributions to the non- tive would enable the engagement of a broad proliferation effort. They uphold the broad range of programs under the Departments legal obligations the United States has under- of State, Energy, and Defense. taken in the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty (Article I), Biological Weapons Convention Expenses (Article III), and Chemical Weapons Con- Pursuant to section 401(c) of the National vention (Article I) not to assist anyone in pro- Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1641 (c)), I re- scribed WMD activities. They endeavor to port that there were no specific expenses di- assure there are no U.S. ‘‘fingerprints’’ on rectly attributable to the exercise of authori- WMD and missiles that threaten U.S. citi- ties conferred by the declaration of the na- zens and territory and our friends and inter- tional emergency in Executive Order 12938, ests overseas. They place the United States as amended, during the period from May 15, squarely and unambiguously against WMD/ 1999, through November 10, 1999. missile proliferation, even against the pros- pect of inadvertent proliferation from the William J. Clinton United States itself. Finally, export controls play an important The White House, role in enabling and enhancing legitimate November 10, 1999. trade. They provide a means to permit dual- use export to proceed under circumstances where, without export control scrutiny, the Letter to Congressional Leaders on only prudent course would be to prohibit Certification of Major Drug them. They help build confidence between Producing and Transit Countries countries applying similar controls that, in November 10, 1999 turn, results in increased trade. Each of the WMD nonproliferation regimes, for exam- Dear lllll: ple, has a ‘‘no undercut’’ policy committing In accordance with the provisions of sec- each member not to make an export that an- tion 490(h) of the Foreign Assistance Act of other has denied for nonproliferation reasons 1961, as amended, I have determined that and notified to the rest—unless it first the following are major illicit drug producing consults with the original denying country. or drug transit ‘‘countries’’ (including certain Not only does this policy make it more dif- entities that are not sovereign states): Af- ficult for proliferators to get items from re- ghanistan, The Bahamas, Bolivia, Brazil, gime members, it establishes a ‘‘level playing Burma, Cambodia, China, Colombia, Do- field’’ for exporters. minican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Haiti, Hong Kong, India, Jamaica, Laos, Threat Reduction Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Panama, Para- The potential for proliferation of WMD guay, Peru, Taiwan, Thailand, Venezuela, and delivery system expertise has increased and Vietnam. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 10 2339

This year I have removed Aruba and Central America. Central America’s loca- Belize from the majors list; added Belize as tion between South America and Mexico, to- part of this year’s Central America region of gether with its thousands of miles of coast- concern; added the entire Eastern and line, several container-handling ports, the Southern Caribbean, including the Leeward Pan-American Highway, and limited law en- and Windward Islands, Aruba, and the Neth- forcement capability make the entire region erlands Antilles, as a region of concern; and a logical conduit and transhipment area for also added North Korea as a country of con- illicit drugs bound for Mexico and the United cern. States. The variance in seizure statistics from I wish to make clear that the inclusion of country to country, and their fluctuation a country or entity on the majors list does from year to year, underscore my concern not reflect an assessment of its government’s with Central America’s potential and volatile counter-drug efforts or extent of cooperation role as a transit region. For instance, Panama with the United States. For example, among and Guatemala continue to report more sei- the reasons that a transit country or entity zures than other countries in the region, is placed on the majors list is the combination while seizures to date by Costa Rica, Hon- of geographical, commercial, and/or eco- duras, and Nicaragua are below levels during nomic factors that allow drug traffickers to the same period in previous years and flow operate despite the most assiduous enforce- levels in El Salvador remain low. Taken to- ment measures of the government con- gether, these circumstances indicate a need cerned. In the case of Hong Kong and Tai- to continue to monitor the situation in Cen- wan, for instance, both entities have excellent tral America. Cuba. counter-drug records and cooperate closely While there have been some re- ports that trafficking syndicates use Cuban with the United States. land territory for moving drugs, we have yet Aruba. Aruba was designated as a major to receive any confirmation that this traffic transit country in 1997. While geography carries significant quantities of cocaine or makes Aruba, like most of the other island heroin to the United States. In particular, the countries in the Eastern and Southern Carib- intelligence and law enforcement commu- bean, a potential drug transit point, at this nities reviewed the information concerning time we do not have evidence that it is a whether the 7.2 metric ton shipment of co- major transit country for drugs bound for the caine seized in Colombia in December 1998, United States. Rather, the drug trade there in a container reportedly headed to Cuba, appears directed toward Europe. We will was destined for the United States. Their continue, however, to keep Aruba under ob- judgment remains that Spain, and not the servation together with the rest of the islands United States, was the intended final destina- in the region. tion. Belize. Belize’s geographical position next We also looked closely at the use of Cuban to Mexico on the Yucatan peninsula offers waters and airspace for transit of drugs to would-be drug smugglers an attractive cor- the United States, as the term ‘‘major drug ridor for moving drugs into Mexico and on transit country’’ is understood to apply to the to the United States. Traffickers have used land, waters, and airspace of a country over Belizean territory in previous years, when en- which sovereignty may be exercised, consist- forcement activities elsewhere enhanced the ent with international law and United States value of this route. Recently, however, we practice. Although we have detected what have detected significantly reduced drug appears to be some air and sea activity con- flows to and through Belize. sistent with trafficking patterns, this activity Therefore, I have decided to remove has decreased significantly since last year and Belize from the majors list. If future monitor- indicates a corresponding decrease in drug ing of Central America indicates a resump- flow. We continue to keep trafficking in the tion of important drug flows through Belize area under close observation and will add bound for the United States, I will again Cuba to the majors list if the evidence war- place the country on the majors list. rants. 2340 Nov. 10 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

Eastern and Southern Caribbean. The cant opium poppy cultivation in Lebanon’s Leeward and Windward Islands, together Biqa’ Valley. Recent surveys have confirmed with Aruba and the Netherlands Antilles, that there has been no detectable replanting constitute a broad geographical area through of opium poppy, and we have no evidence which drugs bound for the United States may that drugs transiting these countries signifi- pass en route from Latin America. We have cantly affect the United States. We continue, no evidence at this time, however, that any however, to keep the area under observation. of these Eastern Caribbean nations is a major Turkey and Other Balkan Route Coun- drug transit country under the statutory defi- tries. We remain concerned about the large nition. The information we do have indicates volume of Southwest Asian heroin moving that drugs moving through the area are over- through Turkey and neighboring countries to whelmingly destined for Europe. We are, Western Europe along the Balkan Route. We therefore, keeping the region under observa- have no clear evidence, however, that this tion, and I will add the relevant countries heroin significantly affects the United States to the majors list should conditions warrant. as required for a country to be designated Iran. Although Iran in the past had been a major transit country. In the event that we a traditional opium producing country, over determine that heroin transiting Turkey, Bul- the past few years the Government of Iran garia, Greece, Serbia-Montenegro, Bosnia, reported success in eradicating illicit opium Croatia, the Former Yugoslav Republic of poppy cultivation. A survey of the country Macedonia, or other European countries on this year revealed no detectable poppy cul- the Balkan Route significantly affects the tivation in the traditional growing areas. United States, I will add the relevant coun- While one cannot rule out some cultivation tries to the majors list. in remote parts of the country, it is unlikely Major Cannabis Producers. While that there would be enough to meet the Kazakastan, Kyrgyzstan, Morocco, the Phil- threshold definition of a major drug produc- ippines, and South Africa are important can- ing country. Important quantities of opiates nabis producers, we have not included them reportedly continue to transit Iran en route on the majors list since in all cases the illicit to Europe, but we have no evidence that cannabis is either consumed locally or ex- these drugs significantly affect the United ported to countries other than the United States, a requirement for designation as a States. I have determined that such illicit major drug transit country under current leg- cannabis production does not significantly af- islation. fect the United States. Malaysia. Malaysia was removed from the Central Asia. We have conducted probes majors list last year because drug flow esti- in Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, traditional mates did not indicate that drugs transiting opium poppy growing areas of the former So- the country had reached the United States viet Union. These probes have not shown sig- in significant quantities. nificant opium poppy cultivation. If ongoing North Korea. Our observations to date analysis reveals cultivation of 1,000 hectares have been unable to confirm reports that sig- or more of poppy, I will add the relevant nificant quantities of opium poppy may be countries to the majors list. under cultivation in North Korea or that her- Sincerely, oin originating in the country may be enter- William J. Clinton ing the international drug trade. We con- tinue, however, to monitor the situation. If NOTE: Identical letters were sent to Jesse Helms, we confirm that there is indeed significant chairman, and Joseph R. Biden, Jr., ranking mem- poppy cultivation, or that North Korea is a ber, Senate Committee on Foreign Relations; Ted transit point for drugs significantly affecting Stevens, chairman, and Robert C. Byrd, ranking member, Senate Committee on Appropriations; the United States, I will add the country to Benjamin A. Gilman, chairman, and Sam Gejden- the majors list. son, ranking member, House Committee on Syria and Lebanon. We removed Syria International Relations; and C.W. Bill Young, and Lebanon from the majors list 2 years ago chairman, and David R. Obey, ranking member, after we determined that there was no signifi- House Committee on Appropriations. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 10 2341

Letter to Congressional Leaders States of America and Ukraine on Mutual Transmitting a Report on Cyprus Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters with November 10, 1999 Annex, signed at Kiev on July 22, 1998. I transmit also, for the information of the Sen- Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. Chairman:) ate, an exchange of notes which was signed In accordance with Public Law 95–384 (22 on September 30, 1999, which provides for U.S.C. 2373(c)), I submit to you this report its provisional application, as well as the re- on progress toward a negotiated settlement port of the Department of State with respect of the Cyprus question covering the period to the Treaty. August 1, 1999, to September 30, 1999. The The Treaty is one of a series of modern previous submission covered events during mutual legal assistance treaties being nego- June and July 1999. tiated by the United States in order to In an official working visit to the United counter criminal activities more effectively. States, Turkish Prime Minister Ecevit and I The Treaty should be an effective tool to as- had a productive meeting on September 28. sist in the prosecution of a wide variety of We exchanged views on a number of topics, crimes, including drug trafficking offenses. including Cyprus. I emphasized that reaching The Treaty is self-executing. It provides for a just and lasting solution to the Cyprus dis- a broad range of cooperation in criminal mat- pute remains one of my highest priorities. ters. Mutual assistance available under the The Prime Minister and I agreed that there Treaty includes: taking of testimony or state- cannot be a solution to the Cyprus problem ments of persons; providing documents, that would return the situation to what it was records, and articles of evidence; serving doc- before 1974: all Cypriots must live in secu- uments; locating or identifying persons; rity. Prime Minister Ecevit supported my transferring persons in custody for testimony idea that my Special Emissary for Cyprus, or other purposes; executing requests for Alfred H. Moses, travel to the region to ex- searches and seizures; assisting in proceed- plore ways to move forward on the Cyprus ings related to restraint, confiscation, forfeit- issue, in particular by starting comprehensive ure of assets, restitution, and collection of talks with no pre-condition under U.N. aus- fines; and any other form of assistance not pices, as called for by the G–8. prohibited by the laws of the requested state. The international community mourned the I recommend that the Senate give early death of Greek Alternate Foreign Minister and favorable consideration to the Treaty and Kranidiotis. His passing is a true loss for give its advice and consent to ratification. Greece and Cyprus. William J. Clinton Sincerely, The White House, William J. Clinton November 10, 1999.

NOTE: Identical letters were sent to J. Dennis NOTE: An original was not available for verifica- Hastert, Speaker of the House of Representatives, tion of the content of this message. and Jesse Helms, chairman, Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. Remarks at a National Coalition of Minority Business Award Dinner Message to the Senate Transmitting November 10, 1999 the Ukraine-United States Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Thank you very much. Thank you. Whew, Matters With Documentation this is a pretty rowdy crowd tonight. We may November 10, 1999 have to sing that song before we’re done. [Laughter] To the Senate of the United States: Chairman Garrett, when you were sort of With a view to receiving the advice and introducing Weldon, and you kept reading consent of the Senate to ratification, I trans- all those quotes about his influence, and this, mit herewith the Treaty Between the United that, and the other thing—and I thought, this 2342 Nov. 10 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 can all be distilled in one sentence: Bill Clin- there. And a person who used to be a part ton does what he asked him to. [Laughter] of this administration who had a lot to do I want to thank Weldon and Mel for having with ‘‘mead it, don’t end it,’’ and a lot of other me here. And I want to thank you, Chairman good things, Deval Patrick. Thank you for Garrett, and the board and all of you who being here tonight. Bless you, sir. made this dinner possible tonight. I want to And thank you for acknowledging Minyon thank the members of the administration Moore, my political director; and Ben John- who are here. Secretary Slater—do you know son who runs our One America office; and what I thought about when Secretary Slater my good friend Ernie Green. I tell you, I got up to read Reverend Jackson’s letter? If wish every one of you had been in the White Jesse had known Rodney was going to read House yesterday for that Gold Medal cele- for him, he probably would have come back bration for the Little Rock Nine. It was one for fear that Rodney would read it better of the most moving things that I have ever than he would. [Laughter] I’ll pay for that had the opportunity to be involved in. [Ap- later. [Laughter] plause] Thank you. I want to tell you, I think Reverend Jack- I want to also acknowledge the Members son is where he ought to be tonight, and you of Congress here tonight that I believe are should know that he’s been with me every here; Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard; step of the two new markets tours we have Congressman Rube´n Hinojosa, my good taken, and it’s been a great joy. We’ve been friend from south Texas; Congressman John friends for many years. I can still remember Conyers is here, obviously. when we ate french fries in the kitchen of And I want to pay special recognition to the Arkansas Governor’s mansion, more than one other person who is here, because he’s a decade ago, and talked about how foolish up for reelection next year; he needs your it was that we weren’t trying to include all help, and he is one of the most courageous Americans in the economic mainstream of Members of the United States Congress. If our life. And he was on this road before I ever we had a friend who deserves to be re- was, and I’m glad that we’re walking it to- elected, it’s Senator Chuck Robb from Vir- gether now. ginia. And I want to ask him to stand up. I want to thank Secretary Alexis Herman Thank you. [Applause] He may well be the and Aida Alvarez for their leadership. There greatest Virginia—greatest Governor Vir- are others here in this administration—Alvin ginia had since Thomas Jefferson, in his Brown does a wonderful job for the Vice record in education and in so many other President and for me, leading our empower- ways. We served together, and I have seen ment zones and enterprise community initia- him cast vote after vote in the Senate, know- tive. And one of the things I want to com- ing that it might cost him his seat. And he pliment him on is that we just got—among just gets up every day and does what he the victories in this last-minute budget proc- thinks is right. He deserves the support of ess is we’ve now fully funded the second every thinking person in America who cares round of empowerment zones to give more about the direction of the United States Sen- poor communities opportunities. Thank you, ate. He’s got a hard fight. I believe he’s going Alvin. to win, but he has to have all kinds of help, I told Aida Alvarez that if Weldon really financial, vote, and otherwise, to win. And had the guts to tell Erskine Bowles that she I want to urge you to support him in every was the best Administrator of the SBA, we way you can. Thank you. [Applause] could all enjoy his misery tonight—[laugh- I’m told that Mayor David Dinkins from ter]—because you have done a wonderful New York is here tonight. If he’s here, or job. And there are others who are here. Bill was here, anyway—and if you’re not here, Lann Lee, the head of the Civil Rights Divi- I still think you’re great. [Laughter] You’ve sion; thank you, sir, for your leadership. And heard this speech before. I see Dave Barram, the Government’s land- I thank you for this award. You know, I lord, GSA; thank you for what you have done always feel generally that Presidents here. And Fred Hochberg, at the SBA, out shouldn’t receive awards, that having the job Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 10 2343 is award enough. But I confess I kind of like nition of the Scriptures to be doers of the this one. [Laughter] And I’m going to put Word and not hearers only. it on my desk in the Oval Office tomorrow, Twelve years ago, or in the 12 years before so you’ll begin to see it on television, and the Vice President and I came here, we had you’ll know how much I like it. a very different view, I think, of ourselves You told that joke about ‘‘Lift Every Voice as a country, which dominated Washington, and Sing.’’ I remember one time Vernon Jor- and a very different economic philosophy. dan and I sang that song to a group of unbe- But in the end, by 1992, it had brought us lieving people on Martha’s Vineyard. [Laugh- to a place where we had economic distress ter] You know, this is all beginning to cause and social division, with a Government that me some difficulty. Last night I spoke to a had been discredited by the people who were Hispanic Democratic dinner, and I was intro- running it, who said the Government was the duced by my friend Miguel Lausell from problem. And even though along the way I Puerto Rico. And he stood up and said, ‘‘This thought they did some quite good things— President has a Latino soul.’’ [Laughter] And standing up against communism, signing the not long ago, Toni Morrison said that I was— Americans with Disabilities Act—but all the Toni Morrison, the Pulitzer Prize-winning time telling us that the Government was the African-American writer, said that I was the problem. And also defying the basic laws of first black President America had ever had. arithmetic when it came to doing our budget. [Laughter] So I thought to myself, now I’ll [Laughter] never be able to go home to Ireland. What So in 1992, Vice President Gore and I am I going to do? [Laughter] asked the American people to give us a All of this that we’re laughing about really chance to put people first, to be driven by stems from something I deeply believe. I be- a vision of opportunity for all, but respon- lieve it about America, but I believe it about sibility from all Americans. I always thought, every person’s journey through life. We all contrary to the prevailing political rhetoric, struggle, and we all fail. But we all struggle that most people wanted to be responsible to live a life of integrity, which means literally and would respond to a challenge to do that we are integrated, that our mind and that—and to build a community of increas- our body and our spirit are in the same place ingly diverse Americans. at the same time, centered and connected We had some new ideas about the econ- to other human beings. And I’ve always be- omy, about welfare, about crime, about the lieved that, in so many ways, the purpose of environment, about national service, about politics is to find a unifying vision that will America’s role in the world. And with the allow people to release the barriers that keep help of a lot of you here, the American peo- them from one another so they can join ple gave us a chance to try our ideas. And hands and enhance our common destiny. after 7 years, the results are in. And I am It’s been a privilege to serve. I don’t really very grateful that we have the longest peace- deserve any awards. I got to be President, time expansion in our history. By February and it’s the greatest honor that any American it will be the longest economic expansion in could ever have. Your success is the greatest American history, including the Second award I could get, because of the mission World War and World War I and the times of our country, the eternal mission of our we were fully mobilized. Nearly 20 million country is to deepen the meaning of our free- new jobs; a 30-year low in unemployment; dom and widen the circle of opportunity and a 32-year low in the welfare rolls; a 25-year strengthen the bonds of our community. And low in the crime rate; 20-year low in the pov- it turns out that trying to make sure that ev- erty rates; the first time we’ve had back-to- erybody shares in our prosperity is not only back budget surpluses in 42 years, with the the morally right thing to do, it’s good for smallest Federal Government in 37 years. all the rest of America, too—which is why You’ve been a part of that. That’s the Amer- all these businesses are here tonight. So we ica you have made because you have been have come a long way by following the admo- given a chance to make it. And you should 2344 Nov. 10 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 be very proud of yourselves for the role you is. You know that. You know the record of played in it. our appointments to the Federal Bench and Along the way, we tried to make sure that the efforts to increase the effectiveness of people who worked 40 hours a week and had the Equal Employment Opportunity Com- kids in their homes should not be poor. So mission. We’ve also, I might add, tried to we doubled the earned-income tax credit and make sure that people who have different po- cut taxes for 15 million working Americans, litical views than mine had their rights re- raised the minimum wage, and I hope we’re spected, that all Federal employees were citi- about to raise it again. We passed the Brady zens and could be citizens, that the religious bill, which has now kept 400,000 people with convictions of Federal employees and chil- criminal or other problem histories from get- dren in our schools could have the widest ting handguns, giving us the lowest murder possible protection. So I haven’t tried just rate in 30 years. to bring into this tent of one America people We fought for and won an increase in chil- who will vote for me at the next election, dren’s health coverage that will enable us, but all people who should feel that they have I hope and believe, over the next year or so, a place at America’s table. to cover 5 million more children with health But we have made a special effort on the insurance. Ninety percent of our kids are im- economic front to help people who have tra- munized against serious childhood diseases, ditionally been left behind. We’ve increased for the very first time in our history. We’ve by 21⁄2 times the number of small business expanded Head Start, and the family and loans to African-American entrepreneurs, medical leave law has now enabled over 15 and by 21⁄2 times the number of SBA loans million Americans to take a little time off to Hispanic entrepreneurs since 1992. And from work without losing their jobs when a beneath those economic statistics that I just baby is born or a parent is sick. ran off—the 30 years, 30 years, 20 years— We’ve opened the doors of higher edu- I wish you all could remember that and just cation with the HOPE scholarship and other tell everybody between now and the next tax credits and more Pell grant fundings and election—[laughter]—we have the lowest tax deductibility for interest on student loans. levels ever recorded of African-American The air is cleaner; the water is cleaner; the poverty and child poverty, the lowest His- food is safer. We set aside more land in pro- panic poverty rate in a generation, the lowest tected areas than any administration in the female unemployment rate—listen to this— history of this country, except those of Frank- lowest female unemployment rate in 46 lin and Theodore Roosevelt. years, and the lowest African-American and One hundred and fifty thousand young Hispanic unemployment rates ever recorded Americans, and some not so young, have en- since we started separate statistics in the tered the AmeriCorps program and served 1970’s. in their communities all across America, solv- Now, I think the important question is, ing problems and working with people, help- what do we intend to do with this. You know, ing children, dealing with natural disasters, I worked as hard as I could, and I will con- rebuilding dilapidated housing, doing any tinue to every day for the next 430-some odd number of things to make our country a bet- days I have to be President, to keep this ter place. And we have made a clear commit- country going in the right direction, to build ment to building one America in the 21st that bridge to the 21st century we talked century. about in 1996. A nation is almost like a vast We’ve tried to reach out, I might add, in ocean liner out in the Pacific somewhere. To ways that are not always apparent. You know, turn it around, you can’t do it on a dime; and you’ve made—I like that joke about how it takes time. And we’ve worked hard for 7 my administration doesn’t look like the one years, and the country is moving in the right on ‘‘West Wing.’’ I don’t recognize that direction. The question is, what are we going White House, you know? [Laughter] It’s a to do with it? cute show, but it ought to be more diverse, This is the only time in my lifetime that because America is. And our administration we have had this level of economic strength, Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 10 2345 free of any pressing domestic crisis or foreign ing through the site. Many of them, I learned threat, so that we literally can look ahead into from the company people, used to be on wel- this new millennium and say, what would we fare. So we know that it makes a huge dif- like America to be for our children and our ference, and yet we know there’s a digital grandchildren? Because as good as things divide out there. The Vice President and I are, we know two things. We know, number have worked hard to close it in the schools. one, nothing stays the same forever, good or Four years ago, we had only 4 percent of bad. So like all moments, this one will pass. our schools and classrooms connected to the Something will happen sometime down the Internet. Now 51 percent are, and we’re try- road. Nothing stays the same forever. The ing to make sure 100 percent are by the end second thing we know is, we know right now of next year. We’re getting close. But there that we have some big challenges still out are kids out there in schools that cannot be there. I’ll mention some I won’t talk about wired because they are so old and in such tonight in any detail, but just you ought to disrepair. Forty percent of the schools in think about them. We know right now that New York are over 70 years old. Some of the number of people over 65 is going to them are still heated by coal. The average double in the next 30 years, and we’ll only age of school buildings in Philadelphia is 65 have two people working for every one per- years. And I could go on and on. I was in son drawing Social Security. We have to de- a little town in Florida not very long ago, cide right now whether we’re going to deal a little town, where there were 12 trailers with that. out behind the grade school. So this is a chal- We know right now that Medicare is sup- lenge; we know about this. posed to run out of money in 15 years and I know, and I hope that you believe, that that 75 percent of the elderly people in this there is really an environmental challenge country can’t afford prescription drugs. We know right now—children bigger than the that the whole world faces in this climate baby boom generation, and they’re much, change business and that if we continue to much more diverse. In Senator Robb’s home warm the climate at this rate, at some time State, just across the river from the White in the next century the water levels will rise House, the Alexandria school district has as the polar ice caps melt. The sugarcane children from 180 different racial and ethnic fields in Louisiana will be flooded; much of groups whose parents speak 100 different the Florida Everglades will be flooded; some languages. One school district. And we know island nations could disappear. And the that while we have the best system of higher whole quality of life in America could be education in the world, and this administra- changed. The distribution of agricultural op- tion has succeeded, literally, in opening the portunity could be irrevocably altered. doors of college to everybody who is willing But we also know that you don’t have to to work for it now, no one can seriously assert burn more greenhouse gases to get rich any- that every one of our children is getting a more, as a nation. It’s not necessary. There world-class education, kindergarten through are technological advances that are now avail- 12th grade. And we know if we really want able, and those that will soon be available, to have one America, we have to deal with which will enable us to totally change that. that. Congressman Conyers and I went to the De- We know right now that people who are troit auto show together, and we looked at connected to the Internet and are computer- automobiles that use mixed gasoline and literate and understand that have big eco- electrical engines that will soon become com- nomic advantages. Even poor people get big mercially available, that get 70 miles a gallon, economic advantages. I learned in northern and that can be economical even at presently California last week that this company, relatively low gasoline prices. But we have eBay—I bet a lot of you have bought things to—we know that. from eBay, you know eBay—you know there We know that in the future we’ll have to are now over 20,000 people making a living deal with the challenges from terrorists and off eBay? Not working for the company; trad- drugrunners and organized criminals around 2346 Nov. 10 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 the world, and they’ll increasingly work to- our children and our grandchildren down by gether, and they will use the very things that not looking into the future and saying, here we’re using—the Internet and technology are the big challenges facing this country, and the openness of borders—against us. We and we intend to meet them. know that. What are we going to do about And I just want to mention two more. it? Number one is there are people in places I say all these things not to alarm anyone, which still have not participated in this pros- but to say that we know right now what most perity. That’s what the Vice President’s em- of the large challenges of the next 30 years ployment zones and enterprise community will be, and right now, for the first time in initiative has been all about. That’s why we my lifetime, we have the prosperity and the worked hard to establish these community confidence and the coherence to deal with development financial institutions that some them. But they require decisions. of you have participated in. That’s why we I said yesterday, when we were celebrating worked so hard to enforce the Community Ernie and the other members of the Little Reinvestment Act and then to save it in this Rock Nine, that the things that those kids last banking legislation, because 95 percent did when they walked up the steps and into of all the lending ever made under that 22- the schools, and they were abused and they year-old law has happened since this admin- were run off and they went through this trial, istration has been in office. is they forced everybody else to make a deci- And that’s what this new markets initiative sion. Before that I was like everybody else; is all about. We will never have every single I thought segregation was a terrible thing, neighborhood in an employment zone; we but I never had to really speak about it. I can only pick those that have their act to- was 11 years old; what the heck did it matter gether and have the biggest problems and to me? I was more worried about when re- try to make the fairest judgments we can. cess was, or something. You know, it was just But what I have sought to do by going around the way things were. But sometimes when the country is to say, look, there are all these people act, they change everything. And ev- other places, and shouldn’t we at least give erybody had to make a decision then. Be- investors in America the same incentives to cause there it was. Well, that’s where we are invest in poor areas in America we give them now. Except there is no crisis, so we don’t to invest in poor areas in Latin America or have to make a decision. We can just wander Africa or Asia? I support American invest- on and not deal with this. ment around the world. I am trying to pass Now, how many times in your personal right now the Africa trade bill and the Carib- life, in your family life, or in your business bean Basin initiative before this Congress life, have you made a mistake because you goes home. But I believe that the most im- thought things were going so well you could portant markets we have are the untapped afford to be distracted, diverted, or indul- markets still in this country that need to be gent? How many times? It happens to every- developed. body. There’s not a person in this room it So I ask you to think about that. You’d hasn’t happened to. It is human nature. be amazed—again, this is another example And so I say to you, the greatest honor where doing—what the right thing to do is I could have is to know that you will work also good for the rest of America. You would with me for the next 430-some odd days and be amazed how much time we have spent that you will continue to work to make sure over the last year and a half figuring out how that we do not blow this precious moment. can we keep this economic expansion going. This is an incredible opportunity and an All previous economic expansions have come enormous responsibility. And it’s never hap- to an end either because the economy gets pened in my lifetime, ever. Not once have so heated up that we get inflation—and then we ever had this much prosperity, this much when you break the inflation, the medicine confidence, and the absence of a pressing, to break the inflation is so strong, it breaks convulsing domestic crisis or foreign threat. the recovery—or because the recovery just And we will never forgive ourselves if we let runs out of steam. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 10 2347

Now, we’ve kept this one going, largely right? We worked it out. So now we just kept thanks to you and people like you. Thirty per- on working at it, and we worked it out. But cent of it has been powered by technology; what is the signal measure of our progress? 30 percent of it, until this Asian financial col- We kept finding ways to bring more and lapse, was powered by exports. Traditional more and more people into the circle of free- economic theory dramatically underesti- dom and opportunity. And then their minds mated the impact of technology to increase figured out how to maximize the benefits of productivity and underestimated the impact the Industrial Revolution, how to provide of open markets in holding down inflation. mass education, how to integrate immigrants So we can keep it going. But to keep it from all over the world into the mainstream going, with unemployment at 4.1 percent, of American life. what have we got to do? If you go into a This one America deal is much bigger than neighborhood in an inner city, if you go into just sort of, feel good; let’s all be nice; don’t an abandoned small town that lost its factory anybody be prejudiced or say anything at a and has nothing left, if you go into a Native dinner party you’d be embarrassed by. American reservation—Pine Ridge Reserva- [Laughter] And, to be serious, it’s much tion in South Dakota, there are plenty of more than being tough on people who com- smart people up there. I walked up and down mit hate crimes, although I badly want that the street with a 17-year-old girl that is as hate crimes legislation to pass. It is an under- intelligent as any high school child I’ve talked standing about the way we should live if we to since I’ve been President. But they have all want to do well. It is in the nature of 73 percent unemployment. That is wasted the American idea and the core of what it human potential. And if you invest there, you means to be a human being. create new businesses, new jobs, and new Isn’t it interesting to you—I mean, do you consumers and new taxpayers, and you grow ever think about this? We continue to have the economy without inflation, by definition, these horrible hate crime incidents in Amer- because you are getting both new producers ica, and then we see these other countries and new consumers. This is the right thing convulsed by the tribal slaughter in Rwanda; to do for the people that are there. It’s the the awful, terrible treatment of the Kosovar right thing to do for the rest of us because Albanian Muslims in Kosovo; the treatment we want this ride to go on just as long as of the Bosnian Muslims in Bosnia; the con- it can. tinuing conflict among the Catholics and the The other thing I want to say is, if I could Protestants in Ireland which we’re trying to leave America with one legacy, and some- bring to an end; the continuing conflict in body said to me tonight, ‘‘Well, you’re going the Middle East. What is the common ele- to have to go now, and we’ll give you one ment in that and the hate crimes? wish’’—you know, the genie deal—[laugh- It is that, for all of the wonders of the mod- ter]—‘‘But you don’t get three wishes; you ern world, we’re most bedeviled as societies just get one,’’ I’d still pick one America. by the oldest problem of folks living together: Why? Because I think when we’re getting We still have a hard time with people who along and when we’re not just tolerating each aren’t like us, you know, have a hard time other, but when we respect and like each with people that aren’t like us. And yet, the other, when we’ve got a framework for deal- truth is, when we get over it and let it go, ing with our honest differences that enables we find that life is a lot more interesting than them to be worked out without everybody it used to be. I told somebody last night, the falling out, the American people nearly al- first time I went to a Cinco de Mayo celebra- ways get it right. I mean, why do you think tion in San Francisco, I thought, where has we’re around here after over 220 years? Look this been all my life? [Laughter] Man, I like at all the stuff we’ve weathered. I mean, we this. Where has this been? I like this. So had these Founding Fathers who said we’re we’re laughing, but there’s a grain of truth all created equal, and they were slaveholders. here. Why do American Christians buy books And even white guys couldn’t vote if they by the Dalai Lama in record numbers, about didn’t own property, never mind the women, the ethics of the new millennium? Because 2348 Nov. 10 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 he has a very important piece of the truth, of the Brown Foundation as embodied in and he has very important peace inside. Patrick’s remarks, and the work that Mr. Tru- So I say to you, look for the unifying vision jillo has done as embodied in those two and continue to work for it. And be clear young people, because that’s really what and focused on the magic moment in which we’re here about. we live. Be humble enough to know it will I want to thank all of you for being here, not last forever; it is not in the nature of and many members of the administration human affairs. And if you really want to who are here—Secretary Slater; Secretary honor what you have done and the spirit of Herman; Maria Echaveste, my Deputy Chief this award, which you have so kindly given of Staff; Minyon Moore, my Political Direc- me, make the most of this moment. It is the tor; Ben Johnson who runs our One America chance of a lifetime to build a future of our office; Dave Barram at the General Services dreams. Administration; and maybe many more peo- Thank you. ple. I know Fred Humphries is here, who now works for US West, but once worked NOTE: The President spoke at 8:16 p.m. in the in my campaign. I’m glad that didn’t dis- Corcoran Ballroom at the Four Seasons Hotel. In his remarks, he referred to James F. Garrett, qualify him for employment in your com- chair, and Weldon Latham, general counsel, Na- pany. [Laughter] tional Coalition of Minority Business; Melvin Most of what needs to be said has been Clark, president and chief executive officer, said. I’d like to be very personal, if I might. Metroplex Corporation; civil rights leader Rev. I have just to the right of my desk in the Jesse Jackson; Ernest Green, one of the Little Oval Office, right behind the commemora- Rock Nine; attorney Vernon Jordan, long-time tive pin that was issued for Nelson Mandela’s friend of the President; and Miguel Lausell, chair, 80th birthday, a picture of Ron Brown and Hispanic Leadership Council. A tape was not me sharing a funny moment. We shared a available for verification of the content of these remarks. lot of funny moments. and we’re laughing. And sometimes I find myself almost talking to this picture. I confess that there are a lot Remarks at Ronald H. Brown of times when I just miss him terribly. Corporate Bridge Builder Award Yesterday we gave—Ernie Green is Dinner here—yesterday we gave a Congressional November 10, 1999 Gold Medal to the Little Rock Nine. And Ernie and I have been friends for more than I was just sitting here—out there—won- 20 years. All the Little Rock Nine, because dering, Michael, if I need to stand up here I was Governor of Arkansas, I’ve known for and announce that I’m changing parties, so many years. And it was an incredibly emo- that you don’t lose your tax-exempt status for tional moment. And I was sitting up there the foundation—[laughter]—I’d do nearly on the little stage at the White House, with anything for Alma and you and Tracey and tears in my eyes. And one of the things I Ron—I don’t think I can quite get there, was thinking is, gosh, this is another thing but—[laughter]. I wish Ron were sitting here for. He ought You know, I had a feeling—the reason I to be here for this. asked for the children to speak—they’re And I was thinking when I saw Mayor young adults, I guess—is that after Patrick Dinkins out there, who was a great friend spoke so beautifully, and then after Sol spoke of Ron Brown, how we all got started in New so powerfully, I figured, well, what the heck, York in ’92. You brought Nelson Mandela to they’ve already heard the best speeches of meet me the first time. You remember that? the night anyway. [Laughter] And what great friends we all became. And I wanted you to hear them because I think I was thinking before I came over here to- it’s important that you see flesh-and-blood night—I called the Speaker of the House and examples of why Mr. Trujillo and his com- Senator Lott and pleaded with them—and pany were honored tonight. And I think it’s I don’t use that word lightly—to do whatever important that you see examples of the work we could possibly do to pass the Africa trade Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 10 2349 bill and the Caribbean Basin initiative before and to see it reach deep into America—to this Congress goes home for Thanksgiving minority business people who had been left and Christmas. And that issue wouldn’t even behind—and to see this great, sort of unify- be on the agenda if it weren’t for Ron Brown. ing vision and all this energy he had make I was thinking about the incredible con- the thing fly. It was an amazing thing to see. versation I had when I talked Ron into being And as Sol pointed out in his ungracious Secretary of Commerce. He thought it was reminder of that basketball game in Los An- a backwater for political appointees who geles—[laughter]—we had a lot of fun, too. wanted something else. [Laughter] And I And so I really miss him in ways, large and said, ‘‘You don’t understand.’’ I said, ‘‘I made small, at the strangest times. I just do. up my mind that I’m not going to give any But tonight I come here, and I see these of these political jobs to people who can’t pictures, and I want to smile, not cry. Be- do them.’’ And if you—one of the—I be- cause if we all live to be 100, it’s just a brief lieve—let me just back up and say, I believe blink of the eye in the whole sweep of human that when the history of this administration history. And none of us knows whether we is written, one of the things even our critics have tomorrow or not. And if we do, it’s a will give us credit for is having not only a gift. And most of us, or we wouldn’t be here good economic policy but a good way of mak- tonight in the first place, most of us, whatever ing economic policy. happens to us from now on, we’re going to And I discovered when I became Presi- go out of this world ahead. dent—we have Jim Harmon here, the head And so I think the most important thing of the Export-Import Bank—that all these I can say to you tonight is that he’d be very little orbits were out there. You had the pleased that we’re here honoring his legacy Treasury Department here, and you had the by, number one, permitting this foundation Commerce Department there, and you had to bring young people into politics because the Export-Import Bank and the Overseas he thought it was good, politics and public Private Investment Corporation over there. service, and it is—and if it weren’t good, we You had all these things spread out. And so wouldn’t still be here after over 220 years— it was just like sort of a roll of the dice wheth- and number two, because he believed in er you had somebody who was really good commerce, and he thought that economic and then whether that person ever got the growth and economic opportunity was some- President’s ear. thing more than mere materialism. And so we organized a National Economic The fact that we have the lowest unem- Council. And Bob Rubin was the first leader ployment rate in 30 years and the lowest wel- of it, before he became Treasury Secretary, fare rolls in 32 years and the lowest crime when Senator Bentsen was Treasury Sec- rate in 25 years, those things are not unre- retary. And we put all these people together, lated one to the other. The fact that we are including Secretary Herman’s Labor Depart- moving in the right direction on all fronts ment, to make sure that working people were is, in part, the result of the expansion of eco- not cut out. And we all worked together. And nomic opportunity to the lowest African- Secretary Slater’s Transportation Depart- American poverty rates and unemployment ment was part of it, because that’s a huge rates ever recorded, the lowest Hispanic un- impact on our economy. employment rate ever recorded, and the low- And the Commerce Department is this est Hispanic poverty rate in a quarter cen- vast Department. And once Ron Brown got tury. Those things are not unrelated. a hold of that empire he found that he liked He understood the dignity of work, the it right well. [Laughter] And he discovered dignity of enterprise, the dignity of achieve- that there were a lot of things he could do ment, and the importance of giving every- with it. And it was truly a thing of beauty, body a chance at the brass ring. And those for those of us who love public service and of us who have been left behind have tried politics, to see Ron run the Commerce De- to carry on that work in various ways. partment and to see it come alive and to see I just want to say one thing here. Our lead- it reach out for America all around the world er, Senator Daschle, is here, our Democratic 2350 Nov. 10 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 leader in the Senate. Not a thing I have done to double the number of people over 65 in could have been done if he hadn’t been with the next 30 years, and we haven’t made sure me every step of the way—not a thing. Social Security will take care of the whole So we honor young people, and the work baby boom generation. We know that Medi- of Ron Brown and this foundation. And we care is going to run out of money, and 75 honor this great company because most peo- percent of our seniors don’t have prescription ple in America don’t work for the Govern- drugs. ment, and most of the economy is not the We know we’ve got the biggest group of Government. And I’m very proud that in ad- school children in history, and they’re more dition to having the longest peacetime expan- diverse than ever before. And while we’ve sion in history, we have the highest percent- opened the doors to college to all Americans age of jobs created in the private sector, not now with the HOPE scholarship, the in- the public sector, in the last 50 years of any creased Pell grants, the deductibility of stu- economic expansion. dent loan interests, nobody thinks that every But in order to make it work, we have to child in America is getting a world-class ele- have corporate leaders who either have the vision, just because they do, of a unified mentary and secondary education, and we America, or have both the vision and the per- know they need it. sonal experiences that this great leader has You heard that very powerful presentation shared with us tonight from his own life. And by Shayla about going to the computers after that’s a good thing. school because of what you did. We had a So I ask you to think just about three percent of our classrooms connected to the things before we all go home tonight. We Internet 4 years ago—we have a member of have the most prosperous time in my lifetime the FCC here, Susan Ness; thank you for and the only time in my lifetime we’ve ever the E-rate which allows poor schools to af- had this level of prosperity and this level of ford to get into the Internet. And now we’re confidence and no pressing domestic crisis up to 51 percent. We’re going to try to get or foreign threat to disturb our daily endeav- to 100 percent. But there are a bunch of ors. So the question I have for you—this is these kids that will never get their schools one time when I miss Ron and his energy— connected because the schools are so old and is, what are we going to do with this? Because decrepit, they cannot be wired. we know from the ups and downs in our own In Mayor Dinkins’ hometown 40 percent lives that nothing lasts forever. Nothing bad of the schools are 70 years old or older. We lasts forever. Nothing good last forever. have schools in New York City that are heat- Nothing lasts forever. So we have this mo- ed by coal in the winter, still. So we know ment, the only time in my lifetime we’ve ever these things. been like this. What are we going to do with We know we’ve got a big environmental it? challenge in global warming. We can deny I have been saying to the American people, it all we want to, but we’ve got the technology if you sit around and think about it, how to grow economics without burning up the many times had you had a moment like this in your personal life or your family life or environment, and we’re either going go do your business life, where things were just it or not. rocking along great, and then something bad So what I want to say to you is, this is happened because you didn’t make the most a moment where we have to decide. And we of the moment. Instead you indulged your- need people of high energy and vision to re- self or you got distracted or diverted, or you mind us that we have to decide. You ought thought you didn’t really have to deal with to go home tonight and ask yourself, what these things that you knew were out there. do you think the—no fewer than 5, no more We know what’s out there for us. We know than 10 biggest challenges are our country the big challenges. We know the big opportu- will face in the next 30 years. I bet if we nities. These children’s lives have told us could all gather tomorrow night, there would some of them tonight. We know we’re going be 80 percent congruence in our list. We Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 10 2351 know what the big opportunities and chal- gram that Vice President Gore has so bril- lenges are out there. The issue is, what are liantly run the last few years that’s brought we going to do about it? a lot of economic opportunity to discreet Are we going to just sort of rock along and places in America. But what I want to do say, ‘‘Boy, this is peachy-keen, and I’m glad?’’ with this new markets initiative is, two things: Well, I’m not going to rock along. I’ve got I want to point up all these places in America 430-some days to be President, and I’m going that we ought to be investing in, and I want to hit it every day I can. But I won’t be Presi- to give Americans the same incentives to in- dent after that. But what I want to say to vest in developing areas in America we give you is, in the coming election season and in them to invest in developing areas in Latin the coming years of work we have here ahead America and Africa and Asia. I want you to of us, and in you own work, you have to de- invest overseas, but our first and biggest and cide. You know—if you just stop and think, best new markets are here at home. you know what the big challenges and the You know, Senator Daschle and I were in big opportunities for America are. This is the South Dakota the other day, and we went only time in my lifetime we’ve ever had the to the Pine Ridge Reservation. And I was— chance to build the future of our dreams a lot of the tour I made through the reserva- without a pressing domestic crisis or a threat tion I was escorted by this beautiful 17-year- to our national security. And if you believe old Native American girl, who was just as in what Ron Brown lived for, you will do articulate and intelligent—and very wise, I that, and you won’t blow the chance. might add, because she had a very tough life. The second thing I’d like to say is—I want I mean, a very tough life. But I thought to to say this out of respect particularly to what myself, why shouldn’t this child have the Beau said when he was up here talking about same opportunities that my daughter’s had. his people from Montana. We now have the And if she had them, what in the world could chance, and maybe the only chance, in our she do with them, not only for herself but lifetime to extend economic opportunity to for her people. the people in places that have been left be- hind. Yes, we’ve got the lowest unemploy- Do you know what the unemployment rate ment rate and the lowest minority unemploy- on the Pine Ridge Reservation is—73 per- ment rate we’ve ever recorded. That’s the cent. Now, the national unemployment rate good news. The bad news is you know as is 4.1 percent. I think it’s even lower in South well as I do that there are people in places Dakota. The female unemployment rate of that have been totally left behind. the 4.1 percent is the lowest it’s been in 46 Alma, you talked about New York. You years. But you still have these pockets. know, if you took away New York City and And if Ron Brown were here, I know what the suburban counties, and you only had up- he’d be telling you. He’d be saying, now, I state New York, it would rank 49th in job want you to hustle up some investment for growth of all the States in the country. That’s these areas, and we’re going to try to get you hard to believe. You don’t think that about a tax break, but you ought to do it whether New York. We’re talking about Syracuse, you get one or not because it’s a huge oppor- Rochester, Buffalo, Albany, places with great tunity, in the inner cities, in Appalachia, in infrastructures of education and talented the Mississippi Delta, on the Native Amer- people but where a lot of the economy ican reservations. moved, and it’s not been replenished. You would be amazed how much time we Hawaii, a place that we all think of as a spend now with our economic team sitting place where we go for fun and everything around thinking, how can we keep this good is peachy-keen, the only State in the country ride going; how long can we push this expan- that hasn’t had economic growth in the last sion out? We know that technology gave us 21⁄2 years because of the collapse of the Asian greater productivity than the economists economies. know, and that’s part of the reason for the That’s why I started this new markets ini- expansion. We know we got 30 percent of tiative, to build on the employment zone pro- our growth out of technology, another 30 2352 Nov. 10 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 percent out of exports. How long can it keep If you really strip away what everybody going? says about Ron Brown, everybody that really All other economic expansions have ended knows him just liked him because they in one or two ways. Things get so heated up thought he loved life. If you see somebody that there’s inflation; then you have to stop that loves life and loves people, it’s hard to the inflation, and the price of breaking the dislike them, because it’s contagious. inflation breaks the recovery. Or it just runs And if I could just have my little one wish, out of steam. This thing just is chugging I would say, if you look at the whole history along. How can we keep it going? of America, we kept on going because we If you invest in these areas that have been kept on widening the circle of opportunity left behind, you create new businesses, new and deepening the meaning of freedom and jobs, and new consumers. And when you do moving closer toward one America. that, you don’t have any inflation because When we started, we had all these guys you’ve got new production and new con- that wrote this Constitution say, ‘‘We’re all sumption. This is a big deal. created equal, and God made it so. But, oh, The third thing I’d like to say—and I can’t by the way, we’ve got slavery, and it’s un- say it any more eloquently than Sol Trujillo thinkable that women could vote, and we’re already said—is—and I told the group next not even going to let white guys vote unless door—if someone said to me, ‘‘You’ve got to they own land.’’ We’ve come a long way since go now. You’ve had a good time being Presi- then, right? I mean, we started—even I dent, but your time is up. And we’ll give you couldn’t have voted; my people wouldn’t one wish,’’ and the proverbial genie showed have been landowners. We’d have been hired up. But I didn’t get three wishes. I just got help. So we’ve come a long way. one. [Laughter] I’d probably mess it up if But if you look around the world today, I had three, you know. [Laughter] I got one. if you look at these horrible hate crimes in I would say, remember these children to- America, and you look around the world night, all three of them. Remember the pow- today, from Kosovo and Bosnia to Rwanda erful example of this great corporate execu- to the Middle East to Northern Ireland, the tive and what he said about how he got his whole world is still bedeviled in this high start and how many times he could have been technology age by the most primitive prob- stopped. lem of human society: We’re still kind of I would say the most important thing scared of one another. We don’t deal with would be for us to genuinely build one Amer- people who are different from us as well as ica, not just to tolerate one another, not just we should. And we might rock along doing to avoid saying insensitive things, things that all right for years and then turn on a dime. would embarrass you at a cocktail party or That’s what happened in Rwanda. Just turn something, and on a more serious note, not on a dime. even to eliminate all the hate crimes, al- So I say to you, I want you to think about though I dearly want to do that and I hope this. When you go home tonight I want you to pass the hate crimes legislation—but I to think about what it would be like in 20 mean an America where we looked at each years to hear Patrick standing where Senator other and we thought: Hey, look around this Daschle is. I want you to think about what room; this is one great deal here; we’re not it would be like if Shala headed a program tolerating each other; we’re celebrating each that gave every single child who didn’t have other. a computer in his or her home—every single Do we have honest differences? I certainly one in the country—access to the Internet, hope so. It’s the only way you ever learn any- so there was no digital divide. thing. But we manage them instead of letting I want you to think about what it would them drive us apart. And we actually believe be like if Beau Mitchell were the elected that what enables us to tap the benefits of president of his tribe, and they celebrated our diversity and have more fun in life is a the first time in American history that all the shared understanding that our common hu- Native Americans had unemployment rates manity is the most important thing. as low as the country and incomes as high. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 11 2353

Just think about that. And think about how Migration Assistance Fund to meet the unex- much better off all the rest of us would be, pected urgent refugee and migration needs, just by going along for the ride and doing including those of refugees, displaced per- our part. sons, conflict victims, and other persons at I’m telling you it’s the most important risk, due to the Timor and North Caucasus thing. And it’s the hardest thing in life. And crises. These funds may be used, as appro- the reason we all felt good seeing these young priate, to provide contributions to inter- people up here talking tonight is they rep- national, governmental, and non-govern- resented our better selves and our hopes for mental organizations. tomorrow. You are authorized and directed to inform If you want to do something to honor Ron the appropriate committees of the Congress Brown, number one, keep supporting this of this determination and the use of funds foundation because they’ll bring those kids under this authority, and to arrange for the up, and they’ll give them a chance. Number publication of this determination in the Fed- two, keep supporting companies like US eral Register. West because they can really change the face Sincerely, of the future. And number three, do what- William J. Clinton ever you can as citizens to make sure we do not squander the chance of a lifetime to build NOTE: This memorandum was released by the Of- a future of our dreams. fice of the Press Secretary on November 11. An Thank you, and God bless you. original was not available for verification of the content of this memorandum. NOTE: The President spoke at 10 p.m. in the Dumbarton Room at the Four Seasons Hotel. In his remarks, he referred to Alma Arrington Remarks at a Veterans Day Brown, widow of Ron Brown, and their children, Ceremony in Arlington, Virginia Michael Brown, Tracey Brown, and Ron Brown; November 11, 1999 Solomon Trujillo, chairman, president and chief executive officer, and Frederick S. Humphries, Thank you very much, Secretary West, for Jr., executive director of public policy, US West; your eloquent remarks and your leadership Ernest Green, one of the Little Rock Nine; former and your many years of devotion to our coun- Mayor David Dinkins of New York City; former try. Commander Smart, thank you for your Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin; and dinner leadership this year. Chaplain Cooke, Lee speakers Patrick Lespinasse, Shayla Barnes, and Beau Mitchell. Thornton, thank you for always being here for our veterans. The leaders of our veterans’ organizations; Memorandum on Assistance for Members of Congress here; Deputy Sec- Refugees and Victims of the Timor retary Gober and members of the Cabinet; and North Caucasus Crises General Ross and members of the Joint November 10, 1999 Chiefs; General Davis and other Medal of Honor recipients. To the former POW’s, the Presidential Determination No. 2000–07 families of those still missing in action, to our Memorandum for the Secretary of State veterans and their families. Let me begin by offering a special word Subject: Presidential Determination of appreciation to the Army Band and Cho- Pursuant to Section 2(c)(1) of the Migration rus for their magnificent music today and for and Refugee Assistance Act of 1962, as making us feel so important. And I want to Amended say a special welcome today to a person you Pursuant to section 2(c)(1) of the Migra- may have read about in the morning pa- tion and Refugee Assistance Act of 1962, as pers—Capt. Earl Fox is the Senior Medical amended, 22 U.S.C. 2601(c)(1), I hereby de- Officer at the Coast Guard Personnel Com- termine that it is important to the national mand here in Washington. He also happens interest that up to $40 million be made avail- to be the last World War II veteran still on able from the U.S. Emergency Refugee and active military duty. Now, next week he will 2354 Nov. 11 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 retire at the tender young age of 80. I think island after another. The task of stopping he has earned his retirement. But Captain, them fell to a group of young marines in an on behalf of a grateful nation, we say thank operation called Project Watchtower, in a you for your service. Thank you. place called Guadalcanal. The battle was ex- My fellow Americans, as we all know, we pected to last 6 weeks. It took 6 months. The celebrate Veterans Day on the anniversary jungle was so thick soldiers could hardly of the armistice ending World War I, on the walk; fighting so fierce and rations so thin 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. that the average marine lost 25 pounds. Eighty years ago today, President Woodrow Every night shells fell from the sky, and Wilson proclaimed this a day of solemn pride enemy soldiers charged up the hills. The only in the heroism of those who died in the coun- weapons marines had to defend themselves try’s service. For 2 full minutes in the middle were Springfield rifles left over from World of that day, all traffic and business across our War I. But with the strength forged in fac- Nation stopped, as Americans took time to tories and fields back home, they turned back remember family and friends who fought and wave after wave of hand-to-hand fighting, those who never came home from the ‘‘war until at last, the Navy was able to help the to end all wars.’’ I don’t believe those men marines turn the tide in the naval battle that and women who were our forebears could began 57 years ago tomorrow. ever have imagined that so many other times That turned the tide of battle in the whole in this century young Americans would be Pacific and with it the tide of American his- asked again and again to fight and die for tory. On that small island, in the Battle of freedom in foreign lands. Guadalcanal, Americans proved that our Na- When the 20th century began, the tion would never again be an island, but rath- headstones that stand in silent formation on er allied with freedom and peace-loving peo- these beautiful hills covered fewer than 200 ple everywhere, as the greatest force for acres. Today, at century’s end, they cover peace and freedom the world has ever more than 600 acres. Hundreds of millions known. of people in the United States and around In the days and years that have followed, the world sleep in peace because more than men and women, forged from the same met- a million Americans rest in peace, here and tle, in every branch of our military have built in graves marked and unmarked all across on those sacrifices and stood for the cause the world. Today we come again to say we of freedom, from World War II to Korea, owe them a debt we can never repay. to Vietnam, to Kuwait City, to Kosovo. In a way, the young men and women who On the beach at Guadalcanal is a monu- have died in defense of our country gave up ment to those who fought on the island. In not only the life they were living but also the hills that surround us, some of the 1,500 the life they would have lived, their chance marines and sailors who lost their lives in that to be parents, their chance to grow old with battle are laid to rest. They are some of the their grandchildren. Too often when we greatest of the greatest generation. speak of sacrifice, we speak in generalities One of those who served at Guadalcanal about the larger sweep of history, and the was a 19-year-old marine lieutenant named sum total of our Nation’s experience. But it John Chafee. He went on to fight in Oki- is very important to remember that every sin- nawa, to lead troops in Korea, to serve as gle veteran’s life we honor today was just Governor of Rhode Island and Secretary of that, a life, just like yours and mine. A life the Navy, and then, for more than 20 years, with family and friends and love and hopes as a United States Senator. He helped write and dreams and ups and downs, a life that the law that keeps our air clean. His fights should have been able to play its full course. for health care helped millions of veterans Fifty-seven years ago this week, the eyes live better lives. Yet he was so humble that of America were focused on a small, swelter- when he received a distinguished award from ing island in the South Pacific. Pearl Harbor the Marine Corps Foundation last year, he had been bombed the year before, and Japa- hardly spoke about his wartime service. Two nese forces in the Pacific were capturing one weeks ago, this remarkable man passed away Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 11 2355 at the age of 77. At his funeral, Hillary and every day from our military forces all around I spent time with his 5 children and his 12 the world. grandchildren. And I was proud to announce Last month I was proud to sign a bill that on that day that the Navy will be naming will keep us moving in that direction, with one of its most modern and capable destroy- the start of the first sustained increase in ers after John Chafee. military spending in a decade and the biggest Now, that was the measure of one man’s pay increase for our troops in a generation. life who fought in Guadalcanal and survived. It means we must also do more to be faithful Today, in our imaginations, we must try to to our veterans when their service is over. imagine the measure of all the lives that President Theodore Roosevelt once said, might have been, had they not been laid ‘‘Anyone good enough to shed his blood for down in service to our Nation. What about his country is good enough to be given a the more than one million men and women square deal afterward.’’ who have given their lives so that we could Over the past 7 years we have opened be free? What would have been the measure more than 600 veterans’ out-patient clinics of their lives? What else would they have ac- across America. This year we expect to treat complished for their families and their coun- 400,000 more veterans than last year, includ- try, if only they had had the chance? ing more disabled veterans than ever before. Of course we don’t have any of those an- We will continue to make sure that all veter- swers. But because we have the question, we ans receive the care they deserve. And we clearly have a responsibility to stand in the must continue to make a special effort to end breach for them. We are not just the bene- something that must be intolerable to all of ficiaries of their bravery; we are the stewards us, the tragedy of homeless veterans. of their sacrifice. Thanks to their valor, today, I want to commend the reigning Miss for the very first time in all of human history, America, Heather Renee French, who is with more than half of the nations of the world us today, along with her family, her father— live under governments of their own choos- a disabled Vietnam veteran—her mother, her ing. Our prosperity and power are greater brother, and her sister, for all the work she than they have ever been. It is, therefore, is doing in her position finally to bring proper our solemn obligation to preserve the peace national attention to the plight of homeless and to make the most of this moment for veterans. We thank you for what you’re our children and the children of the world, doing. Thank you. We must not rest until so that those who sacrificed so much to bring we have done everything we possibly can to us to this moment will be redeemed in the bring them back into the society they so will- lives they could have lived by the lives that ingly defended. we do live. And we must bear in mind the special sac- How shall we do this? It means at least rifice of the more than 140,000 veterans who that we must continue to be the world’s lead- were held in prison camps or interned during ing force for peace and freedom, against ter- this century. I want to commend the Vietnam rorism and the proliferation of weapons of Veterans Memorial Fund for completing a mass destruction. It means we must keep the project they launched a year ago today to cre- commitment I have had since the moment ate a special curriculum on the Vietnam war I took the oath of office, that our men and and send a copy to every single high school women in uniform will remain the best across America. Part of that curriculum fo- trained, best equipped, best prepared in the cuses on the men and women who never world. came home. We must not forget them. In Kosovo, we had zero combat fatalities, I am very proud to announce today that and only two planes shot down, though our we have successfully recovered the remains pilots took heavy enemy fire every single day of three more United States servicemen lost and put their lives repeatedly at greater risks during the Korean war. They’re coming to avoid hitting civilians on the ground. That home tonight. But we must not waver in our is a tribute to the professionalism we see common efforts to make the fullest possible 2356 Nov. 11 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 accounting for all our MIA’s, for all their As we look ahead to the large challenges families to have their questions answered. and the grand opportunities of the new cen- Finally, fulfilling our responsibility to lead tury and a new millennium, when our coun- for peace and freedom and to be faithful not try has more prosperity than ever before, and only to our service personnel but our veter- for the first time in my lifetime has the ability ans, requires us to do more than prepare peo- to meet those challenges and to dream ple to fight wars and take care of them when dreams and live them because we are they come home. We must work with greater unthreatened by serious crisis at home and determination to prevent wars. Every Amer- security threats abroad, let us resolve to ican who gave his or her life for our country honor those veterans, to redeem their sac- was, in one way or another, a victim of a rifice, to be stewards of the lives they never peace that faltered, of diplomacy that failed, got to live by doing all we can to see that of the absence of adequate preventive the horrors of the 20th century’s wars are strength. We know that if diplomacy is not not visited upon 21st century Americans. backed by real and credible threats of force, That is the true way to honor the people we it can be empty and even dangerous. But if come here today to thank God for. we don’t use diplomacy first, then our mili- Thank you very much, and God bless tary will become our only line of defense. America. Of course, it also costs money to help struggling young democracies to stand on NOTE: The President spoke at 11:50 a.m. in the their feet as friends and partners of the Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery. In United States, as we’ve tried to do from Po- his remarks, he referred to John W. Smart, com- land to Russia to Nigeria to Indonesia. It mander in chief, Veterans of Foreign Wars; Jeni Cooke, Chaplain, Department of Veterans Affairs; costs money to make sure nuclear weapons Lee Thornton, master of ceremonies; and Gen. in the former Soviet Union are secure, for Raymond G. Davis, USMC (Ret.), Congressional the terrorists and leaders who wish us harm Medal of Honor recipient. do not acquire the means to kill on a more massive scale. It costs money to support the peacemakers in places like the Middle East Remarks on Returning From and the Balkans and Africa, so that regional Arlington National Cemetery and an conflicts do not explode and spread. Exchange With Reporters But all of you know, better than most, that freedom is not free. And all of you know, November 11, 1999 far better than most, that the costliest peace is far cheaper than the cheapest war. Budget Negotiations I am pleased to report to you today that The President. Well, good afternoon. I the Democrats and Republicans in Congress am delighted to be joined by Secretary Riley are working together on a strong compromise and by Bruce Reed, my Domestic Policy Ad- that will allow us to meet some of our most viser, and by these teachers from our area, urgent needs in foreign affairs, to prevent some of whom have actually been hired war. We’re not finished yet, but there is a through our class size initiative. bipartisan center like that which has carried All of you know today is Veterans Day. I’ve America for 50 years at this hopeful moment just returned from Arlington Cemetery. We now at work in the Congress. I am grateful always discussed how best to honor the con- for it, and our children will be safer for it. tributions of our veterans on this day. One In less than 2 months, we’ll be able to say good way is by reaching agreement on a the conflict and bloodshed that took so many budget that honors our values, the values for American lives came from another century. which they served, that enhances oppor- So we gather today for the last time in this tunity, reinforces responsibility, strengthens century to dedicate ourselves to being good our community and the future of our chil- stewards of the sacrifice of the veterans of dren. We have made important progress to- our country. ward that end. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 11 2357

Last night, after many days and hours of In addition to reducing class size, we’ve discussion, Congress agreed to continue sup- made progress on other vital education initia- porting our efforts to hire 100,000 new, high- tives, as well, more than doubling funds for ly qualified teachers to reduce class size in after-school programs and increasing funding the early grades. That is truly good news for for computers in our schools, for mentoring our children and for their future. to prepare our children for college, for the We know that school enrollments are ex- Hispanic education programs. We’re also ploding, record numbers of teachers are re- making progress on other vital budget prior- tiring. Research is clear that students do ities, from hiring up to 50,000 new commu- learn more in smaller classes with quality nity police officers, to setting aside funds to teachers. Every parent and teacher in Amer- preserve natural resources and protect our ica knows that a child in a second-grade class environment for future generations. with 25 students will not get as much atten- I am committed to continuing this work tion as he or she needs and deserves. with Congress to reach agreement on the Just this week, we learned that our class issues still outstanding, including ensuring as- size initiative, which Congress agreed to last sistance for those who have suffered from year, is working. Communities are using the the devastating impact of Hurricane Floyd, funds from last year’s agreement to hire more to paying our dues to the United Nations. than 29,000 teachers and reduce average And if we can just continue in this bipartisan class size for 1.7 million children to 18 stu- spirit, very soon, we will complete work on a budget that honors our values, lives within dents a class. That’s why I’ve made honoring our means, and looks to our future. our commitment to reducing class size such Thank you all for being here today, for a high priority in these budget negotiations. symbolizing what we’ve been working for. The agreement we have reached has biparti- san support, and it keeps us on track to hiring World Trade Organization Talks in 100,000 teachers by 2005. China As I said in my State of the Union Address, Q. Mr. President, Ambassador we don’t just need more teachers, but better Barshefsky—stay in China for a third day— ones. This agreement furthers that goal as WTO negotiations. Are they getting close to well. All teachers hired under this program a deal? How much progress have they made? must be fully qualified. The program gives The President. I think the best thing I school districts the flexibility to use 25 per- can say at the present is what I said yesterday: cent of the funds from this program to train They are working, and whether I know and test new teachers. It also increases flexi- whether we’ve got an agreement or whether bility, with the involvement of the Secretary we haven’t, I’ll let you know. But I think the of Education, to get extra funds for school less we say now, the better. These are dif- districts that have a high percentage of their ficult negotiations and they’re working on teachers that are not certified to teach the them. subjects they have been hired to teach, so that they can become fully qualified in those President’s Visit to Kosovo subjects. Q. Sir, can you tell us why you are going Through this plan, taxpayer dollars will go to Kosovo, and is the plan to winterize every for reducing class size in public schools. And home in Kosovo overly optimistic, given that I want to thank Members of Congress from many non-governmental organizations have both parties. I’d like to particularly mention reported that people are living in tents and Chairman Goodling, the chairman of the don’t appear that they will have a winterized House committee, for working with us on area of their home in time for the winter this, and Senator Patty Murray, who has been season? such a strong advocate for the class size re- The President. Well, I’m going for several duction initiative. But there are many others, reasons. I’m going to thank our troops and as well, who came together in this agree- see how they’re doing, to support the United ment. This is a victory for America’s children. Nations’ operation there, and to see how 2358 Nov. 11 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 we’re doing in helping the peace to take hold ting it voted on at the appropriate time next and meeting basic human needs. week. And if we can get this resolved, then As to the last question you asked, I can’t they’re going to try to get the Africa trade- give a definitive answer because I don’t know CBI bill worked out. And I do think this is what the possibilities are. I think we have a completely good-faith offer on their part. to do what is necessary to make sure that There are still some differences between people are not too cold this winter because the Senate and the House approach. The they exercised their right to go home. House bill doesn’t have CBI in it. And there I want to remind you that in some ways will, inevitably, be some disputes about some we have this problem because almost every- provisions of the CBI bill. I think we can body who left Kosovo went home, because work through them all. I do believe there the world community acted more quickly is a majority in both Houses for this legisla- here than we acted in Bosnia, where there tion. But it just takes—it’s not something that are still hundreds of thousands of refugees can be done without some time and care. who have not gone home because the Bos- And right now, everyone’s energies are fo- nian war went on for 4 years and a quarter cused on resolving the budget agreement. of a million people died there. So I’m—it’s So I pledged to him that we would do our a problem, but I think we’ll deal with it, and best to resolve the budget agreement as I think the Kosovars know that it’s a problem quickly as possible—to reach a budget agree- because they all got to go home so fast. And ment. And he pledged to me that if we got we just have to work it through and find out it done in time, if they could physically do whatever is necessary to get them through it, he would try to hammer out an agreement the winter. on Africa-CBI that both Houses can support. One more. I’ll take one more. Go ahead. And I think it’s terribly important, so I hope very much we can do it. Africa and Caribbean Trade Legislation Q. Mr. President, in your conversation Israeli Radar Sales to China with Mr. Lott, you have raised the African Q. Sir, can you take a question on Israel? and CBI legislation. Did you get any assur- Could you tell us, sir, how it is that Israel ance from him that there would be action got the notion that it would be prudent to on that before the end of the session? sell radar equipment to the Chinese, and The President. Oh, I’ll tell you exactly what are you doing about it? what he said, and actually, I think he’s basi- The President. Well, we have raised it cally right about this. He said, we’ve got with them because we raise—whenever any every available resource now, all of our avail- of our friends sell sophisticated equipment able resources thrown into resolving all the that might be American in origin that is in- remaining budget issues. As you know, we consistent with the terms under which the stand up—Senator Lott and Senator Daschle transfer was made, then we raise that. That and Speaker Hastert and Mr. Gephardt and has not been acknowledged yet; the facts are I, we stand up and we give these talks, and in dispute. So I think before I can tell you we answer your questions. And for every what I’m going to do about it, we have to question we answer there are scores of peo- be absolutely sure what the facts are. ple that are required to do all this work and Our people had questions, and they had hammer out the agreements to turn it into good reason to have questions. But some- legislative language, to work out the mechan- times when you hear these things, it’s not ics of how it’s going to get on the calendar always right. So the story is accurate that and all that. we’ve raised the matter, but it is inaccurate So what Senator Lott said was that he to say that we know it’s an actual fact that strongly supported the legislation, as do I. such a transfer has occurred. As soon as we Senator Daschle strongly supports it. They do know the facts, then we will decide what want to know that we have—put mechani- is appropriate, and I’ll be glad to tell you cally—that we have a way to resolve all the that. I just—but I don’t want to say anything budget issues and deal with getting it up, get- that I’m not sure is true. And I do not believe Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 12 2359 that the Israeli Government has confirmed Remarks Prior to Discussions With this yet, and I think the matter is still in some President Abdurrahman Wahid of dispute. Indonesia and an Exchange With Thank you. Reporters NOTE: The President spoke at 12:54 p.m. in the Oval Office at the White House. November 12, 1999 President Clinton. Let me say, it’s a great Statement on the Proposed ‘‘Ending honor for me and for all of our team to wel- Discrimination Against Parents Act come President Wahid here, with the mem- of 1999’’ bers of his government. He is now the leader November 11, 1999 of the world’s third-largest democracy, and we are very encouraged by that. We have I am pleased that last night Senators Dodd seen this peaceful transition in Indonesia. and Kennedy introduced the ‘‘Ending Dis- We’ve seen a resolution in East Timor, even crimination Against Parents Act of 1999.’’ though there’s still the problem of refugees This landmark bill protects America’s work- in West Timor. And I’m looking very much ing parents from unfair treatment on the job. forward to this visit. It builds on our Nation’s longstanding com- I think the American people know that a mitment to equal opportunity. And it sends strong and stable and prosperous and demo- a clear message that parents striving to meet cratic Indonesia is very much in our interest. their responsibilities both at home and at the That’s the sort of partnership we’re inter- office should never be considered second- class workers. ested in pursuing, and I hope I can be helpful This bill would, for the first time, protect in that regard. parents and those with parental responsibil- So I’m delighted to have you here, Mr. ities against job discrimination. It does not President. And if you’d like to make any pub- stop employers from making hiring and pro- lic comment to the press while you’re motion decisions on the basis of qualifica- here—— tions or job performance, but it does ensure President Wahid. Well, thank you for that workers are not discriminated against putting a little time for me today to visit you, simply because they are parents or exercise Mr. President, because you know that I come parental responsibilities. It would, for exam- from Indonesia just to make sure that we are ple, bar employers from taking a parent off still great friends of the United States, that the ‘‘fast track’’ because of unsubstantiated we are still in good touch with you. And I concerns that parents cannot perform in de- think that in the future, we meet you more manding jobs. Similarly, it would not allow than before. So also that you know that al- employers to prefer applicants without chil- though there is a shift in policy but not at dren over equally or better qualified working the expense of the American-Indonesian re- parents or to refuse to hire single parents. lationship. This is very important to know, As more mothers enter the workforce and since you understand that this is one world, as more families rely on the earnings of single so we have to create that kind of one world. parents, these protections are increasingly important. We cannot afford to let working And I’m interested in the comment you parents be held captive to baseless assump- made about our religious dialog, which goes tions about their ability to work. toward one world, in that sense. You see, Already, a number of States have enacted from far away we heard that you made very commonsense laws that prohibit or pave the nice comments on those inter-religious dia- way to prohibiting discrimination on the basis logs in Indonesia. And I hope that 2 months of parental or familial status. I urge Congress to come, in January, we’ll have a discussion to safeguard the interests of America’s work- initiated by the Americans from Philadelphia, ing families and give this legislation prompt with the Foreign Minister to be a participant and favorable consideration. Our workplaces there, to be on the organizing committee. We should work for all Americans. 2360 Nov. 12 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 will invite, of course, chief rabbi of Israel as a decision that the President has to make, well as the former chief rabbi. And from here and we ought to support his—anything that from the Catholic side and so forth, I don’t he’s trying to do to build democracy and to know who will come. But anyway, around 50 take Indonesia into the future. people will come there of the three Yes, you had a question? Abrahamic traditions. And since, you know, that kind of thing Military Assistance to Indonesia is special for us in Indonesia, I would like Q. Mr. President, after this meeting will to use this occasion to inform you about this, you resume military assistance to Indonesia? before anything else—economic things. President Clinton. Well, we’re going to Those are the troubles there. talk about that and about what kinds of things So I’m very glad. Today I met people from that we both can do, over a period of time, the World Bank and the IMF and then from to strengthen our relationships, including the the Ex-Im Bank, in which we see the possi- issue of military-to-military ties. And I look bility of having more hands extended towards forward to talking to the President about us, to help us to overcome the difficulties that. in the economic shape, now. Well, you mentioned about East Timor. I Territorial Integrity of Indonesia think that, of course, we still have trouble, Q. How important is the structural integ- and we would like the United States to take rity—the territorial integrity of Indonesia? attention to this kind of problem as well. But And is it more important than the self-deter- I would like to inform you, Mr. President, mination of the peoples of Indonesia? that—[inaudible]—will come to Jakarta, and President Clinton. Well, I don’t think it I’ll meet him. So I hope that will ease a little has to be an either-or thing. I think the— bit the situation in that area, because East I said, at the time when Indonesia supported Timor is, you know, our brothers. giving the East Timorese a vote, that I would President Clinton. Thank you very much. support that, and that having given them the That’s very good news. vote, that the vote had to be respected. On the other hand, we support the terri- Pardon for President Soeharto torial integrity of Indonesia. And I think we Q. President Wahid, sir, President Wahid have to acknowledge that it’s quite a chal- sir, why are you inclined to be willing to par- lenging task to preserve a democracy so don your predecessor, President Soeharto? widespread and so diverse. And I hope we And President Clinton, what do you think can be somewhat helpful in the President of the possibility of a pardon for him? dealing with this challenge. President Wahid. I think if we—we will use law, of course. And we would like to Abortion Rights and U.N. Dues know whether he is guilty or not, according Q. Sir, are you willing to compromise on to the law. But after that, we will pardon him the abortion funding issue in order to get because of two reasons. First is that he was the U.N. dues paid? And where is the status our President, so we have to be careful about of those talks concerning the budget matter? this for the future generations. Second thing President Clinton. Well, I think it’s very is that, you know, that it’s not easy, because important that we pay our United Nations Mr. Soeharto still has big followers. So we arrears. We can hardly ask others to do their have to be careful not to, let’s say, topple part unless we do ours. And its a big national the cart. security issue for us. President Clinton. I think the decision, And it’s related to this whole idea of first of all, is one for the Indonesian people whether we’re going to fulfill our responsibil- and Government to make. And I think every ities in the world. And we have negotiations country has to decide how to resolve the ten- ongoing. They haven’t been resolved yet. sion between the pursuit of a particular case And I think I should follow the same admoni- and the desire for the reconciliation of peo- tion I try to give others when they’re involved ple, and to go forward. And I think that that’s in negotiations around the world: the less we Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 12 2361 say, the better—until we have an agreement Remarks on Signing Legislation To that we think we can all stick by. But we’re Reform the Financial System working on it, and I hope we can work it out. November 12, 1999 Deputy Press Secretary Siewert. Thank Thank you, and good afternoon. I thank you, pool. you all for coming to the formal ratification of a truly historic event. Senator Gramm and World Trade Organization Talks in Senator Sarbanes have actually agreed on an China important issue. [Laughter] Stay right there, Q. [Inaudible]—Mrs. Barshefsky coming John. [Laughter] I asked Phil on the way out back tomorrow? Have you given up hope of how bad it’s going to hurt him in Texas to be walking out the door with me. [Laughter] any deal, a WTO deal before the end of the We decided it was all right today. year? Like all those before me, I want to express President Clinton. No. You know, they’re my gratitude to those principally responsible actually—I have committed not to talk about for the success of this legislation. I thank Sec- the details of the talks, and I won’t. But there retary Summers and the entire team at are a finite and limited number of issues over Treasury, but especially Under Secretary which there are still differences, and they’re Gensler, for their work, and Assistant Sec- working on them. And I have not given up. retary Linda Robertson. I thank you, Chair- I think it would be a very good thing for man Greenspan, for your constant advocacy the world, and a very good thing for the Chi- of the modernization of our financial system. nese if China were in the WTO. But the rea- I thank you, Chairman Levitt, for your con- son it would be a good thing is that it would tinuing concern for investor protections. And give them participation in a rule-based sys- I thank the other regulators who are here. tem, where you could have more and more I thank Senator Gramm and Senator Sar- open trade on fair and balanced terms. So banes, Chairman Leach and Congressman the entry has to be a decision that has some LaFalce, and all the Members of Congress real integrity to it, and it makes sense in who are here. Senator Dodd told me the terms of everybody else’s membership and Sisyphus story, too, over and over again, but everybody else’s responsibilities. And we’re I’ve rolled so many rocks up so many hills, just trying to work through that. I hope we I had a hard time fully appreciating the sig- can. nificance of it. [Laughter] But I think it’s a very, very important ob- I do want to thank all the Members here jective. And I’m certainly glad we’ve pursued and all those who aren’t here. And I’d like it, and we will continue to do so. And I hope to thank two New Yorkers who aren’t here we’ll be successful, but I don’t really have who have been mentioned, former Secretary of the Treasury Bob Rubin, who worked very anything to say. I wouldn’t read too much hard on this, and former chairman, Senator one way or the other into developments so Al D’Amato, who talked to me about this far. Let’s wait and see where we are when often. So this is a day we can celebrate as we’ve actually run out of time. an American day. Q. On Pakistan, do you have any informa- To try to give some meaning to the com- tion? ments that the previous speakers have made President Clinton. Not yet. about how we’re making a fundamental and historic change in the way we operate our NOTE: The exchange began at 12:20 p.m. in the financial institutions, I think it might be Oval Office at the White House. A tape was not worth pointing out that this morning we got available for verification of the content of this ex- some new evidence on the role of new tech- change. nologies in our economy, which showed that 2362 Nov. 12 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 over the past 4 years, productivity has in- tionalized than the one in which we operate creased by a truly remarkable 2.6 percent. today. But the world is very different. That’s about twice the rate of productivity Now we have to figure out, what are still growth the United States experienced in the the individual and family and business equi- 1970’s and the 1980’s. In the last quarter ties that are still involved that need some pro- alone, productivity grew at 4.2 percent. tections? And the long and often tortured This is not just some aloof statistic that story of this law can be seen as a very stun- matters only to the Federal Reserve, the ning specific example of the general chal- Treasury, and Wall Street economists. It is lenge that will face lawmakers of both par- the key to rising paychecks and greater secu- ties, that will face liberals and conservatives, rity and opportunity for ordinary Americans. that will face all Americans as we try to make And the combination of rising productivity, sure that the 21st century economy really more open borders and trade, working to works for our country and works for the peo- keep down inflation, the dramatic reduction ple who live in it. of the deficit and the accumulation of the So I think you should all be exceedingly surplus, and the continued commitment to proud of yourselves, including being proud the investment in the American people, re- of your differences and how you tried to rec- search and development, and new productiv- oncile them. Over the past 7 years, we’ve ity-inducing technologies has given us the tried to modernize the economy, and today most sustained real wage growth in more what we’re doing is modernizing the financial than two decades, with the lowest inflation services industry, tearing down these anti- in more than three decades. quated walls, and granting banks significant I can tell you that back in December of new authority. 1992, when we were sitting around the table This will, first of all, save consumers bil- at the Governor’s Mansion, trying to decide lions of dollars a year through enhanced com- what had to be in this economic program, petition. It will also protect the rights of con- the economists that I had there, who nor- sumers. It will guarantee that our financial mally are thought to be—you know, you say, system will continue to meet the needs of well, they’re Democrats; they’ll be more opti- underserved communities, something that mistic—none of them believed that we could the Vice President and I tried to do through grow the economy for this long with an un- the empowerment zones, the enterprise employment rate this low and an inflation communities, the community development rate this low. And it’s a real tribute to the financial institutions, but something which American people. has been largely done through the private So what you see here, I think, is the most sector and honoring the Community Rein- important recent example of our efforts here vestment Act. in Washington to maximize the possibilities The legislation I signed today establishes of the new information age global economy, the principles that as we expand the powers while preserving our responsibilities to pro- of banks, we will expand the reach of that tect ordinary citizens and to build one nation act. In order to take advantage of the new here. And there will always be competing in- opportunities created by the law, we must terests. You heard Senator Gramm character- first show a satisfactory record of meeting ize this bill as a victory for freedom and free the needs of all the communities the financial markets. And Congressman LaFalce charac- institution serves. terized this bill as a victory for consumer pro- I want to thank Senator Sarbanes and Con- tection. And both of them are right. And I gressman LaFalce for their leadership on the have always believed that one required the CRA issue. I want to applaud the literally other. hundreds of dedicated community groups all It is true that the Glass-Steagall law is no around our country that work so hard to longer appropriate to the economy in which make sure the CRA brings more hope and we live. It worked pretty well for the indus- capital to hard-pressed areas. trial economy, which was highly organized, The bill I signed today also does, as Con- much more centralized, and much more na- gressman Leach says, take significant steps Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 12 2363 to protect the privacy of our financial trans- keep pushing our country into the possibili- actions. It will give consumers, for the very ties of the future. first time, the right to know if their financial This is a very good day for the United institution intends to share their financial States. Again I thank all of you for making data and the right to stop private information sure that we have done right by the American from being shared with outside institutions. people and that we have increased the Like the new medical privacy protections I chances of making the next century an Amer- announced 2 weeks ago, these financial pri- ican century. I hope we can continue to focus vacy protections have teeth. We granted reg- on the economy and the big questions we ulators full enforcement authority and cre- will have to deal with revolving around that. ated new penalties to punish abusive prac- I hope we will continue to pay down our tices. But as others have said here, I do not debt. I still believe in a global economy. We believe that the privacy protections go far will maximize the opportunities created by enough. I am pleased the act actually in- this law if the Government is reducing its structs the Treasury to study privacy prac- debt and its claim on available capital. So tices in the financial services industry and to I hope very much that that will be part of recommend further legislative steps. Today our strategy in the future. I’m directing the National Economic Council But today we prove that we could deal with to work with Treasury and OMB to complete the large issue facing our country and every that study and give us a legislative proposal other advanced economy in the world. If we which the Congress can consider next year. keep dealing with it in other contexts, the Without restraining the economic potential future of our children will be very bright, of new business arrangements, I want to indeed. make sure every family has meaningful Thank you very much. I’d like to ask all choices about how their personal information the Members of Congress to come up here will be shared within corporate conglom- while we sign the bill. Thank you. erates. We can’t allow new opportunities to erode old and fundamental rights. NOTE: The President spoke at 1:37 p.m. in the Despite this concern, I want to say again, Presidential Hall (formerly Room 450) in the this legislation is truly historic. And it indi- Dwight D. Eisenhower Executive Office Building. S. 900, the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, approved cates what can happen when Republicans November 12, was assigned Public Law No. 106– and Democrats work together in a spirit of 102. genuine cooperation, when we understand we may not be able to agree on everything, but we can reconcile our differences once Statement on Signing Legislation To we know what the larger issue is: how to Reform the Financial System maximize the opportunities of the American November 12, 1999 people in a global information age and still preserve our sense of community and protec- Today I am pleased to sign into law S. 900, tion for individual rights. the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act. This historic In that same spirit, I hope we will soon legislation will modernize our financial serv- complete work on the budget. I hope we will ices laws, stimulating greater innovation and complete work on the Work Incentives Im- competition in the financial services industry. provement Act, to allow disabled people to America’s consumers, our communities, and go to work. And I know Senator Gramm has the economy will reap the benefits of this been working with Senator Roth and Senator Act. Jeffords and Senator Moynihan and Senator Beginning with the introduction of an Ad- Kennedy on that. ministration-sponsored bill in 1997, my Ad- There are a lot of things we can do once ministration has worked vigorously to we recognize we’re dealing with a big issue, produce financial services legislation that over which we ought to have some disagree- would not only spur greater competition, but ments but where we can come together in also protect the rights of consumers and constructive and honorable compromise to guarantee that expanded financial services 2364 Nov. 12 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 firms would meet the needs of America’s un- tain a ‘‘satisfactory’’ or better rating under derserved communities. Passage of this legis- the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). lation by an overwhelming, bipartisan major- The CRA will continue to apply to all banks ity of the Congress suggests that we have met and thrifts, and any application to acquire or that goal. merge with a bank or thrift will continue to The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act makes the be reviewed under CRA, with full oppor- most important legislative changes to the tunity for public comment. The bill offers structure of the U.S. financial system since further support for community development the 1930s. Financial services firms will be au- in the form of a new Program for Investment thorized to conduct a wide range of financial in Microentrepreneurs (PRIME), to provide activities, allowing them freedom to innovate technical help to low- and moderate-income in the new economy. The Act repeals provi- microentrepreneurs. sions of the Glass-Steagall Act that, since the The Act includes a limited extension of the Great Depression, have restricted affiliations CRA examination cycle for small banks and between banks and securities firms. It also thrifts with outstanding or satisfactory CRA amends the Bank Holding Company Act to records, but expressly preserves the ability remove restrictions on affiliations between of regulators to examine these institutions at banks and insurance companies. It grants any time for reasonable cause, and does not banks significant new authority to conduct affect regulators’ authority in connection most newly authorized activities through fi- with an application. The bill also includes a nancial subsidiaries. requirement for disclosure and reporting of Removal of barriers to competition will en- CRA agreements. The Act and its legislative hance the stability of our financial services history have been crafted to alleviate burdens system. Financial services firms will be able on banks and thrifts and those working to to diversify their product offerings and thus stimulate investment in underserved com- their sources of revenue. They will also be munities. It is critical that depository institu- better equipped to compete in global finan- tions and their community partners continue cial markets. Although the Act grants financial services efforts that have led to the highest home firms greater latitude to innovate, it also con- ownership rate in our history, including a tains important safety and soundness protec- particularly dramatic increase in recent years tions. While the Act allows common owner- in minority and low-income home ownership. ship of banking, securities, and insurance My Administration remains committed to en- firms, it still requires those activities to be suring that implementation of these provi- conducted separately within an organization, sions does not in any way diminish commu- subject to functional regulation and funding nity reinvestment, and stands ready to rem- limitations. edy any problems that may arise. Both the Vice President and I have insisted Last May, I proposed strong and enforce- that any financial services modernization leg- able Federal privacy protections for consum- islation must benefit American communities ers’ financial information. I am very pleased by preserving and strengthening community that the Act provides a number of the new reinvestment. I am very pleased that the Act protections that I proposed. accomplishes this goal. The Act establishes Under the Act, financial institutions must an important prospective principle: banking clearly disclose their privacy policies to cus- organizations seeking to conduct new non- tomers up front and annually, allowing con- banking activities must first demonstrate a sumers to make truly informed choices about satisfactory record of meeting the credit privacy protection. For the first time, con- needs of all the communities they serve, in- sumers will have an absolute right to know cluding low- and moderate-income commu- if their financial institution intends to share nities. Thus, the law will for the first time or sell their personal financial data, either prohibit expansion into activities such as se- within the corporate family or with an unaf- curities and insurance underwriting unless all filiated third-party. Consumers will have the of the organization’s banks and thrifts main- right to ‘‘opt out’’ of such information sharing Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 / Nov. 12 2365 with unaffiliated third parties. These protec- nies to avoid State law protecting policy- tions constitute a significant change from ex- holders, enriching insiders at the expense of isting law, under which information on every- consumers. We intend to monitor any re- thing from account balances to credit card domestications and State law changes closely, transactions can be shared or sold by a finan- returning to the Congress if necessary. The cial institutions without a customer’s knowl- Act’s Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) pro- edge or consent, including the sale of infor- visions fail to focus the FHLB System more mation to telemarketers and other non- on lending to community banks and less on financial firms. arbitrage activities and short-term lending Of equal importance, these restrictions that do not advance its public purpose. have teeth. For the first time, the Act allows The Act raises certain constitutional issues privacy protection to be included in regular with respect to the insurance privacy provi- bank examinations. The Act grants regulators sions in title V. The Act might be construed full authority to issue privacy rules and to as contrary to Supreme Court decisions that use the full range of their enforcement pow- hold that the Congress may not compel ers in case of violations. The Act grants new, and needed, rulemaking authority under the States to enact or administer a Federal regu- existing Fair Credit Reporting Act. In addi- latory program. I interpret section 505(c) of tion, it establishes new penalties to prevent the Act, however, as providing States with pretext calling, by which unscrupulous per- a constitutionally permissible choice of sons use deceptive practices to determine the whether to participate in such a program. financial assets of consumers. The Act will States that choose to participate will gain the specifically allow the States to provide powers listed in section 505(c); States that stronger privacy protections if they choose decline will not. I believe that the Congress, to do so. in giving States a choice (in section 505(c)) Although these are significant steps for- whether to ‘‘adopt regulations to carry out ward, we will continue to press for even this subtitle,’’ intended to allow States to ac- greater privacy protections—especially cept or decline all of the rulemaking and en- choice about whether personal financial in- forcement obligations assigned to State au- formation can be shared within a corporate thorities under sections 501–505 of the Act. family. Privacy is fundamental to Americans, This interpretation is consistent with the ex- and to my Administration. planation in the conference report that both The Act also streamlines supervision of the rulemaking and enforcement roles of bank holding companies and preserves finan- State insurance authorities are voluntary not cial regulation along functional lines. Activi- mandatory. ties generally will be overseen by those regu- Section 332(b) of S. 900 provides for Presi- lators who are most knowledgeable about a dential appointment of the board of directors given financial activity, including the Securi- of the National Association of Registered ties and Exchange Commission for securities Agents and Brokers (NARAB), established by activities and State regulators for insurance the bill in the event that certain stated condi- activities. Given the broad new affiliations tions occur. Because members of the permissible under this legislation, I fully ex- NARAB board would exercise significant pect our regulators to work together to pro- tect the integrity of our financial system. The Federal governmental authority under those bill also promotes the safety and soundness conditions, they must be appointed as Offi- of our financial system by enhancing the tra- cers pursuant to the Appointments Clause of ditional separation of banking and com- the Constitution. Under section 332(b)(1) of merce. The bill limits the ability of thrift in- the bill, the President would be required to stitutions to affiliate with commercial compa- make such appointments from lists of can- nies. didates recommended by the National Asso- There are provisions of the Act that con- ciation of Insurance Commissioners. The Ap- cern me. The Act’s redomestication provi- pointments Clause, however, does not permit sions could allow mutual insurance compa- such restrictions to be imposed upon the 2366 Nov. 12 / Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

President’s power of appointment. I there- Proclamation 7249—Suspension of fore do not interpret the restrictions of sec- Entry as Immigrants and tion 332(b)(1) as binding and will regard any Nonimmigrants of Persons such lists of recommended candidates as ad- Responsible for Repression of the visory only. Civilian Population in Kosovo or for The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act is a major achievement that will benefit American con- Policies That Obstruct Democracy in sumers, communities, and businesses of all the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia sizes. I thank all of those individuals who (Serbia and Montenegro) (‘‘FRY’’) or played a role in the development and passage Otherwise Lend Support to the of this historic legislation. Current Governments of the FRY and of the Republic of Serbia William J. Clinton November 12, 1999 The White House, November 12, 1999. By the President of the United States of America

NOTE: S. 900, the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, ap- A Proclamation proved November 12, was assigned Public Law In light of the actions of President No. 106–102. Slobodan Milosevic and other officials of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (Serbia and Montenegro) (‘‘FRY’’) and the Republic of Statement on Signing a Proclamation Serbia against elements of the civilian popu- To Expand Sanctions Against the lation of Kosovo, including actions within the Milosevic Regime in Serbia jurisdiction of the International Criminal Tri- November 12, 1999 bunal for the former Yugoslavia; in light of actions being taken by the Milosevic regime Today I signed a proclamation that will sig- to obstruct democracy and to suppress an nificantly expand the visa sanctions we im- independent media and freedom of the press pose on those who support the Milosevic re- in the FRY, Serbia, Montenegro, and gime in Serbia. The Secretary of State will Kosovo; and in light of the ongoing efforts now have greater flexibility to deny visas to of the Milosevic regime and its supporters a broad range of Milosevic’s key supporters, to thwart the economic sanctions imposed by who are obstructing democracy, suppressing the United States and other countries against freedom of speech, and financially support- the FRY, I have determined that it is in the ing the regime. Family members, relatives, interests of the United States to suspend the and close associates of those on the list may entry into the United States of certain offi- also be excluded. cials of the FRY Government and the Gov- This proclamation sends a clear message ernment of the Republic of Serbia and of to those propping up the Milosevic regime other persons who either act in support of that Serbia faces a clear choice: It can take such officials’ policies or who are closely asso- its rightful place in a prosperous democratic ciated with such officials. Europe or sink further into isolation and eco- Now, Therefore, I, William J. Clinton, nomic decline under a dictator who has be- by the powers vested in me as President by trayed the best interests of the Serbian peo- the Constitution and the laws of the United ple. And if it chooses the latter path, those States of America, including section 212(f) responsible will not be able to escape the of the Immigration and Nationality Act of consequences of their actions by leaving their 1952, as amended (8 U.S.C. 1182(f)), and country. section 301 of title 3, United States Code, In this and other ways, we and our Euro- hereby find that the unrestricted immigrant pean allies are determined to support the and nonimmigrant entry into the United Serbian opposition in its effort to bring true States of persons described in section 1 of democracy to Serbia. this proclamation would, except as provided Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 2367 for in sections 2 through 4 of this proclama- Sec. 5. The Secretary of State shall have tion, be detrimental to the interests of the responsibility to implement this proclamation United States. I do therefore hereby pro- pursuant to procedures the Secretary may es- claim that: tablish. Section 1. The immigrant and non- Sec. 6. This proclamation is effective im- immigrant entry into the United States of the mediately and shall remain in effect, in whole following persons is hereby suspended: or in part, until such time as the Secretary (a) Slobodan Milosevic and other persons of State determines that it is no longer nec- who, as senior FRY or Serbian officials or essary and should be terminated, in whole as members of the FRY and/or Serbian mili- or in part. tary or paramilitary forces, formulated, im- In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set plemented, or carried out repressive actions my hand this twelfth day of November, in against the civilian population in Kosovo; the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and (b) Officials of the Government of the ninety-nine, and of the Independence of the FRY or of the Republic of Serbia and FRY United States of America the two hundred nationals who formulate, implement, or carry and twenty-fourth. out policies obstructing or suppressing free- William J. Clinton dom of speech or of the press in the FRY, Serbia, Montenegro, or Kosovo, or who oth- [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, erwise are obstructing efforts to establish a 8:45 a.m., November 16, 1999] peaceful and stable democracy in these areas; (c) Officials of the Government of the FRY NOTE: This proclamation will be published in the or of the Republic of Serbia and FRY nation- Federal Register on November 17. als who, individually or as officers or employ- ees of business or financial entities, engage in financial transactions that materially sup- port the Government of the FRY, the Gov- Digest of Other ernment of the Republic of Serbia, Slobodan White House Announcements Milosevic, or members of the Milosevic re- gime; and (d) Any spouse, minor child, close relative, The following list includes the President’s public or close personal associate of any person de- schedule and other items of general interest an- scribed in subsections (a) through (c) above, nounced by the Office of the Press Secretary and if the entry into the United States of such not included elsewhere in this issue. spouse, minor child, close relative, or close personal associate would not be in the inter- November 8 ests of the United States in light of the objec- In the afternoon, the President met with tives of this proclamation. Prime Minister Milos Zeman of the Czech Sec. 2. Section 1 shall not apply with re- Republic and Prime Minister Mikulas spect to any person otherwise covered by sec- Dzurinda of Slovakia. tion 1 where the entry of such person would The President announced his intention to not be contrary to the interests of the United nominate Mark L. Schneider to be Director States. of the Peace Corps. Sec. 3. Persons covered by sections 1 and The President announced his intention to 2 shall be identified by the Secretary of State, nominate Juanita Sims Doty and Leslie or the Secretary’s designee, in the Secretary Lenkowsky to be members of the Board of or the Secretary’s designee’s sole discretion, Directors of the Corporation for National pursuant to such procedures as the Secretary and Community Service. may establish under section 5 below. The President announced his intention to Sec. 4. Nothing in this proclamation shall nominate Gov. Mel Carnahan of Missouri to be construed to derogate from United States be a member of the Board of Trustees of Government obligations under applicable the Harry S. Truman Scholarship Founda- international agreements. tion. 2368 Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

November 9 The President announced his intention to The President announced his intention to nominate Ernest W. DuBester, Francis J. nominate Gary A. Barron to be a member Duggan, and Magdalena G. Jacobsen to be of the Board of Directors of the Overseas members of the National Mediation Board. Private Investment Corporation. The President announced his intention to The President announced his intention to nominate Jerome F. Kever and Virgil M. nominate Antony Merck to be Commissioner Speakman, Jr., to be members of the Rail- of the Federal Maritime Commission of the road Retirement Board. United States. The President announced his intention to The President announced his intention to nominate Carol Waller Pope to be a member nominate Randolph D. Moss to be Assistant of the Federal Labor Relations Authority. Attorney General for the Office of Legal The President announced his intention to Counsel at the Department of Justice. nominate Eric D. Eberhard to be a member The President announced his intention to of the Board of Trustees for the Morris K. nominate John R. Lacey to be Chair and Lar- Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National amie F. McNamara to be a member of the Environmental Policy Foundation. Foreign Claims Settlement Commission of The President announced his intention to the United States. nominate Monte R. Belger to be Deputy Ad- ministrator of the Federal Aviation Adminis- November 10 tration, U.S. Department of Transportation. In the morning, the President had tele- phone conversations with Speaker of the The President announced his intention to House J. Dennis Hastert and Senate Majority nominate Joan R. Challinor to be a member Leader Trent Lott concerning the budget ne- of the National Commission on Libraries and gotiations. He later had a second telephone Information Science. conversation with Senator Lott concerning The President declared a major disaster in trade legislation for Africa and the Carib- Vermont and ordered Federal aid to supple- bean. ment State and local recovery efforts in the Later in the morning, the President trav- area struck by severe storms and flooding as- eled to York, PA, where he toured the Har- sociated with Tropical Storm Floyd on Sep- ley-Davidson Motor Co. plant. In the after- tember 16–21. noon, he returned to Washington, DC. The President announced his intention to November 11 nominate Robert M. (Mike) Walker to be In the morning, the President traveled to Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs at the Arlington, VA, where he participated in a Department of Veterans Affairs. Veterans Day wreath-laying ceremony at the The President announced his intention to Tomb of the Unknowns. In the afternoon, nominate Frank S. Holleman III to be Dep- he returned to Washington, DC. uty Secretary of the Department of Edu- cation. The President announced his intention to nominate Luis Lauredo to be the U.S. Per- manent Representative to the Organization of American States, with the rank of Ambas- sador. Nominations The President announced his intention to Submitted to the Senate nominate Donald R. Vereen, Jr., to be Dep- uty Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy. The following list does not include promotions of The President announced his intention to members of the Uniformed Services, nominations nominate Deanna Tanner Okun to be a to the Service Academies, or nominations of For- member of the International Trade Commis- eign Service officers. sion. Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 2369

Submitted November 3 1 Donald W. Horton, of Maryland, to be U.S. Marshal for the Dis- Irwin Belk, trict of Columbia for the term of 4 years, of North Carolina, to be an Alternate Rep- vice Herbert M. Rutherford III, term ex- resentative of the United States of America pired. to the Fifty-fourth Session of the General As- sembly of the United Nations. Submitted November 9 Carol Moseley-Braun, Mel Carnahan, of Illinois, to serve concurrently and without of Missouri, to be a member of the Board additional compensation as Ambassador Ex- of Trustees of the Harry S Truman Scholar- traordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United ship Foundation for a term expiring Decem- States of America to Samoa. ber 10, 2005 (reappointment). Revius O. Ortique, Jr., James John Hoecker, of Louisiana, to be an Alternate Representa- of Virginia, to be a member of the Federal tive of the United States of America to the Energy Regulatory Commission for the term Fifty-fourth Session of the General Assembly expiring June 30, 2005 (reappointment). of the United Nations. John R. Lacey, Bobby L. Roberts, of Connecticut, to be Chairman of the For- of Arkansas, to be a member of the National eign Claims Settlement Commission of the Commission on Libraries and Information United States for a term expiring September Science for a term expiring July 19, 2003 (re- 30, 2000, vice Delissa A. Ridgway, term ex- appointment). pired. Michael G. Rossmann, Laramie Faith McNamara, of Indiana, to be a member of the National of Virginia, to be a member of the Foreign Science Board, National Science Foundation Claims Settlement Commission of the for a term expiring May 10, 2006, vice Eve United States for a term expiring September L. Menger. 30, 2001, vice John R. Lacey, term expired. Daniel Simberloff, Antony M. Merck, of Tennessee, to be a member of the Na- of South Carolina, to be a Federal Maritime tional Science Board, National Science Commissioner for the term expiring June 30, Foundation for a term expiring May 10, 2001, vice Ming Hsu, term expired. 2006, vice Sanford D. Greenberg. Randolph D. Moss, of Maryland, to be an Assistant Attorney Earl Anthony Wayne, General, vice Walter Dellinger. of Maryland, a career member of the Senior Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, Mark L. Schneider, to be an Assistant Secretary of State (Eco- of California, to be Director of the Peace nomic and Business Affairs), vice Alan Philip Corps, vice Mark D. Gearan, resigned. Larson. Withdrawn November 9 Submitted November 8 Beth Nolan, Carol Jones Carmody, of New York, to be an Assistant Attorney of Louisiana, to be a member of the National General, vice Walter Dellinger, which was Transportation Safety Board for a term expir- sent to the Senate on March 5, 1999. ing December 31, 2004, vice Robert Talcott Francis II. Marshall S. Smith, of California, to be Deputy Secretary of Edu- 1 These nominations were not received in time cation, vice Madeleine Kunin, which was sent for inclusion in the appropriate issue. to the Senate on March 25, 1999. 2370 Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

Submitted November 10 Ernest W. DuBester, of New Jersey, to be a member of the Na- Monte R. Belger, tional Mediation Board for a term expiring of Virginia, to be Deputy Administrator of July 1, 2001 (reappointment). the Federal Aviation Administration, vice Linda Hall Daschle. Francis J. Duggan, Joan R. Challinor, of Virginia, to be a member of the National of the District of Columbia, to be a member Mediation Board for a term expiring July 1, of the National Commission on Libraries and 2000, vice Kenneth Byron Hipp, term ex- Information Science for a term expiring July pired. 19, 2004 (reappointment). Frank S. Holleman III, Eric D. Eberhard, of South Carolina, to be Deputy Secretary of Washington, to be a member of the Board of Education, vice Madeleine Kunin. of Trustees of the Morris K. Udall Scholar- ship and Excellence in National Environ- Magdalena G. Jacobsen, mental Policy Foundation for a term expiring of Oregon, to be a member of the National October 6, 2002, vice Ronald Kent Burton, Mediation Board for a term expiring July 1, term expired. 2002 (reappointment). Luis J. Lauredo, of Florida, to be Permanent Representative Alan Phillip Larson, of the United States to the Organization of of Iowa, to be U.S. Alternate Governor of American States, with the rank of Ambas- the International Bank for Reconstruction sador, vice Victor Marrero. and Development for a term of 5 years; U.S. Alternate Governor of the Inter-American Carol Waller Pope, Development Bank for a term of 5 years; of the District of Columbia, to be a member U.S. Alternate Governor of the African De- of the Federal Labor Relations Authority for velopment Bank for a term of 5 years; U.S. a term expiring July 1, 2004, vice Phyllis Alternate Governor of the African Develop- Nichamoff Segal, term expired. ment Fund; U.S. Alternate Governor of the Donald Ray Vereen, Jr., Asian Development Bank; and U.S. Alternate of the District of Columbia, to be Deputy Governor of the European Bank for Recon- Director of National Drug Control Policy struction and Development, vice Stuart E. (new position). Eizenstat. Ernest J. Wilson III, Leslie Lenkowsky, of Maryland, to be a member of the Board of Indiana, to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for Public of Directors of the Corporation for National Broadcasting for a term expiring January 31, and Community Service for a term expiring 2004, vice Alan Sagner, resigned. February 8, 2004, vice Eli J. Segal, term ex- pired. Gary A. Barron, of Florida, to be a member of the Board of Deanna Tanner Okun, Directors of the Overseas Private Investment of Idaho, to be a member of the U.S. Inter- Corporation for a term expiring December national Trade Commission for a term expir- 17, 2002, vice Mark Erwin. ing June 16, 2008, vice Carol T. Crawford, Juanita Sims Doty, term expired. of Mississippi, to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for National Robert M. Walker, and Community Service for a term expiring of West Virginia, to be Under Secretary of June 10, 2004, vice Robert B. Rogers, term Veterans Affairs for Memorial Affairs (new expired. position). Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999 2371

Checklist Acts Approved of White House Press Releases By the President

The following list contains releases of the Office Approved November 8 of the Press Secretary that are neither printed as items nor covered by entries in the Digest of H.R. 1175 / Public Law 106–89 Other White House Announcements. To locate and secure the return of Zachary Baumel, a United States citizen, and other Released November 6 Israeli soldiers missing in action Announcement: President Clinton An- H.J. Res. 62 / Public Law 106–90 nounces Nationwide Initiative To Prevent 1 To grant the consent of Congress to the Telemarketing Fraud boundary change between Georgia and Released November 8 South Carolina Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- Approved November 9 retary Joe Lockhart S. 437 / Public Law 106–91 Transcript of a press briefing by Education To designate the United States courthouse Secretary Richard Riley and Assistant to the under construction at 333 Las Vegas Boule- President for Domestic Policy Planning vard South in Las Vegas, Nevada, as the Bruce Reed on class size reduction ‘‘Lloyd D. George United States Court- Released November 9 house’’ Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- S. 1652 / Public Law 106–92 retary Joe Lockhart To designate the Old Executive Office Build- Listing: Cabinet Meeting ing located at 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, in Washington, District of Co- Released November 10 lumbia, as the ‘‘Dwight D. Eisenhower Exec- utive Office Building’’ Statement by the Press Secretary on the President’s visit to Greece Approved November 10

Released November 12 H.J. Res. 76 / Public Law 106–93 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- Waiving certain enrollment requirements for retary Joe Lockhart the remainder of the first session of the One Hundred Sixth Congress with respect to any Transcript of a press briefing by National Se- bill or joint resolution making general appro- curity Adviser Samuel Berger, Assistant Sec- priations or continuing appropriations for fis- retary of State for European Affairs Mark cal year 2000 Grossman, and NSC and Special Assistant to the President for Southeastern Europe Chris H.J. Res. 78 / Public Law 106–94 Hill on the President’s visit to Europe. Making further continuing appropriations for Announcement: U.S. Special Envoy for the the fiscal year 2000, and for other purposes Americas Headed for Panama and Colombia Approved November 12 To Discuss Trade and Other Bilateral Issues Fact sheet: ‘‘Southwest Europe Trade Pref- H.R. 441 / Public Law 106–95 erence Act’’ Nursing Relief for Disadvantaged Areas Act of 1999 1 This item was made available by the Office of the Press Secretary on November 5, but it was H.R. 609 / Public Law 106–96 embargoed for release until 10:06 a.m. on Novem- To amend the Export Apple and Pear Act ber 6. to limit the applicability of the Act to apples 2372 Administration of William J. Clinton, 1999

H.R. 915 / Public Law 106–97 S. 900 / Public Law 106–102 To authorize a cost of living adjustment in Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act the pay of administrative law judges Approved November 13 H.R. 974 / Public Law 106–98 District of Columbia College Access Act of H.R. 348 / Public Law 106–103 1999 To authorize the construction of a monument to honor those who have served the Nation’s H.R. 2303 / Public Law 106–99 civil defense and emergency management History of the House Awareness and Preser- programs vation Act H.R. 3122 / Public Law 106–100 H.R. 3061 / Public Law 106–104 To permit the enrollment in the House of To amend the Immigration and Nationality Representatives Child Care Center of chil- Act to extend for an additional 2 years the dren of Federal employees who are not em- period for admission of an alien as a non- ployees of the legislative branch immigrant under section 101(a)(15)(S) of such Act, and to authorize appropriations for H.J. Res. 54 / Public Law 106–101 the refugee assistance program under chap- Granting the consent of Congress to the Mis- ter 2 of title IV of the Immigration and Na- souri-Nebraska Boundary Compact tionality Act