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Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
FOIA Number:
S; 2004-0839-F
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Draft Files
Subseries:
Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13494
Folder ID Number:
13494-012
Folder Title:
Poland Parliament 7/10/89 [1]
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Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
G
25
6
3
7
CONFIDENTIAL
Bob Holdings
(Lange/Wallace)
THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN
July 1, 1989
7/5/89
1:15 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
POLAND'S JOINT SESSION OF PARLIAMENT
THE SEJM
JULY 10, 1989
[TIME]
President Jaruze
From the desk of
[respective president.
be
George Bush
elected), Prime Minist
On behalf of the
Brunt
I am
honored to greet the I
Maybe me will
ish
Parliament. To be her
want to personatize' at
we
live in extraordinary,
little Taruzelski
Poland and the Ur
a sitting down next ??? to
, by
ties of kinship and cu
Walesa
ore
than sentiment.
The May 3 Constitution of 1791 set Poland ahead of her peers --
and ahead of her time -- in the pursuit (date) of freedom and democratic
ideas just as the American constitution ^ set new standards for
protection of the rights of the individual.
For decades, beginning with President Wilson's Fourteen Points,
the United States has stood for Polish independence, freedom, and
prosperity. We are proud of our early and long standing commitment
to Polish self-determination. As America's President, I am here
today to reaffirm that profound commitment.
I understand something of the work you are commencing, for I
began my public service in the American Congress. Democratically
chosen legislatures are mankind's greatest forums for debate and
CONFIDENTIAL
Determined To Be an Administrative
Declassify: on OADR
Marking Per E.O. 12356 Sec. 1.1 (a)
RMC 9/27/04
2
dialogue. And while I have been to Poland before, I did not expect
to return SO soon -- nor in such altered circumstances in your
country. so too, perhaps, many of you did not expect to be here --
serving in this, or in any Polish parliament. Your achievement has
surpassed all expectations.
Our meeting today bears witness to the character of our age.
Some tour hundred and titty years ago, when the Polish
astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus came to understand the natural order
of the planets -- and had the courage to question accepted wisdom --
the world was changed forever. From this year forward, as Poland
works to reaffirm the natural order of man and government, so too
will Poland be changed forever.
For Poland today is undergoing the political and economic
equivalent of a Copernican transformation. A fundamental change in
perspective, that places the people at the center. A new
understanding, that the governed are the true source of lasting
social peace and economic prosperity -- around which government
revolves, and exists to serve.
Poland has a rich democratic heritage. The May 3rd
Constitution of 1791 was a masterpiece of constitutional genius.
Today, at the dawn of its third century, you are called upon to
match that genius with contemporary action -- to make a peaceful
transition toward political and economic renewal, through
representative government that expresses the will of the people.
CONF IDENTIAL
CONFIDENTIAL
3
I said a few weeks ago here in Europe that East and West have
arrived at the end of one era, and at the beginning of another.
Prime Minister Rakowski said recently that the system which emerged
in the 1940s is now throwing off its skin -- that the system to
replace it is only now beginning to take shape. In fact, this
applies not just to Poland, but to the entirety of relations between
East and West.
A profound cycle of turmoil and great change is sweeping the
world from Poland to the Pacific. It is sometimes inspiring, as
here, in Warsaw. Sometimes it is
agonizing , as in China
today. But democracy has captured the spirit of our time. Without
doubt, though democracy may be a dream deferred for some, it remains
the destiny of man.
The future beckons with both hope and uncertainty. Poland and
Hungary find themselves at a crossroads. Each has started down its
own road to democratic change, without guarantee of easy success.
Leaders of these nations deserve our admiration. The way is hard.
But the moment is right, both internally and internationally, for
Poland to walk its own path, in its own way
On the day Solidarity was re-legalized, 3 I spoke in Washington (Hantramba)
of my support for the political experiment just getting underway in
Poland. You have since proceeded further along that road --
including holding the remarkable elections that produced this
Parliament. Let us consider what your experiment may mean, not just
for Poland, but for Europe and the world.
CONF
IDENTIAL
CONFIDENTIAL
4
A divided Europe which has characterized our modern age began
here, in Poland, fifty years ago this SHow summer. Your country -- and
first
Hen occupied
then nearly all of Europe -- was besieged by totalitarian, despotic
forces.
Poland was our ally. In that
fearful time, Franklin Roosevelt and Winston Churchill devised the
Atlantic Charter, which outlined principles on which we hoped to
build a better world: the right of peoples to choose the form of
government under which they will live; freedom from want; the right
to peace within secure borders; and a shared dedication to economic
growth, security and disarmament.
But as you know better than anyone, the world we sought then
was not to be. Stalinist systems were imposed over a third of a
continent. The countries of the West organized themselves and their
defenses. The Cold War began.
defense of democratic proveiple.
in freedom
Despite periods of tension and crisis, the West prospered
1sthits
behind a shield of mutual self-defense and a policy called
15
ontainment. But in the East did in not Poland prosper Poland did not. Forty
the
years of civil strife, wasted resources and dashed hopes marred the
lives of an entire generation. Nor did the division of Europe bring
stability as the recurring upheavals endured in Poland made so
painfully clear.
Such has been the world your children have known for their
entire lives.
The Western strategy But of containment was a necessary means, and
served its function. It was never an end in itself. It was no
CONFIDENTIAL
CONFIDENTIAL
5
substitute for a Europe whole and free. We did not forget the hopes
of 1945, nor the promise of free elections and a better world.
Neither did the Polish people. Poland is where the Cold War began -
now the people at
- and X Poland can help bring the Cold War to an end. The time has
come God willing -- to move beyond containment to the better
world too long deferred.
Now, at long last, two events have allowed us to redeem the
principles of the Atlantic Charter for which the United States and
Poland fought as allies. One is the manifest failure of the old
Stalinist, models. The other is the emergence of leaders in Poland
and Hungary who are working to overcome the mistakes of the past
with honesty, creativity, and courage. The world watches, in awe
and admiration.
Now -- in part because of what you are doing here -- the
genuine opportunity exists for us to build a Europe which many
thought was destroyed forever in the 1940s. That Europe -- the
Europe of our children -- will be free.
dilliam?
We can make it so in two ways.
for wany
First, a new East-West relationship must rest on greatly
reduced levels of arms. We in the West have proposed dramatic
reductions in conventional armed forces in Europe. The new
willingness in Moscow to accept this Western framework for
reductions in troops, tanks, and other categories of weapons gives
us hope that the negotiations in Vienna will succeed. A good
beginning has been made. Constructive proposals are being offered
CONF IDENTIAL
-1
000 WHITE HOUSE
VALUTEC #4
'89 7- 1 20:20
PAGE 07
CONF IDENTIAL
6
on both sides. We must continue to push hard for an early and
successful conclusion to these talks.
Second, reductions in military forces will go further and be
more sustainable if they take place in parallel with political
change. Excessive levels of arms, we believe, are the symptom and
not the source of political tensions. In Europe, those tensions
spring from the unnatural imposition of unpopular -- and therefore
unstable -- political systems, and from the cruel division of
Europe produced.
mocratic reform -- and Hungary's
From the desk of
George Bush
thus have great importance
Maybe, while
blitical structures legitimized
can be the foundation of
giving Groub credit
-- not just in your country, but
we can mahe the
ixt century.
distunction between the
iniversal security rests on the
"Nation Laelf its "people"- ion to choose its own path of
ation of interference in the
domestic affairs of other states. A nation may choose either
But
principal
capitalism or socialism. This is its sovereign right." Imagree.
I might well have said The people of a nation may freely choose
And so the West works not to disrupt, not to interfere, not to cith
threaten any nation's security, but to help build bridges between C DASO
agency of cooperation
That
Poland and the rest of Europe.
Lorge closer fir
this
As a result of the Roundtable Accords, Poland's fate lies more
right
than ever in Polish hands. V Your responsibility for your that country fate is
Plub Parls from doing was
And the outside tone muster agenn intern. to
CONFIDENTIAL
7
immense. Poland's friends, including the American people, want
Poland to be free, prosperous, democratic, and independent -- true
to the best traditions of your nation's past. But we cannot realize
these goals for you.
General Jaruzelski for his part is doing the work of a
statesman, moving forward with a sense of realism, in a time of
great difficulty. Lech Walesa and Solidarity are deeply committed
to institutions in Poland that will serve all its people. And this
Parliament by its very existence is advancing pluralism, and moving
toward democracy.
Yet, even under the best circumstances, democracy has its own
challenges. It requires patience, tolerance, and give-and-take
between political opponents. But its virtue is that it grants
legitimacy to leaders and their policies. It gives governments and
societies a mandate to make hard choices. You know and I know that
hard choices and austerity lie ahead for Poland. My country
understands this.
For over two hundred years, Americans have wrestled over
political and economic interest, 5 over individual and civil rights,
and the role of a loyal opposition. Democracy is not a conclusion,
it is a process -- and perfecting it never ends. But history has
taught us one very clear lesson: democracy works.
We understand in my country the enormous economic problems you
face. Economic privation is a cloud of danger that hangs over this
great democratic experiment. I must speak honestly: economic
CONF IDENTIAL
CONFIDENTIAL
8
reform and recovery cannot occur without sacrifices. Even in an
economy as productive as ours, Americans still debate the role and
limits of government: How to regulate the private sector without
discouraging innovation. How to reduce our own budget deficit. How
to balance union rights and industrial efficiency. How to handle
the painful disruptions of change -- for the sake of productivity,
progress, and prosperity.
The reform of the Polish economy will be an historic challenge.
There can be no substitute for Poland's own efforts. But I want to
stress to you today that Poland is not alone. Given the enormity of
this moment, the United States stands ready to help you as you help
yourselves.
In Hamtramck, Michigan, three months ago, I outlined a policy
of support for the reforms then just beginning in Poland. I
proposed specific steps, carefully chosen to recognize the reforms
underway and to encourage reforms yet to come. It is a policy built
on the dynamic interplay of progress in Poland and Western
engagement -- and not on unsound credits made without regard to
necessary reforms. That was the record of the 1970s, and Poland
repention
needs no repeat of it. Our efforts will be carefully targeted in
support of an emerging new Poland.
We've made progress on the steps announced at Hamtramck.
This is where we stand: Legislation is well underway that
will help Polish exporters compete more effectively in the
U.S. market through our generalized system of preferences;
CONF IDENTIAL
CONFIDENTIAL
9
and that will authorize our Overseas Private Investment
Corporation to operate in Poland, providing investment
insurance and setting up missions to stimulate U.S.
investment and joint ventures here.
-- The United States is proposing a private business
agreement that will promote contacts between Poland's
growing private business sector and its American
counterparts. We hope to conclude an agreement soon.
-- There is great interest and excitement in the United
States about what you are doing in Poland. I hosted a
White House Symposium on July 6, to bring together
citizens of my country interested in investment, trade,
and cultural and academic exchange with Poland and
Hungary. I can assure you that the American people will
be ever more involved in your democratic experiment.
I have said that as Poland reforms itself, the U.S. will
respond. Much has happened even in the short time since Hamtramck.
So today, I'm pleased to announce that we plan to do more -- and go.
farther -- for the sake of a stable and prosperous Poland.
[-- First, I will propose at the upcoming Economic Summit in Paris
that the nations of the Summit Seven form an International
Consortium tor Poland and Hungary. we will work ask our won partate allies at
the Summit, to move quickly with increased Western aid and
technical assistance.
CONE IDENTIAL
CONF IDENTIAL
10
-- Second, I will ask the U.S. Congress to provide a $100
million grant to capitalize and invigorate the Polish
private sector -- and we will encourage parallel
contributions from the other nations of the Economic
Summit.
--
Third, I will ask the World Bank to move rapidly ahead
with $325 million in economically viable loans, to help
Polish agriculture and industry reach the production
levels they are so clearly capable of. Another $500
million will be available as your reform process moves
along.
--
Fourth, I will ask my counterparts in the West to support
an early and generous rescheduling of Polish debt -- and
will be discussing this at the Paris Summit.
-- Fifth, economic progress should not come at the expense of
the environment; (environmental initiative) ]
The elections which brought us together here today mean that the
path the Polish people have chosen is that of political pluralism
and economic rebirth. The road ahead is a long one. But it is the.
only road which leads to prosperity and social peace. Poland's
progress along this road will show the way toward a new era
throughout Europe. The Western democracies will stand with the
Polish people, and other peoples of this region.
CONF IDENTIAL
CONFIDENTIAL
11
Two hundred years ago, Democratic constitutions were adopted by
three nations, embodying the powerful and enduring influence of the
Enlightenment -- of ideas that endure.
The American Constitution was first, and has stood the test of
history for the over 200 years of our existence as a republic.
Constitutional democracy in France began two centuries ago this
summer. And in a few days, leaders from all over the world,
including myself, will be in Paris to celebrate the anniversary of
its birth.
On May 3, 1991, the Polish constitution will also be 200 years
old. Your constitution of 1791 was cruelly crushed, but never
forgotten. Now, this generation's calling is to redeem the promise
of a free Polish republic. Poland has not been lost.
America wishes you well with all its heart. God in his
infinite wisdom and love is with us in this Chamber. God bless you
and your efforts. Niech Zyje Polska (Nee-Yeck Gee-Yay Pole-Skah).
(Long Live Poland)
# # #
CONFIDENTIAL
FINAL
REMARKS:
POLAND'S JOINT SESSION OF PARLIAMENT
THE SEJM
JULY 10, 1989
2:30 P.M.
CHAIRMAN JARUZELSKI, MARSHALLS KOZAKIEWICZ [KOZA-
KEH-VICH] AND STELMACHOWSKI [STEL-MA-HOV-SKY], PRIME
MINISTER RAKOWSKI, SENATORS, AND DELEGATES.
ON BEHALF OF THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES OF
AMERICA, I AM HONORED TO GREET THE NEWLY-ELECTED
REPRESENTATIVES OF THE POLISH PARLIAMENT. TO BE HERE
WITH YOU ON THIS OCCASION IS PROOF THAT WE LIVE IN
EXTRAORDINARY, INDEED THRILLING TIMES.
THE POWER AND POTENTIAL OF THIS MOMENT WAS FIRST
MADE CLEAR TO ME, WHEN I SAW A PHOTO OF GENERAL
JARUZELSKI AND SOLIDARITY LEADER LECH WALESA [VAH-WEN-
SAH] SHOULDER-TO-SHOULDER AT THE OPENING SESSION OF
PARLIAMENT -- COMMITTED TO NEW PROGRESS IN POLAND.
POLAND AND THE UNITED STATES ARE BOUND, IT IS
OFTEN SAID, BY TIES OF KINSHIP AND CULTURE. BUT OUR
PEOPLES ARE LINKED BY MORE THAN SENTIMENT.
- 2 -
THE MAY 3 CONSTITUTION OF 1791 SET POLAND AHEAD OF
HER PEERS -- AND AHEAD OF HER TIME -- IN THE PURSUIT OF
FREEDOM AND DEMOCRATIC IDEAS, JUST AS THE AMERICAN
CONSTITUTION OF 1787 SET NEW STANDARDS FOR PROTECTION
OF THE RIGHTS OF THE INDIVIDUAL.
FOR DECADES, BEGINNING WITH THE VERSAILLES PEACE
CONFERENCE, THE UNITED STATES HAS STOOD FOR POLISH
INDEPENDENCE, FREEDOM, AND PROSPERITY. WE ARE PROUD OF
OUR EARLY AND LONGSTANDING COMMITMENT TO POLISH SELF-
DETERMINATION. AS AMERICA'S PRESIDENT, I AM HERE TODAY
TO REAFFIRM THAT PROFOUND COMMITMENT.
I UNDERSTAND SOMETHING OF THE WORK YOU ARE
COMMENCING, FOR I BEGAN MY PUBLIC SERVICE IN THE
AMERICAN CONGRESS. DEMOCRATICALLY CHOSEN LEGISLATURES
ARE AMONG MANKIND'S GREATEST FORUMS FOR DEBATE AND
DIALOGUE. AND WHILE I HAVE BEEN TO POLAND BEFORE, I
DID NOT EXPECT TO RETURN so SOON -- NOR TO SUCH ALTERED
CIRCUMSTANCES IN YOUR COUNTRY. SO Too, PERHAPS, MANY
OF YOU DID NOT EXPECT TO BE HERE -- SERVING IN THIS, OR
IN ANY POLISH PARLIAMENT. YOUR ACHIEVEMENT HAS
SURPASSED ALL EXPECTATIONS AND HAS EARNED ALL OUR
ADMIRATION.
- 3 -
OUR MEETING TODAY BEARS WITNESS TO THE CHARACTER
OF OUR AGE.
SOME FOUR HUNDRED AND FIFTY YEARS AGO,
WHEN THE POLISH ASTRONOMER NICOLAUS COPERNICUS CAME TO
UNDERSTAND THE NATURAL ORDER OF THE PLANETS -- AND HAD
THE COURAGE TO QUESTION ACCEPTED WISDOM -- THE WORLD
WAS CHANGED FOREVER. FROM THIS YEAR FORWARD, AS POLAND
WORKS TO REAFFIRM THE NATURAL ORDER OF MAN AND
GOVERNMENT, SO TOO WILL POLAND BE CHANGED FOREVER.
FOR TODAY THE SCOPE OF POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC
CHANGE IN POLAND IS INDEED COPERNICAN. A FUNDAMENTAL
CHANGE IN PERSPECTIVE, THAT PLACES THE PEOPLE AT THE
CENTER. A NEW UNDERSTANDING, THAT THE GOVERNED ARE THE
TRUE SOURCE OF LASTING SOCIAL PEACE AND ECONOMIC
PROSPERITY - -- AROUND WHICH GOVERNMENT REVOLVES, AND
EXISTS TO SERVE.
POLAND HAS A RICH DEMOCRATIC HERITAGE. THE MAY
3RD CONSTITUTION WAS A STROKE OF GENIUS. TODAY, AT THE
DAWN OF THAT DOCUMENT'S THIRD CENTURY, YOU ARE CALLED
UPON TO MATCH ITS GENIUS WITH CONTEMPORARY ACTION. TO
MAKE A PEACEFUL TRANSITION TOWARD POLITICAL AND
ECONOMIC RENEWAL -- THROUGH REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT
THAT EXPRESSES THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE.
- 4 -
I SAID A FEW WEEKS AGO HERE IN EUROPE THAT EAST
AND WEST HAVE ARRIVED AT THE END OF ONE ERA, AND AT THE
BEGINNING OF ANOTHER. CHAIRMAN JARUZELSKI RECENTLY
SAID OF POLAND THAT "THE LIFE OF THE NATION HAS
UNDERGONE DEEP CHANGES... SOCIETY HAS THE FULL RIGHT TO
ASK WHEN A RAY OF SUN WILL SHINE OVER POLAND. IN
TRUTH, THIS APPLIES NOT JUST TO POLAND, BUT TO THE
ENTIRETY OF RELATIONS BETWEEN EAST AND WEST.
A PROFOUND CYCLE OF TURMOIL AND GREAT CHANGE IS
SWEEPING THE WORLD FROM POLAND TO THE PACIFIC. IT IS
SOMETIMES INSPIRING, AS HERE, IN WARSAW. SOMETIMES IT
IS AGONIZING, AS IN CHINA TODAY. BUT THE MAGNITUDE OF
CHANGE WE SENSE AROUND THE WORLD COMPELS US TO LOOK
WITHIN OURSELVES -- AND TO GOD -- TO FORGE A RARE ALLOY
OF COURAGE AND RESTRAINT.
- 5 -
THE FUTURE BECKONS WITH BOTH HOPE AND UNCERTAINTY:
POLAND AND HUNGARY FIND THEMSELVES AT A CROSSROADS.
EACH HAS STARTED DOWN ITS OWN ROAD TO REFORM, WITHOUT
GUARANTEE OF EASY SUCCESS. THE PEOPLE OF THESE NATIONS
-- AND THE COURAGE OF THEIR LEADERS -- COMMAND OUR
ADMIRATION. THE WAY IS HARD. BUT THE MOMENT IS RIGHT,
BOTH INTERNALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY, FOR POLAND TO WALK
ITS OWN PATH.
ON THE DAY SOLIDARITY WAS RESTORED, I SPOKE OF MY
SUPPORT AND ADMIRATION FOR THE POLITICAL EXPERIMENT
JUST GETTING UNDERWAY IN POLAND. YOU HAVE SINCE
PROCEEDED FURTHER ALONG THAT ROAD -- INCLUDING HOLDING
THE REMARKABLE ELECTIONS THAT PRODUCED THIS PARLIAMENT.
LET US CONSIDER WHAT YOUR EXPERIMENT MAY MEAN, NOT JUST
FOR POLAND, BUT FOR EUROPE AND THE WORLD.
- 6 -
THE DIVIDED WORLD OF THE MODERN AGE BEGAN HERE, IN
POLAND, FIFTY YEARS AGO THIS SUMMER. YOUR COUNTRY --
AND THEN NEARLY ALL OF EUROPE -- WAS FIRST BESIEGED AND
THEN OCCUPIED BY TOTALITARIAN, DESPOTIC FORCES. A
COURAGEOUS POLAND WAS OUR ALLY. IN THAT FEARFUL TIME,
FRANKLIN ROOSEVELT AND WINSTON CHURCHILL DEVISED THE
ATLANTIC CHARTER, WHICH OUTLINED PRINCIPLES ON WHICH WE
HOPED TO BUILD A BETTER WORLD -- INCLUDING FREEDOM FROM
WANT AND FEAR, AND THE RIGHT OF PEOPLES TO CHOOSE THE
FORM OF GOVERNMENT UNDER WHICH THEY WILL LIVE.
BUT AS YOU KNOW BETTER THAN ANYONE, THE WORLD WE
SOUGHT THEN WAS NOT TO BE. STALINIST SYSTEMS WERE
IMPOSED OVER A THIRD OF A CONTINENT. THE COLD WAR
BEGAN. THE COUNTRIES OF THE WEST ORGANIZED THEMSELVES
IN DEFENSE OF DEMOCRATIC PRINCIPLES. WE PROPOSED THAT
THE MARSHALL PLAN INCLUDE EASTERN EUROPE. BUT AGAIN,
IT WAS NOT TO BE.
- 7 -
THE WESTERN STRATEGY OF CONTAINMENT WAS A MEANS,
BUT WAS NEVER AN END IN ITSELF. IT WAS NO SUBSTITUTE
FOR A FREE AND UNITED EUROPE. WE DID NOT FORGET THE
FRUSTRATED AND LOST HOPES OF 1945, NOR THE PROMISE OF A
BETTER WORLD. NEITHER DID THE POLISH PEOPLE. YOU HAVE
BEEN A CRUCIBLE OF CONFLICT. YOU ARE NOW BECOMING A
VESSEL FOR CHANGE.
POLAND IS WHERE THE COLD WAR BEGAN -- AND NOW THE
PEOPLE OF POLAND CAN HELP BRING THE DIVISION OF EUROPE
TO AN END. THE TIME HAS COME TO MOVE BEYOND
CONTAINMENT TO A WORLD TOO LONG DEFERRED -- A BETTER
WORLD. NOW, AT LONG LAST, TWO DEVELOPMENTS HAVE
ALLOWED US TO REDEEM THE PRINCIPLES OF THE ATLANTIC
CHARTER FOR WHICH THE UNITED STATES AND POLAND FOUGHT
AS ALLIES. ONE IS THE MANIFEST FAILURE OF THE CLASSIC
STALINIST SYSTEM. THE OTHER IS THE INDOMITABLE WILL OF
THE PEOPLE -- THROUGH LEADERS IN POLAND AND HUNGARY,
WHO ARE WORKING TO OVERCOME THE MISTAKES OF THE PAST
WITH HONESTY, CREATIVITY, AND COURAGE. THE WORLD
WATCHES IN ADMIRATION.
- 8 -
NOW -- IN PART BECAUSE OF WHAT YOU ARE DOING HERE
-- THE GENUINE OPPORTUNITY EXISTS FOR ALL OF US TO
BUILD A EUROPE WHICH MANY THOUGHT WAS DESTROYED FOREVER
IN THE 1940S. THAT EUROPE -- THE EUROPE OF OUR
CHILDREN -- WILL BE OPEN, WHOLE, AND FREE.
WE CAN MAKE IT so IN TWO WAYS.
FIRST, A NEW EAST-WEST RELATIONSHIP MUST REST ON
GREATLY REDUCED LEVELS OF ARMS. WE IN THE WEST HAVE
PROPOSED DRAMATIC REDUCTIONS IN CONVENTIONAL ARMED
FORCES IN EUROPE, REDUCTIONS THAT PROMISE TO TRANSFORM
THE MILITARY MAP OF EUROPE AND DIMINISH THE VERY THREAT
OF WAR. THE NEW WILLINGNESS IN MOSCOW TO ACCEPT THIS
WESTERN FRAMEWORK FOR REDUCTIONS IN TROOPS, TANKS,
AIRCRAFT, AND OTHER CATEGORIES OF WEAPONS GIVES US HOPE
THAT THE NEGOTIATIONS IN VIENNA WILL SUCCEED. A GOOD
BEGINNING HAS BEEN MADE. CONSTRUCTIVE PROPOSALS ARE
BEING OFFERED ON BOTH SIDES. WE ARE DETERMINED TO PUSH
HARD FOR AN EARLY AND SUCCESSFUL CONCLUSION TO THESE
TALKS.
- 9 -
SECOND, REDUCTIONS IN MILITARY FORCES WILL GO
FURTHER AND BE MORE SUSTAINABLE IF THEY TAKE PLACE IN
PARALLEL WITH POLITICAL CHANGE. EXCESSIVE LEVELS OF
ARMS, WE BELIEVE, ARE THE SYMPTOM AND NOT THE SOURCE OF
POLITICAL TENSIONS. IN EUROPE, THOSE TENSIONS SPRING
FROM AN UNNATURAL AND CRUEL DIVISION.
POLAND'S DECISION TO EMBRACE POLITICAL REFORM --
AND HUNGARY'S MOVEMENTS IN THE SAME DIRECTION -- THUS
HAVE GREAT IMPORTANCE BEYOND THEIR BORDERS. BY
CREATING POLITICAL STRUCTURES LEGITIMIZED BY POPULAR
WILL, YOUR REFORMS CAN BE THE FOUNDATION OF STABILITY,
SECURITY, AND PROSPERITY -- NOT JUST HERE, BUT IN ALL
OF EUROPE, NOW AND INTO THE NEXT CENTURY.
MIKHAIL GORBACHEV HAS WRITTEN, "UNIVERSAL SECURITY
RESTS ON THE RECOGNITION OF THE RIGHT OF EVERY NATION
TO CHOOSE ITS OWN PATH OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT AND ON THE
RENUNCIATION OF INTERFERENCE IN THE DOMESTIC AFFAIRS OF
OTHER STATES. A NATION MAY CHOOSE EITHER CAPITALISM OR
SOCIALISM. THIS IS ITS SOVEREIGN RIGHT." IN
PRINCIPLE, I AGREE. BUT I MIGHT WELL HAVE SAID THAT
THE PEOPLE OF A NATION MAY FREELY CHOOSE EITHER A FREE
MARKET ECONOMY, OR SOCIALISM. THAT IS THEIR RIGHT.
- 10 -
AND so THE WEST WORKS NOT TO DISRUPT, NOT TO
INTERFERE, NOT TO THREATEN ANY NATION'S SECURITY, BUT
TO HELP FORGE CLOSER AND ENDURING TIES BETWEEN POLAND
AND THE REST OF EUROPE.
AS A RESULT OF THE ROUNDTABLE ACCORDS, POLAND'S
FATE LIES MORE THAN EVER IN POLISH HANDS. AND THERE IT
MUST EVER REMAIN.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR COUNTRY'S FUTURE IS
IMMENSE. POLAND'S FRIENDS, INCLUDING THE AMERICAN
PEOPLE, WANT POLAND TO BE FREE, PROSPEROUS, DEMOCRATIC,
AND INDEPENDENT -- TRUE TO THE BEST TRADITIONS OF YOUR
NATION'S PAST.
- 11 -
THE REGIME IS MOVING FORWARD WITH A SENSE OF
REALISM AND COURAGE, IN A TIME OF GREAT DIFFICULTY AND
CHALLENGE. LECH WALESA AND SOLIDARITY ARE DEEPLY
COMMITTED TO INSTITUTIONS IN POLAND THAT WILL SERVE ALL
ITS PEOPLE. THIS PARLIAMENT, BY ITS VERY EXISTENCE, IS
ADVANCING PLURALISM. AND THE CHURCH HAS SERVED AS A
SOURCE OF SPIRITUAL GUIDANCE AND UNITY IN TURBULENT
TIMES. BUT ABOVE ALL, THERE ARE THE PEOPLE OF POLAND -
- PEOPLE WHO ARE STEADFASTLY WORKING TOWARD PRODUCTIVE
CHANGE.
YET, EVEN UNDER THE BEST CIRCUMSTANCES,
REPRESENTATIVE GOVERNMENT HAS ITS OWN CHALLENGES. IT
REQUIRES PATIENCE, TOLERANCE, AND GIVE-AND-TAKE BETWEEN
POLITICAL OPPONENTS. BUT ITS VIRTUE IS THAT IT GRANTS
LEGITIMACY TO LEADERS AND THEIR POLICIES. IT GIVES
GOVERNMENTS AND SOCIETIES THE MANDATE TO MAKE HARD
CHOICES. AND THROUGH THEIR INVOLVEMENT, IT GIVES THE
PEOPLE A STAKE IN THE CHOICES THAT ARE MADE.
- 12 -
FOR OVER TWO HUNDRED YEARS, AMERICANS HAVE
WRESTLED OVER POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC INTERESTS, OVER
INDIVIDUAL AND CIVIL RIGHTS, AND THE ROLE OF A LOYAL
OPPOSITION. DEMOCRACY IS NOT A CONCLUSION, IT IS A
PROCESS -- AND PERFECTING IT NEVER ENDS. BUT
HISTORY HAS TAUGHT AMERICANS ONE VERY CLEAR LESSON:
DEMOCRACY WORKS.
WE UNDERSTAND IN MY COUNTRY THE ENORMOUS ECONOMIC
PROBLEMS YOU FACE. ECONOMIC PRIVATION IS A DANGER THAT
CAN THREATEN ANY GREAT DEMOCRATIC EXPERIMENT. I MUST
SPEAK HONESTLY: ECONOMIC REFORM AND RECOVERY CANNOT
OCCUR WITHOUT SACRIFICES. EVEN IN AN ECONOMY AS
PRODUCTIVE AS OURS, WE STILL DEBATE THE ROLE AND LIMITS
OF GOVERNMENT: HOW TO REGULATE THE PRIVATE SECTOR
WITHOUT DISCOURAGING INNOVATION. HOW TO REDUCE OUR OWN
BUDGET DEFICIT. HOW TO BALANCE WORKERS' NEEDS AND
INDUSTRIAL EFFICIENCY. HOW TO HANDLE THE PAINFUL
DISRUPTIONS OF CHANGE -- FOR THE SAKE OF PRODUCTIVITY,
PROGRESS, AND PROSPERITY.
- 13 -
THE REFORM OF THE POLISH ECONOMY WILL BE AN
HISTORIC CHALLENGE. THERE CAN BE NO SUBSTITUTE FOR
POLAND'S OWN EFFORTS. BUT I WANT TO STRESS TO YOU
TODAY THAT POLAND IS NOT ALONE. GIVEN THE ENORMITY OF
THIS MOMENT, THE UNITED STATES STANDS READY TO HELP YOU
AS YOU HELP YOURSELVES.
IN HAMTRAMCK, MICHIGAN, THREE MONTHS AGO, I
OUTLINED A POLICY OF SUPPORT FOR THE REFORMS THEN JUST
BEGINNING IN POLAND. I PROPOSED SPECIFIC STEPS,
CAREFULLY CHOSEN TO RECOGNIZE THE REFORMS UNDERWAY, AND
TO ENCOURAGE REFORMS YET TO COME. IT IS A POLICY BUILT
ON THE DYNAMIC INTERPLAY OF PROGRESS IN POLAND, AND
WESTERN ENGAGEMENT -- AND NOT ON UNSOUND CREDITS MADE
WITHOUT REGARD TO NECESSARY REFORMS. THAT WAS THE
RECORD OF THE 1970S, THAT POLAND AND THE UNITED STATES
NEED NOT REPEAT. OUR EFFORTS WILL BE CAREFULLY
TARGETED IN SUPPORT OF AN EMERGING NEW POLAND.
- 14 -
WE HAVE MADE PROGRESS ON THE STEPS ANNOUNCED AT
HAMTRAMCK. THIS IS WHERE WE STAND:
-- LEGISLATION IS WELL UNDERWAY THAT WILL HELP POLISH
EXPORTERS COMPETE MORE EFFECTIVELY IN THE U.S. MARKET
THROUGH OUR GENERALIZED SYSTEM OF PREFERENCES; AND THAT
WILL AUTHORIZE OUR OVERSEAS PRIVATE INVESTMENT
CORPORATION TO OPERATE IN POLAND, PROVIDING INVESTMENT
INSURANCE AND SETTING UP MISSIONS TO STIMULATE U.S.
INVESTMENT AND JOINT VENTURES HERE.
-- THE UNITED STATES IS PROPOSING A PRIVATE BUSINESS
AGREEMENT THAT WILL PROMOTE CONTACTS BETWEEN POLAND'S
GROWING PRIVATE BUSINESS SECTOR AND ITS AMERICAN
COUNTERPARTS. WE HOPE TO CONCLUDE AN AGREEMENT SOON,
TO BUILD ON WHAT PROMISES TO BE UNPRECEDENTED
OPPORTUNITY.
- 15 -
-- THERE IS GREAT INTEREST AND EXCITEMENT IN THE
UNITED STATES ABOUT WHAT YOU ARE DOING IN POLAND, AND A
CLEAR-CUT DESIRE TO HELP THE REFORM PROCESS. I HOSTED
A WHITE HOUSE SYMPOSIUM ON JULY 6, TO BRING TOGETHER
CITIZENS OF MY COUNTRY INTERESTED IN PROMOTING
INVESTMENT, TRADE, AND ACADEMIC EXCHANGE WITH POLAND
AND HUNGARY. I CAN ASSURE YOU THAT, MORE THAN EVER
BEFORE, THE AMERICAN PEOPLE WILL BE INVOLVED IN YOUR
DEMOCRATIC EXPERIMENT.
I HAVE SAID THAT AS POLAND REFORMS ITSELF, THE
U.S. WILL RESPOND. MUCH HAS HAPPENED EVEN IN THE SHORT
TIME SINCE HAMTRAMCK. so TODAY, I'M PLEASED TO
ANNOUNCE THAT WE PLAN TO DO MORE -- AND GO FARTHER --
FOR THE SAKE OF A STABLE AND PROSPEROUS POLAND:
- 16 -
-- FIRST, I WILL PROPOSE AT THE UPCOMING ECONOMIC
SUMMIT IN PARIS THAT THE NATIONS OF THE SUMMIT SEVEN
INTENSIFY THEIR COORDINATION AND CONCERTED ACTION TO
PROMOTE DEMOCRATIC REFORM IN POLAND AND HUNGARY, AND TO
HELP MANAGE COMPASSIONATELY THE PROCESS OF CHANGE. WE
WILL WORK WITH OUR PARTNERS AT THE SUMMIT, MOVING
QUICKLY WITH INCREASED WESTERN AID AND TECHNICAL
ASSISTANCE. THIS CONCERTED ACTION WILL COMPLEMENT
EXISTING INSTITUTIONS LIKE THE WORLD BANK, PARIS CLUB,
AND IMF, AND ADDRESS NEEDED ECONOMIC REFORMS, CREDITS,
MANAGEMENT AND TRAINING INITIATIVES, SOCIAL SAFETY
NETS, HOUSING, AND OTHER ISSUES IMPORTANT TO POLAND.
-- SECOND, I WILL ASK THE U.S. CONGRESS TO PROVIDE A.
$100 MILLION FUND TO CAPITALIZE AND INVIGORATE THE
POLISH PRIVATE SECTOR -- AND WE WILL ENCOURAGE PARALLEL
CONTRIBUTIONS FROM OTHER NATIONS OF THE ECONOMIC
SUMMIT.
- 17 -
-- THIRD, I WILL ENCOURAGE THE WORLD BANK TO MOVE
AHEAD WITH $325 MILLION IN ECONOMICALLY VIABLE LOANS TO
HELP POLISH AGRICULTURE AND INDUSTRY REACH THE
PRODUCTION LEVELS THEY ARE SO CLEARLY CAPABLE OF.
-- FOURTH, I WILL ASK MY COUNTERPARTS IN THE WEST TO
SUPPORT AN EARLY AND GENEROUS RESCHEDULING OF POLISH
DEBT. THIS COULD PROVIDE DEFERRAL OF DEBT PAYMENTS
AMOUNTING TO ABOUT $5 BILLION THIS YEAR -- IF OUR
ALLIES AND FRIENDS IN THE PARIS CLUB AGREE TO JOIN US
IN OFFERING LIBERALIZED TERMS. I PLAN TO DISCUSS THIS
ISSUE WITH MY COLLEAGUES AT THE PARIS SUMMIT.
- 18 -
-- FIFTH, ECONOMIC PROGRESS SHOULD NOT COME AT THE
EXPENSE OF OUR COMMON INHERITANCE -- THE ENVIRONMENT.
IN FACT, SOUND ECOLOGY AND A STRONG ECONOMY CAN AND
MUST COEXIST. AIR AND WATER POLLUTION KNOW NO
BOUNDARIES: THE CONCERN IS WORLDWIDE. ALMOST TWO
YEARS AGO I VISITED KRAKOW [KRA-KOV], YOUR FORMER ROYAL
CAPITAL -- A CITY RECOGNIZED BY UNESCO AS AN
INTERNATIONAL TREASURE. TODAY KRAKOW IS UNDER SIEGE BY
POLLUTION. ITS PRICELESS MONUMENTS ARE BEING
DESTROYED. KRAKOW MUST BE RECLAIMED. THE UNITED
STATES WILL HELP. [PAUSE] I WILL ASK THE CONGRESS FOR
$15 MILLION FOR A COOPERATIVE VENTURE WITH POLAND TO
HELP FIGHT AIR AND WATER POLLUTION IN KRAKOW.
-- SIXTH, AND FINALLY: WHEN I BEGAN MY REMARKS I
MENTIONED THE SHARED CULTURED HERITAGE OF OUR TWO
NATIONS. TODAY, I'M PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THAT MY COUNTRY
WILL ESTABLISH A CULTURAL AND INFORMATION CENTER IN
WARSAW -- AND WE WILL ASK POLAND TO ESTABLISH A SIMILAR
CENTER IN THE UNITED STATES. THIS WILL BE THE FIRST
TIME THAT EITHER OF OUR TWO COUNTRIES WILL BE ABLE TO
CONDUCT EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL PROGRAMS OUTSIDE OF
OUR EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES.
- 19 -
THE ELECTIONS WHICH BROUGHT US TOGETHER HERE TODAY
MEAN THAT THE PATH THE POLISH PEOPLE HAVE CHOSEN IS
THAT OF POLITICAL PLURALISM AND ECONOMIC REBIRTH. THE
ROAD AHEAD IS A LONG ONE. BUT IT IS THE ONLY ROAD
WHICH LEADS TO PROSPERITY AND SOCIAL PEACE. POLAND'S
PROGRESS ALONG THIS ROAD WILL SHOW THE WAY TOWARD A NEW
ERA THROUGHOUT EUROPE, AN ERA BASED ON COMMON VALUES
AND NOT JUST GEOGRAPHIC PROXIMITY. THE WESTERN
DEMOCRACIES WILL STAND WITH THE POLISH PEOPLE, AND
OTHER PEOPLES OF THIS REGION.
DEMOCRACY HAS CAPTURED THE SPIRIT OF OUR TIME.
LIKE ALL FORMS OF GOVERNMENT, THOUGH IT MAY BE
DEFENDED, DEMOCRACY CANNOT BE IMPOSED. WE BELIEVE IN
DEMOCRACY. FOR WITHOUT DOUBT, THOUGH DEMOCRACY MAY BE
A DREAM DEFERRED FOR MANY, IT REMAINS THE DESTINY OF
MAN.
TWO HUNDRED YEARS AGO, DEMOCRATIC CONSTITUTIONS
WERE ADOPTED BY THREE NATIONS, EMBODYING THE POWERFUL
INFLUENCE OF THE ENLIGHTENMENT -- AS A TESTAMENT TO
IDEAS THAT ENDURE.
- 20 -
THE AMERICAN CONSTITUTION WAS FIRST, AND HAS STOOD
THE TEST OF HISTORY FOR THE OVER 200 YEARS OF OUR
EXISTENCE AS A REPUBLIC. CONSTITUTIONAL DEMOCRACY IN
FRANCE BEGAN TWO CENTURIES AGO THIS SUMMER. AND IN A
FEW DAYS, LEADERS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD WILL BE IN
PARIS TO CELEBRATE THE ANNIVERSARY OF ITS BIRTH.
ON MAY 3, 1991, THE POLISH CONSTITUTION WILL ALSO
BE 200 YEARS OLD. YOUR CONSTITUTION OF 1791 WAS
CRUELLY CRUSHED, BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN. NOW, THIS
GENERATION'S CALLING IS TO REDEEM THE PROMISE OF A FREE
POLISH REPUBLIC. POLAND HAS NOT BEEN LOST SO LONG AS
THE POLISH SPIRIT LIVES.
AMERICA WISHES YOU WELL WITH ALL ITS HEART. GOD
IN HIS INFINITE WISDOM AND LOVE IS WITH US IN THIS
CHAMBER. MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR EFFORTS.
###
(Lange/Wallace)
July 8, 1989
1:30 p.m.
[POLAND.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
POLAND'S JOINT SESSION OF PARLIAMENT
THE SEJM
JULY 10, 1989
2:30 P.M.
(Koza-KEH-vich)
(Stel-ma-Hov-sky,
Chairman Jaruzelski, Marshalls Kozakiewiez A and Stelmachowskip,
Prime Minister Rakowski, Senators, and Delegates.
On behalf of the people of the United States of America, I
am honored to greet the newly-elected representatives of the
Polish Parliament. To be here with you on this occasion is proof
that we live in extraordinary, indeed thrilling times.
The power and potential of this moment was first made clear
aphoto a of
to me, when I saw General Jaruzelski and Solidarity Leader Lech
Walesa [vah-WEN-sah] sitting shoulder-to-shoulder -- committed to
new progress in Poland.
at the opening
session of parliament
Poland and the United States are bound, it is often said, by
ties of kinship and culture. But our peoples are linked by more
than sentiment.
The May 3 Constitution of 1791 set Poland ahead of her peers
-- and ahead of her time -- in the pursuit of freedom and
democratic ideas, just as the American Constitution of March 4.
1787 set new standards for protection of the rights of the
individual.
For decades, beginning with Expsident Wilson's
the Versailles Peace Conference,
POLACS, the United States has stood for Polish independence,
freedom, and prosperity. We are proud of our early and
2
longstanding commitment to Polish self-determination. As
America's President, I am here today to reaffirm that profound
commitment.
I understand something of the work you are commencing, for I
began my public service in the American Congress. Democratically
chosen legislatures are among mankind's greatest forums for
debate and dialogue. And while I have been to Poland before, I
did not expect to return so soon -- nor to such altered
circumstances in your country. So too, perhaps, many of you did
not expect to be here -- serving in this, or in any Polish
parliament. admistion Your achievement has surpassed all expectations and
carned
all
our
Our meeting today bears witness to the character of our age.
Some four hundred and fifty years ago, when the Polish
astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus came to understand the natural
order of the planets -- and had the courage to question accepted
wisdom -- the world was changed forever. From this year forward,
as Poland works to reaffirm the natural order of man and
government, so too will Poland be changed forever.
For Business! today the scope of political and economic
change in Poland is indeed
Copernican,
A fundamental change in
perspective, that places the people at the center. A new
understanding, that the governed are the true source of lasting
social peace and economic prosperity -- around which government
revolves, and exists to serve.
Poland has a rich democratic heritage. The May 3rd
Constitution was a stroke of genius. Today, at the dawn of that
3
document's third century, you are called upon to match its genius
with contemporary action. To make a peaceful transition toward
political and economic renewal -- through representative
government that expresses the will of the people.
I said a few weeks ago here in Europe that East and West
have arrived at the end of one era, and at the beginning of
another. Chairman Jaruzelski recently said of Poland that "the
life of the nation has undergone deep changes
society has the
full right to ask when a ray of sun will shine over Poland. In
this applies not just to Poland, but to the entirety of
relations between East and West.
A profound cycle of turmoil and great change is sweeping the
world from Poland to the Pacific. It is sometimes inspiring, as
here, in Warsaw. Sometimes it is agonizing, as in China today.
But the magnitude of change we sense around the world compels us
to look within ourselves -- and to God -- to forge a rare alloy
of courage and restraint.
The future beckons with both hope and uncertainty. Poland
and Hungary find themselves at a crossroads. Each has started
down its own road to reform, without guarantee of easy success.
The people of these nations -- and the courage of their leaders
command our admiration. The way is hard. But the moment is
right, both internally and internationally, for Poland to walk
its own path.
On the day Solidarity was restored, I spoke of my support
and admiration for the political experiment just getting underway
4
in Poland. You have since proceeded further along that road --
including holding the remarkable elections that produced this
Parliament. Let us consider what your experiment may mean, not
just for Poland, but for Europe and the world.
The divided world of the modern age began here, in Poland,
fifty years ago this summer. Your country -- and then nearly all
of Europe -- was first besieged and then occupied by
totalitarian, despotic forces. A courageous Poland was our ally.
In that fearful time, Franklin Roosevelt and Winston Churchill
devised the Atlantic Charter, which outlined principles on which
we hoped to build a better world -- including freedom from want
and fear, and the right of peoples to choose the form of
government under which they will live.
But as you know better than anyone, the world we sought then
was not to be. Stalinist systems were imposed over a third of a
continent. The Cold War began. The countries of the West
organized themselves in defense of democratic principles. We
proposed that the Marshall Plan include Eastern Europe. But
again, it was not to be.
The Western strategy of containment was a means, but was
never an end in itself. It was no substitute for a free and
united Europe. We did not forget the frustrated and lost hopes
of 1945, nor the promise of a better world. Neither did the
Polish people. You have been a crucible of conflict. You are
now becoming a vessel for change.
5
Poland is where the Cold War began -- and now the people of
Division of Europe
Poland can help bring the Cold wat to an end. The time has come
a
to move beyond containment to world too long deferred77 a
Getter worl
Now, at long last, two developments have allowed us to
redeem the principles of the Atlantic Charter for which the
United States and Poland fought as allies. One is the manifest
failure of the classic Stalinist system. The other is the
indomitable will of the people -- through leaders in Poland and
Hungary, who are working to overcome the mistakes of the past
with honesty, creativity, and courage. The world watches in
admiration.
Now -- in part because of what you are doing here -- the
all
genuine opportunity exists for us to build a Europe which many
thought was destroyed forever in the 1940s. That Europe -- the
Europe of our children -- will be open, whole, and free.
We can make it so in two ways.
First, a new East-West relationship must rest on greatly
reduced levels of arms. We in the West have proposed dramatic
reductions in conventional armed forces in Europe,
The new
willingness in Moscow to accept this Western framework for
aircraft,
reductions in troops, tanks, and other categories of weapons
gives us hope that the negotiations in Vienna will succeed. A
good beginning has been made. Constructive proposals are being
are determined
offered on both sides. We to push hard for an
early and successful conclusion to these talks.
reductions that promis
to transform the military
map of Europe and diminis
the very threat of war.
6
Second, reductions in military forces will go further and be
more sustainable if they take place in parallel with political
change. Excessive levels of arms, we believe, are the symptom
and not the source of political tensions. In Europe, those
tensions spring from an unnatural and cruel division.
Poland's decision to embrace political reform -- and
Hungary's movements in the same direction -- thus have great
importance beyond their borders. By creating political
structures legitimized by popular will, your reforms can be the
here
foundation of stability, security, and prosperity -- not just
of country, but in all of Europe, now and into the next
century.
Mikhail Gorbachev has written, "universal security rests on
the recognition of the right of every nation to choose its own
path of social development and on the renunciation of
interference in the domestic affairs of other states. A nation
may choose either capitalism or socialism. This is its sovereign
right." In principle, I agree. But I might well have savind that
the people of a nation may freely choose either a free market
economy, or socialism. That is their right.
And so the West works not to disrupt, not to interfere, not
to threaten any nation's security, but to help forge closer and
enduring ties between Poland and the rest of Europe.
As a result of the Roundtable Accords, Poland's fate lies
more than ever in Polish hands. And no outside force must ever
again intervene to stop Polish hands from doing Poland's work
and there it
must ever remain
7
future
Your responsibility for your country's 1118 is immense.
Poland's friends, including the American people, want Poland to
be free, prosperous, democratic, and independent -- true to the
best traditions of your nation's past.
But
we
cannot
lize
these goals for you.
The regime is moving forward with a sense of realism and
and challenge.
courage, in a time of great difficulty/ Lech Walesa and
Solidarity are deeply committed to institutions in Poland that
will serve all its people. This Parliament, by its very
existence, is advancing pluralism, and moving toward
And the Church has served as a source of spiritual guidance and
unity in turbulent times. But above all, there are the people of
Poland -- people who are steadfastly working toward productive
change.
representative government
Yet, even under the best circumstances,
demovacy
has
its
own challenges. It requires patience, tolerance, and give-and-
take between political opponents. But its virtue is that it
grants legitimacy to leaders and their policies. It gives
the
governments and societies mandate to make hard choices.
And through their involvement, it gives the people a stake in the choices that
are made.
For over two hundred years, Americans have wrestled over
political and economic interests, over individual and civil
rights, and the role of a loyal opposition. Democracy is not a
conclusion, it is a process -- and perfecting it never ends. But
8
history has taught Americans one very clear lesson: democracy
works.
We understand in my country the enormous economic problems
you face. Economic privation is a danger that threaten
great democratic experiment. I must speak honestly: economic
reform and recovery cannot occur without sacrifices. Even in an
economy as productive as ours, we still debate the role and
limits of government: How to regulate the private sector without
discouraging innovation. How to reduce our own budget deficit.
workers' needs
How to balance mights and industrial efficiency. How to
handle the painful disruptions of change -- for the sake of
productivity, progress, and prosperity.
The reform of the Polish economy will be an historic
challenge. There can be no substitute for Poland's own efforts.
But I want to stress to you today that Poland is not alone.
Given the enormity of this moment, the United States stands ready
to help you as you help yourselves.
In Hamtramck, Michigan, three months ago, I outlined a
policy of support for the reforms then just beginning in Poland.
I proposed specific steps, carefully chosen to recognize the
reforms underway, and to encourage reforms yet to come. It is a
policy built on the dynamic interplay of progress in Poland, and
Western engagement -- and not on unsound credits made without
regard to necessary reforms. That was the record of the 1970s,
that Poland and the United States need not repeat. Our efforts
will be carefully targeted in support of an emerging new Poland.
9
We have made progress on the steps announced at Hamtramck.
This is where we stand:
Legislation is well underway that will help Polish exporters
compete more effectively in the U.S. market through our
generalized system of preferences; and that will authorize our
Overseas Private Investment Corporation to operate in Poland,
providing investment insurance and setting up missions to
stimulate U.S. investment and joint ventures here.
-- The United States is proposing a private business agreement
that will promote contacts between Poland's growing private
business sector and its American counterparts. We hope to
conclude an agreement soon, to build on what promises to be
unprecedented opportunity.
-- There is great interest and excitement in the United States
and a clear-cut desire to help The reform process,
about what you are doing in Poland "A I hosted a White House
Symposium on July 6, to bring together citizens of my country
promoting
interested infinvestment, trade, and academic exchange with
more thanever before,
Poland and Hungary. I can assure you that, the American people
will
be
involved in your democratic experiment.
I have said that as Poland reforms itself, the U.S. will
respond. Much has happened even in the short time since
Hamtramck. So today, I'm pleased to announce that we plan to do
more -- and go farther -- for the sake of a stable and prosperous
Poland:
-- First, I will propose at the upcoming Economic Summit in
Paris that the nations of the Summit Seven intensify their
10
coordination and concerted action to promote democratic reform in
and to help manage compassionately the process of change,
Poland and Hungary ^ We will work with our partners at the
Summit, moving quickly with increased Western aid and technical
assistance. This concerted action will complement existing
institutions like the World Bank, Paris Club, and IMF, and
address needed economic reforms, credits, management and training
initiatives, social safety nets, housing, and other issues
important to Poland.
-- Second, I will ask the U.S. Congress to provide a $100
million fund to capitalize and invigorate the Polish private
sector -- and we will encourage parallel contributions from other
nations of the Economic Summit.
encourage
Third, I will the World Bank to move enginity ahead with
$325 million in economically viable loans to help Polish
agriculture and industry reach the production levels they are so
clearly capable of.
-- Fourth, I will ask my counterparts in the West to support an
early and generous rescheduling of Polish debt. This could
deferral of debt payments
about
provide debt relief amounting to almost $5 billion this year --
if our allies and friends in the Paris Club agree to join us in
liberalized
offering generous terms. I plan to discuss this issue with my
colleagues at the Paris Summit.
--
Fifth, economic progress should not come at the expense of
our common inheritance -- the environment. In fact, sound
ecology and a strong economy can and must coexist. Air and water
the concern is
pollution know no boundaries:
worldwide,
I
11
Almost two years ago I visited Krakow [KRA-KOV], your former
Royal Capital -- a city recognized by UNESCO as an international
treasure. Today Krakow is under siege by pollution. Its
priceless monuments are being destroyed. Krakow must be
reclaimed. The United States will help. [PAUSE] I will ask the
Congress for $15 million for a cooperative venture with Poland to
help fight air and water pollution in Krakow.
Sixth, and finally: When I began my remarks I mentioned the
shared cultured heritage of our two nations. Today, I'm proud to
announce that my country will establish a Cultural and
Information Center in Warsaw -- and we will ask Poland to
establish a similar center in the United States. This will be
the first time that either of our two countries will be able to
conduct educational and cultural programs outside of our
embassies and consulates.
The elections which brought us together here today mean that
the path the Polish people have chosen is that of political
pluralism and economic rebirth. The road ahead is a long one.
But it is the only road which leads to prosperity and social
peace. Poland's progress along this road will show the way
an era based on common values and not just geographic proximit
toward a new era throughout Europe, 1 The Western democracies will
stand with the Polish people, and other peoples of this region.
Democracy has captured the spirit of our time. Like all
democracy
forms of government, though it may be defended,
cannot be
imposed. We believe in democracy. For without doubt, though
12
democracy may be a dream deferred for many, it remains the
destiny of man.
Two hundred years ago, Democratic constitutions were adopted
by three nations, embodying the powerful influence of the
enlightenment -- as a testament to ideas that endure.
The American Constitution was first, and has stood the test
of history for the over 200 years of our existence as a republic.
Constitutional democracy in France began two centuries ago this
summer. And in a few days, leaders from all over the world will
be in Paris to celebrate the anniversary of its birth.
On May 3, 1991, the Polish constitution will also be 200
years old. Your constitution of 1791 was cruelly crushed, but
never forgotten. Now, this generation's calling is to redeem the
promise of a free Polish republic. Poland has not been lost, so long as the
Polish spirit live
America wishes you well with all its heart. God in his
infinite wisdom and love is with us in this Chamber. May God
bless you and your efforts.
# # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
June 28, 83,UN28 P5: 40
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
ROGER B. PORTER
RBP
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Poland Arrival
Ceremony
As requested, my office has reviewed and concurs with the
attached Presidential Remarks on the Poland Arrival Ceremony.
Attachment
C: James W. Cicconi
Document No. 04819655
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 6/27/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 12:00 NOON, 6/28/89
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: POLAND ARRIVAL CEREMONY
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
PINKERTON
CARD
ROGERS
CICCONI
WINSTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments/recommendations directly to
Chriss Winston (Ext. 2930, Rm. 122), with an info copy to
my office, no later than 12:00, NOON, WEDNESDAY, 6/28/89.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(McNally/Simon)
June 26 1989
2:00
27
AM ID: 37
prms
Draft Two
(POLAND)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: POLAND ARRIVAL CEREMONY
WARSAW AIRPORT
SUNDAY, JULY 9, 1989
9:50 P.M.
Thank you, Mr. President, for your kind hospitality and your
gracious words of welcome.
To you and to the people of Poland -- friends and cousins of
SO many in my homeland -- we extend the heartfelt best wishes of
the American people.
In my first moments as President, I told my countrymen that
a new breeze was blowing across the world. And the winds of
change have surely touched the land here, where so much has
happened since my last visit.
It is wonderful to be back at such an exciting time.
History -- which has SO often conspired with geography to deny
the Polish people their freedom -- now offers up a chance for
Poland to do what has never been done before.
Poland has started along an ascending path of democratic
change. This climb is exhilarating, but not always easy, and
will require further sacrifices. But -- if followed -- it will
lead to a second renaissance for this great nation.
We have great hopes for Poland. Solidarity is again legal.
The beginnings of a free press now exist. A new Parliament is in
place and the Polish Senate has been restored through free and
2
fair elections. Poland is making its own history. And America
-- and the world -- is watching.
The government of Poland and you, Mr. President, have shown
wisdom and courage in taking the path of the Roundtable accords.
The world is inspired by what is happening here.
Mr. President, we look forward to our talks with you and
other representatives of the Polish government -- and with the
democratic opposition. I hope to meet as many of the Polish
people as possible, and to hear candid views from all walks of
life.
And as we begin these discussions, I carry with me many
happy memories of my first visit to Poland. And my thoughts turn
to the memory of another Sunday outside Warsaw, when we attended
morning mass at St. Margaret's church in Lomianki [ [WOE-mee AHN-
kall. The cracks of her historic walls were filled with flowers,
and the church itself was filled to overflowing with your
countrymen, their devoted faces touched by tears of joy.
It reminds me of other churches I've visited since that
morning at St. Margaret's. Churches like St. Adalbert's in
Philadelphia, and St. Hyacinth's in Chicago. Churches built by
Polish hands, and nurtured by Polish dreams. In America -- and
in Poland -- those dreams are as ancient and as fundamental as
the courageous spirit of the Polish people.
And as we meet this evening in Warsaw, the sun still shines
on those churches across the seas. There it is still Sunday
afternoon, and America's churches are filled with people in
3
prayer. And as we begin these discussions -- and as you begin
the hard journey up the path you have chosen -- my prayers, and
the prayers of the American people, remain with you -- as they
have throughout your long struggle.
There is a good deal of work to be done. And we will work
together to gain new ground -- to expand our common ground -- in
U.S. - Polish ties.
Thank you again for this warm welcome. Rest well on this
Sunday night. And -- "Long Live Poland."
#
#
#
(Lange/Wallace)
July 8, 1989
1:30 p.m.
[POLAND. DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
POLAND'S JOINT SESSION OF PARLIAMENT
THE SEJM
JULY 10, 1989
2:30 P.M.
Chairman Jaruzelski, Marshals
and
,
Prime Minister Rakowski, Senators, and Delegates.
On behalf of the people of the United States of America, I
am honored to greet the newly-elected representatives of the
Polish Parliament. To be here with you on this occasion is proof
that we live in extraordinary, indeed thrilling times.
The power and potential of this moment was first made clear
to me, when I saw General Jaruzelski and Solidarity Leader Lech
Walesa [vah-WEN-sah] sitting shoulder-to-shoulder -- committed to
new progress in Poland.
Poland and the United States are bound, it is often said, by
ties of kinship and culture. But our peoples are linked by more
than sentiment.
The May 3 Constitution of 1791 set Poland ahead of her peers
-- and ahead of her time -- in the pursuit of freedom and
democratic ideas, just as the American Constitution of March 4,
1789 set new standards for protection of the rights of the
individual.
For decades, beginning with President Wilson's Fourteen
Points, the United States has stood for Polish independence,
freedom, and prosperity. We are proud of our early and
2
longstanding commitment to Polish self-determination. As
America's President, I am here today to reaffirm that profound
commitment.
I understand something of the work you are commencing, for I
began my public service in the American Congress. Democratically
chosen legislatures are among mankind's greatest forums for
debate and dialogue. And while I have been to Poland before, I
did not expect to return so soon -- nor to such altered
circumstances in your country. So too, perhaps, many of you did
not expect to be here -- serving in this, or in any Polish
parliament. Your achievement has surpassed all expectations.
Our meeting today bears witness to the character of our age.
Some four hundred and fifty years ago, when the Polish
astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus came to understand the natural
order of the planets -- and had the courage to question accepted
wisdom -- the world was changed forever. From this year forward,
as Poland works to reaffirm the natural order of man and
government, so too will Poland be changed forever.
For Poland today is undergoing the political and economic
equivalent of a Copernican revolution. A fundamental change in
perspective, that places the people at the center. A new
understanding, that the governed are the true source of lasting
social peace and economic prosperity -- around which government
revolves, and exists to serve.
Poland has a rich democratic heritage. The May 3rd
Constitution was a stroke of genius. Today, at the dawn of that
3
document's third century, you are called upon to match its genius
with contemporary action. To make a peaceful transition toward
political and economic renewal -- through representative
government that expresses the will of the people.
I said a few weeks ago here in Europe that East and West
have arrived at the end of one era, and at the beginning of
another. Chairman Jaruzelski recently said of Poland that "the
life of the nation has undergone deep changes
society has the
full right to ask when a ray of sun will shine over Poland.' In
fact, this applies not just to Poland, but to the entirety of
relations between East and West.
A profound cycle of turmoil and great change is sweeping the
world from Poland to the Pacific. It is sometimes inspiring, as
here, in Warsaw. Sometimes it is agonizing, as in China today.
But the magnitude of change we sense around the world compels us
to look within ourselves -- and to God -- to forge a rare alloy
of courage and restraint.
The future beckons with both hope and uncertainty. Poland
and Hungary find themselves at a crossroads. Each has started
down its own road to reform, without guarantee of easy success.
The people of these nations -- and the courage of their leaders
-- command our admiration. The way is hard. But the moment is
right, both internally and internationally, for Poland to walk
its own path.
On the day Solidarity was restored, I spoke of my support
and admiration for the political experiment just getting underway
4
in Poland. You have since proceeded further along that road --
including holding the remarkable elections that produced this
Parliament. Let us consider what your experiment may mean, not
just for Poland, but for Europe and the world.
The divided world of the modern age began here, in Poland,
fifty years ago this summer. Your country -- and then nearly all
of Europe -- was first besieged and then occupied by
totalitarian, despotic forces. A courageous Poland was our ally.
In that fearful time, Franklin Roosevelt and Winston Churchill
devised the Atlantic Charter, which outlined principles on which
we hoped to build a better world -- including freedom from want
and fear, and the right of peoples to choose the form of
government under which they will live.
But as you know better than anyone, the world we sought then
was not to be. Stalinist systems were imposed over a third of a
continent. The Cold War began. The countries of the West
organized themselves in defense of democratic principles. We
proposed that the Marshall Plan include Eastern Europe. But
again, it was not to be.
The Western strategy of containment was a means, but was
never an end in itself. It was no substitute for a free and
united Europe. We did not forget the frustrated and lost hopes
of 1945, nor the promise of a better world. Neither did the
Polish people. You have been a crucible of conflict. You are
now becoming a vessel for change.
5
Poland is where the Cold War began -- and now the people of
Poland can help bring the Cold War to an end. The time has come
to move beyond containment to the better world too long deferred.
Now, at long last, two developments have allowed us to
redeem the principles of the Atlantic Charter for which the
United States and Poland fought as allies. One is the manifest
failure of the classic Stalinist system. The other is the
indomitable will of the people -- through leaders in Poland and
Hungary, who are working to overcome the mistakes of the past
with honesty, creativity, and courage. The world watches in
admiration.
Now -- in part because of what you are doing here -- the
genuine opportunity exists for us to build a Europe which many
thought was destroyed forever in the 1940s. That Europe -- the
Europe of our children -- will be open, whole, and free.
We can make it so in two ways.
First, a new East-West relationship must rest on greatly
reduced levels of arms. We in the West have proposed dramatic
reductions in conventional armed forces in Europe. The new
willingness in Moscow to accept this Western framework for
reductions in troops, tanks, and other categories of weapons
gives us hope that the negotiations in Vienna will succeed. A
good beginning has been made. Constructive proposals are being
offered on both sides. We must continue to push hard for an
early and successful conclusion to these talks.
6
Second, reductions in military forces will go further and be
more sustainable if they take place in parallel with political
change. Excessive levels of arms, we believe, are the symptom
and not the source of political tensions. In Europe, those
tensions spring from an unnatural and cruel division.
Poland's decision to embrace political reform -- and
Hungary's movements in the same direction -- thus have great
importance beyond their borders. By creating political
structures legitimized by popular will, your reforms can be the
foundation of stability, security, and prosperity -- not just in
your country, but in all of Europe, now and into the next
century.
Mikhail Gorbachev has written, "universal security rests on
the recognition of the right of every nation to choose its own
path of social development and on the renunciation of
interference in the domestic affairs of other states. A nation
may choose either capitalism or socialism. This is its sovereign
right.' In principle, I agree. But I might well have said that
the people of a nation may freely choose either a free market
economy, or socialism. That is their right.
And so the West works not to disrupt, not to interfere, not
to threaten any nation's security, but to help forge closer and
enduring ties between Poland and the rest of Europe.
As a result of the Roundtable Accords, Poland's fate lies
more than ever in Polish hands. And no outside force must ever
again intervene to stop Polish hands from doing Poland's work.
7
Your responsibility for your country's fate is immense.
Poland's friends, including the American people, want Poland to
be free, prosperous, democratic, and independent -- true to the
best traditions of your nation's past. But we cannot realize
these goals for you.
The regime is moving forward with a sense of realism and
courage, in a time of great difficulty. Lech Walesa and
Solidarity are deeply committed to institutions in Poland that
will serve all its people. This Parliament, by its very
existence, is advancing pluralism, and moving toward democracy.
And the Church has served as a source of spiritual guidance and
unity in turbulent times. But above all, there are the people of
Poland -- people who are steadfastly working toward productive
change.
Yet, even under the best circumstances, democracy has its
own challenges. It requires patience, tolerance, and give-and-
take between political opponents. But its virtue is that it
grants legitimacy to leaders and their policies. It gives
governments and societies a mandate to make hard choices. You
and I know that hard choices and austerity lie ahead for Poland.
My country understands this.
For over two hundred years, Americans have wrestled over
political and economic interests, over individual and civil
rights, and the role of a loyal opposition. Democracy is not a
conclusion, it is a process -- and perfecting it never ends. But
8
history has taught Americans one very clear lesson: democracy
works.
We understand in my country the enormous economic problems
you face. Economic privation is a danger that threatens this
great democratic experiment. I must speak honestly: economic
reform and recovery cannot occur without sacrifices. Even in an
economy as productive as ours, we still debate the role and
limits of government: How to regulate the private sector without
discouraging innovation. How to reduce our own budget deficit.
How to balance union rights and industrial efficiency. How to
handle the painful disruptions of change -- for the sake of
productivity, progress, and prosperity.
The reform of the Polish economy will be an historic
challenge. There can be no substitute for Poland's own efforts.
But I want to stress to you today that Poland is not alone.
Given the enormity of this moment, the United States stands ready
to help you as you help yourselves.
In Hamtramck, Michigan, three months ago, I outlined a
policy of support for the reforms then just beginning in Poland.
I proposed specific steps, carefully chosen to recognize the
reforms underway, and to encourage reforms yet to come. It is a
policy built on the dynamic interplay of progress in Poland, and
Western engagement -- and not on unsound credits made without
regard to necessary reforms. That was the record of the 1970s,
that Poland and the United States need not repeat. Our efforts
will be carefully targeted in support of an emerging new Poland.
9
We have made progress on the steps announced at Hamtramck.
This is where we stand:
-- Legislation is well underway that will help Polish exporters
compete more effectively in the U.S. market through our
generalized system of preferences; and that will authorize our
Overseas Private Investment Corporation to operate in Poland,
providing investment insurance and setting up missions to
stimulate U.S. investment and joint ventures here.
-- The United States is proposing a private business agreement
that will promote contacts between Poland's growing private
business sector and its American counterparts. We hope to
conclude an agreement soon, to build on what promises to be
unprecedented opportunity.
-- There is great interest and excitement in the United States
about what you are doing in Poland. I hosted a White House
Symposium on July 6, to bring together citizens of my country
interested in investment, trade, and academic exchange with
Poland and Hungary. I can assure you that the American people
will be ever more involved in your democratic experiment.
I have said that as Poland reforms itself, the U.S. will
respond. Much has happened even in the short time since
Hamtramck. So today, I'm pleased to announce that we plan to do
more -- and go farther -- for the sake of a stable and prosperous
Poland:
-- First, I will propose at the upcoming Economic Summit in
Paris that the nations of the Summit Seven intensify their
10
coordination and concerted action to promote democratic reform in
Poland and Hungary. We will work with our partners at the
Summit, moving quickly with increased Western aid and technical
assistance. This concerted action will complement existing
institutions like the World Bank, Paris Club, and IMF, and
address needed economic reforms, credits, management and training
initiatives, social safety nets, housing, and other issues
important to Poland.
-- Second, I will ask the U.S. Congress to provide a $100
million fund to capitalize and invigorate the Polish private
sector -- and we will encourage parallel contributions from other
nations of the Economic Summit.
[[-- Third, I will ask the World Bank to move rapidly ahead with
$325 million in economically viable loans to help Polish
agriculture and industry reach the production levels they are so
clearly capable of. ]]
-- Fourth, I will ask my counterparts in the West to support an
early and generous rescheduling of Polish debt. This could
provide debt relief amounting to almost $5 billion this year --
if our allies and friends in the Paris Club agree to join us in
offering generous terms. I plan to discuss this issue with my
colleagues at the Paris Summit.
-- Fifth, economic progress should not come at the expense of
our common inheritance -- the environment. In fact, sound
ecology and a strong economy can and must coexist. Air and water
pollution know no boundaries, but are a worldwide concern.
11
Almost two years ago I visited Krakow [KRA-KOV], your former
Royal Capital -- a city recognized by UNESCO as an international
treasure. Today Krakow is under siege by pollution. Its
priceless monuments are being destroyed. Krakow must be
reclaimed. The United States will help. [PAUSE] I will ask the
Congress for $15 million for a cooperative venture with Poland to
help fight air and water pollution in Krakow.
-- Sixth, and finally: When I began my remarks I mentioned the
shared cultured heritage of our two nations. Today, I'm proud to
announce that my country will establish a Cultural and
Information Center in Warsaw -- and we will ask Poland to
establish a similar center in the United States. This will be
the first time that either of our two countries will be able to
conduct educational and cultural programs outside of our
embassies and consulates.
The elections which brought us together here today mean that
the path the Polish people have chosen is that of political
pluralism and economic rebirth. The road ahead is a long one.
But it is the only road which leads to prosperity and social
peace. Poland's progress along this road will show the way
toward a new era throughout Europe. The Western democracies will
stand with the Polish people, and other peoples of this region.
Democracy has captured the spirit of our time. Like all
forms of government, though it may be defended, it cannot be
imposed. We believe in democracy. For without doubt, though
12
democracy may be a dream deferred for many, it remains the
destiny of man.
Two hundred years ago, Democratic constitutions were adopted
by three nations, embodying the powerful influence of the
enlightenment -- as a testament to ideas that endure.
The American Constitution was first, and has stood the test
of history for the over 200 years of our existence as a republic.
Constitutional democracy in France began two centuries ago this
summer. And in a few days, leaders from all over the world will
be in Paris to celebrate the anniversary of its birth.
On May 3, 1991, the Polish constitution will also be 200
years old. Your constitution of 1791 was cruelly crushed, but
never forgotten. Now, this generation's calling is to redeem the
promise of a free Polish republic. Poland has not been lost.
America wishes you well with all its heart. God in his
infinite wisdom and love is with us in this Chamber. May God
bless you and your efforts.
###
89 JUN 30 P3:35
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
June 30, 1989
Memorandum to Chriss Winston
From:
Jim Pinkerton
Re:
Comments on Joint Session and Monument drafts
Joint Session
I really liked this draft. It is bold, both rhetorically
and substantively. I suppose the news in America will be what-
ever policies are proposed, but I have to believe that the
Polish people will be impressed by the deft use of Copernicus
and the blunt account of the Red Army's role in post-war Poland.
I have a few nitpicks:
Pg. 2, graf 5, line 1 The reputation of the efficacy of
18th century Polish government is pretty low. That is, the Poles
are seen by history as having contributed to their own demise
in three successive partitions due to their inability to rally
together. I will take on faith that the constitution of 1791 was
indeed a substantial improvement, that Poles remember as such.
But we should make sure of this. After all, Poland ceased to
exist just a few years later!
3,2,3 I think that "terribly painful" is insufficient. I
certainly support the President's restraint in the wake of the
Tian An Men square massacre, but this is a little too soft line.
3,4,1 It's a small thing, but to simply say Solidarity
was "re-legalized" understates the immense significance. I would
add "restored" first.
Monument
2,3,4 I wouldn't call Walesa an "improbable" hero. That's
not particularly complimentary in English; I worry about how well
it will translate into Polish!
6,1,1 I'm glad to see the "what works" riff back.
(Lange/Wallace)
July 8, 1989
1:30 p.m.
[POLAND.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
POLAND'S JOINT SESSION OF PARLIAMENT
THE SEJM
JULY 10, 1989
2:30 P.M.
Chairman Jaruzelski, Marshals
and
,
Prime Minister Rakowski, Senators, and Delegates.
On behalf of the people of the United States of America, I
am honored to greet the newly-elected representatives of the
Polish Parliament. To be here with you on this occasion is proof
that we live in extraordinary, indeed thrilling times.
The power and potential of this moment was first made clear
aphotoof
to me, when I saw General Jaruzelski and Solidarity Leader Lech
Walesa [vah-WEN-sah] sitting shoulder-to-shoulder committed to
new progress in Poland.
at the opening Patient
Poland and the United States are bound, it is often said, by
ties of kinship and culture. But our peoples are linked by more
than sentiment.
The May 3 Constitution of 1791 set Poland ahead of her peers
-- and ahead of her time -- in the pursuit of freedom and
democratic ideas, just as the American Constitution of March 4,
1789 set new standards for protection of the rights of the
individual.
the Versailles Peace Conference,
For decades, beginning with President Wilson
FOLATS, the United States has stood for Polish independence,
freedom, and prosperity. We are proud of our early and
2
longstanding commitment to Polish self-determination. As
America's President, I am here today to reaffirm that profound
commitment.
I understand something of the work you are commencing, for I
began my public service in the American Congress. Democratically
chosen legislatures are among mankind's greatest forums for
debate and dialogue. And while I have been to Poland before, I
did not expect to return so soon -- nor to such altered
circumstances in your country. So too, perhaps, many of you did
not expect to be here -- serving in this, or in any Polish
has
parliament. admistion Your achievement has surpassed all expectations and
carned
all
Our meeting today bears witness to the character of our age.
Some four hundred and fifty years ago, when the Polish
astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus came to understand the natural
order of the planets -- and had the courage to question accepted
wisdom --- the world was changed forever. From this year forward,
as Poland works to reaffirm the natural order of man and
government, so too will Poland be changed forever.
For
Backand
the scope of
today
political and economic
change in Poland is indeed
Copernican.
A fundamental change in
perspective, that places the people at the center. A new
understanding, that the governed are the true source of lasting
social peace and economic prosperity -- around which government
revolves, and exists to serve.
Poland has a rich democratic heritage. The May 3rd
Constitution was a stroke of genius. Today, at the dawn of that
3
document's third century, you are called upon to match its genius
with contemporary action. To make a peaceful transition toward
political and economic renewal -- through representative
government that expresses the will of the people.
I said a few weeks ago here in Europe that East and West
have arrived at the end of one era, and at the beginning of
another. Chairman Jaruzelski recently said of Poland that "the
life of the nation has undergone deep changes
society has the
full right to ask when a ray of sun will shine over Poland.' In
truth,
this applies not just to Poland, but to the entirety of
relations between East and West.
A profound cycle of turmoil and great change is sweeping the
world from Poland to the Pacific. It is sometimes inspiring, as
here, in Warsaw. Sometimes it is agonizing, as in China today.
But the magnitude of change we sense around the world compels us
to look within ourselves -- and to God -- to forge a rare alloy
of courage and restraint.
The future beckons with both hope and uncertainty. Poland
and Hungary find themselves at a crossroads. Each has started
down its own road to reform, without guarantee of easy success.
The people of these nations -- and the courage of their leaders
-- command our admiration. The way is hard. But the moment is
right, both internally and internationally, for Poland to walk
its own path.
On the day Solidarity was restored, I spoke of my support
and admiration for the political experiment just getting underway
4
in Poland. You have since proceeded further along that road --
including holding the remarkable elections that produced this
Parliament. Let us consider what your experiment may mean, not
just for Poland, but for Europe and the world.
The divided world of the modern age began here, in Poland,
fifty years ago this summer. Your country -- and then nearly all
of Europe -- was first besieged and then occupied by
totalitarian, despotic forces. A courageous Poland was our ally.
In that fearful time, Franklin Roosevelt and Winston Churchill
devised the Atlantic Charter, which outlined principles on which
we hoped to build a better world -- including freedom from want
and fear, and the right of peoples to choose the form of
government under which they will live.
But as you know better than anyone, the world we sought then
was not to be. Stalinist systems were imposed over a third of a
continent. The Cold War began. The countries of the West
organized themselves in defense of democratic principles. We
proposed that the Marshall Plan include Eastern Europe. But
again, it was not to be.
The Western strategy of containment was a means, but was
never an end in itself. It was no substitute for a free and
united Europe. We did not forget the frustrated and lost hopes
of 1945, nor the promise of a better world. Neither did the
Polish people. You have been a crucible of conflict. You are
now becoming a vessel for change.
5
Poland is where the Cold War began -- and now the people of
DMision of Gurope
Poland can help bring the Cold War to an end. The time has come
a
to move beyond containment to world too long deferred a
Getter world.
Now, at long last, two developments have allowed us to
redeem the principles of the Atlantic Charter for which the
United States and Poland fought as allies. One is the manifest
failure of the classic Stalinist system. The other is the
indomitable will of the people -- through leaders in Poland and
Hungary, who are working to overcome the mistakes of the past
with honesty, creativity, and courage. The world watches in
admiration.
Now -- in part because of what you are doing here -- the
all of
genuine opportunity exists for us to build a Europe which many
thought was destroyed forever in the 1940s. That Europe -- the
Europe of our children -- will be open, whole, and free.
We can make it so in two ways.
First, a new East-West relationship must rest on greatly
reduced levels of arms. We in the West have proposed dramatic
reductions in conventional armed forces in Europe,
The new
willingness in Moscow to accept this Western framework for
aircraft,
reductions in troops, tanks 'A and other categories of weapons
gives us hope that the negotiations in Vienna will succeed. A
good beginning has been made. Constructive proposals are being
are determined
offered on both sides. We to push hard for an
early and successful conclusion to these talks.
reductions That promise
to transform the military
map of Europe and diminish
the very threat of war.
6
Second, reductions in military forces will go further and be
more sustainable if they take place in parallel with political
change. Excessive levels of arms, we believe, are the symptom
and not the source of political tensions. In Europe, those
tensions spring from an unnatural and cruel division.
Poland's decision to embrace political reform -- and
Hungary's movements in the same direction -- thus have great
importance beyond their borders. By creating political
structures legitimized by popular will, your reforms can be the
here
foundation of stability, security, and prosperity -- not just in
AUG country, but in all of Europe, now and into the next
century.
Mikhail Gorbachev has written, "universal security rests on
the recognition of the right of every nation to choose its own
path of social development and on the renunciation of
interference in the domestic affairs of other states. A nation
may choose either capitalism or socialism. This is its sovereign
right." In principle, I agree. But I might well have seving that
the people of a nation may freely choose either a free market
economy, or socialism. That is their right.
And so the West works not to disrupt, not to interfere, not
to threaten any nation's security, but to help forge closer and
enduring ties between Poland and the rest of Europe.
As a result of the Roundtable Accords, Poland's fate lies
more than ever in Polish hands. And no outside force must ever
again intervene to stop Polish hands from doing Poland's work
and there it
must ever remain
7
future
Your responsibility for your country's
is immense.
Poland's friends, including the American people, want Poland to
be free, prosperous, democratic, and independent true to the
best traditions of your nation's past. But we cannot realize
these goals for you.
The regime is moving forward with a sense of realism and
and challenge.
courage, in a time of great difficultyA Lech Walesa and
Solidarity are deeply committed to institutions in Poland that
will serve all its people. This Parliament, by its very
existence, is advancing pluralism, and moving
And the Church has served as a source of spiritual guidance and
unity in turbulent times. But above all, there are the people of
Poland -- people who are steadfastly working toward productive
change.
representative government
Yet, even under the best circumstances
^
has its
own challenges. It requires patience, tolerance, and give-and-
take between political opponents. But its virtue is that it
grants legitimacy to leaders and their policies. It gives
the
governments and societies mandate to make hard choices.
And through their involvement, it gives the people a stake in the choices that
are made.
For over two hundred years, Americans have wrestled over
political and economic interests, over individual and civil
rights, and the role of a loyal opposition. Democracy is not a
conclusion, it is a process -- and perfecting it never ends. But
8
history has taught Americans one very clear lesson: democracy
works.
We understand in my country the enormous economic problems
you face. Economic privation is a danger that threaten
great democratic experiment. I must speak honestly: economic
reform and recovery cannot occur without sacrifices. Even in an
economy as productive as ours, we still debate the role and
limits of government: How to regulate the private sector without
discouraging innovation. How to reduce our own budget deficit.
workers' needs
How to balance
and industrial efficiency. How to
handle the painful disruptions of change -- for the sake of
productivity, progress, and prosperity.
The reform of the Polish economy will be an historic
challenge. There can be no substitute for Poland's own efforts.
But I want to stress to you today that Poland is not alone.
Given the enormity of this moment, the United States stands ready
to help you as you help yourselves.
In Hamtramck, Michigan, three months ago, I outlined a
policy of support for the reforms then just beginning in Poland.
I proposed specific steps, carefully chosen to recognize the
reforms underway, and to encourage reforms yet to come. It is a
policy built on the dynamic interplay of progress in Poland, and
Western engagement -- and not on unsound credits made without
regard to necessary reforms. That was the record of the 1970s,
that Poland and the United States need not repeat. Our efforts
will be carefully targeted in support of an emerging new Poland.
9
We have made progress on the steps announced at Hamtramck.
This is where we stand:
-- Legislation is well underway that will help Polish exporters
compete more effectively in the U.S. market through our
generalized system of preferences; and that will authorize our
Overseas Private Investment Corporation to operate in Poland,
providing investment insurance and setting up missions to
stimulate U.S. investment and joint ventures here.
-- The United States is proposing a private business agreement
that will promote contacts between Poland's growing private
business sector and its American counterparts. We hope to
conclude an agreement soon, to build on what promises to be
unprecedented opportunity.
-- There is great interest and excitement in the United States
and a clear-cut desire to help The reform process,
about what you are doing in Poland,A I hosted a White House
Symposium on July 6, to bring together citizens of my country
promoting
interested infinvestment, trade, and academic exchange with
more thanever before,
Poland and Hungary. I can assure you that the American people
will be
eventment
involved in your democratic experiment.
I have said that as Poland reforms itself, the U.S. will
respond. Much has happened even in the short time since
Hamtramck. So today, I'm pleased to announce that we plan to do
more -- and go farther -- for the sake of a stable and prosperous
Poland:
-- First, I will propose at the upcoming Economic Summit in
Paris that the nations of the Summit Seven intensify their
10
coordination and concerted action to promote democratic reform in
and to help manage compassionately the process of change,
Poland and Hungary ^ We will work with our partners at the
Summit, moving quickly with increased Western aid and technical
assistance. This concerted action will complement existing
institutions like the World Bank, Paris Club, and IMF, and
address needed economic reforms, credits, management and training
initiatives, social safety nets, housing, and other issues
important to Poland.
-- Second, I will ask the U.S. Congress to provide a $100
million fund to capitalize and invigorate the Polish private
sector -- and we will encourage parallel contributions from other
nations of the Economic Summit.
encourage
Third, I will the World Bank to move ahead with
?
$325 million in economically viable loans to help Polish
agriculture and industry reach the production levels they are so
clearly capable of.
till
Fourth, I will ask my counterparts in the West to support an
early and generous rescheduling of Polish debt. This could
defenral of program debt payment
provide debt spelief amounting to almost $5 billion this year --
if our allies and friends in the Paris Club agree to join us in
liberalized
offering generous terms. I plan to discuss this issue with my
colleagues at the Paris Summit.
-- Fifth, economic progress should not come at the expense of
our common inheritance -- the environment. In fact, sound
ecology and a strong economy can and must coexist. Air and water
the concern is
pollution know no boundaries:
worldwide,
11
Almost two years ago I visited Krakow [KRA-KOV], your former
Royal Capital -- a city recognized by UNESCO as an international
treasure. Today Krakow is under siege by pollution. Its
priceless monuments are being destroyed. Krakow must be
reclaimed. The United States will help. [PAUSE] I will ask the
Congress for $15 million for a cooperative venture with Poland to
help fight air and water pollution in Krakow.
Sixth, and finally: When I began my remarks I mentioned the
shared cultured heritage of our two nations. Today, I'm proud to
announce that my country will establish a Cultural and
Information Center in Warsaw -- and we will ask Poland to
establish a similar center in the United States. This will be
the first time that either of our two countries will be able to
conduct educational and cultural programs outside of our
embassies and consulates.
The elections which brought us together here today mean that
the path the Polish people have chosen is that of political
pluralism and economic rebirth. The road ahead is a long one.
But it is the only road which leads to prosperity and social
peace. Poland's progress along this road will show the way
an era based on common values and not just geographic proximity.
toward a new era throughout Europe, ^ The Western democracies will
stand with the Polish people, and other peoples of this region.
Democracy has captured the spirit of our time. Like all
democracy
forms of government, though it may be defended, cannot
be
imposed. We believe in democracy. For without doubt, though
12
democracy may be a dream deferred for many, it remains the
destiny of man.
Two hundred years ago, Democratic constitutions were adopted
by three nations, embodying the powerful influence of the
enlightenment -- as a testament to ideas that endure.
The American Constitution was first, and has stood the test
of history for the over 200 years of our existence as a republic.
Constitutional democracy in France began two centuries ago this
summer. And in a few days, leaders from all over the world will
be in Paris to celebrate the anniversary of its birth.
On May 3, 1991, the Polish constitution will also be 200
years old. Your constitution of 1791 was cruelly crushed, but
never forgotten. Now, this generation's calling is to redeem the
promise of a free Polish republic. Poland has not been lost, so long as the
Polish spirit lives,
America wishes you well with all its heart. God in his
infinite wisdom and love is with us in this Chamber. May God
bless you and your efforts.
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