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Hungary 10/26/89
[OA 3536]
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25
6
5
6
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
October 26, 1989
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
AT SIGNING CEREMONY FOR
MOST FAVORED NATION STATUS TO HUNGARY
The Rose Garden
10:00 A.M. EDT
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you. Please be seated. On this
beautiful day at the White House, welcome. Secretary Baker and
Secretary Mosbacher, Carla Hills, our able U.S. Trade Representative.
I see our Secretary Derwinski and Watkins, Bill Reilly, Bruce Gelb.
Mr. Teller, it's a delight to see you here, sir. And the
distinguished members of the United States Congress who are with us,
welcome all. I see the Chairman of our Foreign Relations Committee,
Senator Clayburn Pell, here, and Bill Broomfield -- all of you,
welcome.
It was my privilege to return to Hungary last summer and
become the first American President to visit a nation that is SO much
a part of Europe and so much a part of America. I had a chance to
discuss this just Monday when the new Ambassador came to the White
House to present his credentials. And I welcome you, sir, and am
just delighted you're here representing your country.
At Karl Marx University, before the very statue of Marx
himself, I met students, teachers and entrepreneurs who are making a
bold break with the past. And in their bright faces I saw a burning
idealism and a determination to escape the dead hand of ideology
forever. And I pledged my strong support to this process of
democratic change in Hungary. I said I would ask Congress to
authorize $25 million and to establish a Hungarian-American
enterprise fund; $5 million to open an environmental center for
Central and Eastern Europe in Budapest; and another $6 million for a
wide range of cultural and exchange programs.
I submitted these proposals to Congress in early
September. We're working vigorously to ensure congressional action
to make an American investment in Hungary's future. And I also
promise to stimulate American business investment in Hungary by
extending the business insurance of the Overseas Private Investment
Corporation to Hungary.
Ambassador Fred Zeder, the President and the CEO of OPIC,
led a delegation to Hungary just two weeks ago to plan for operations
to begin once the corporation receives the enabling legislation from
the Senate. And last month, Secretary Bob Mosbacher led a major
govermental and private investment mission to Hungary, encouraging
steps toward new ventures.
Hungary's already starting to enjoy tangible results of
our commitment to support reform. Just in September, an American
corporation purchased 100 percent of a Hungarian trading firm, the
first such total acquisition in Eastern European history. And this
is just one example of many new American ventures within Hungary.
I also said that the Peace Corps will make its first
European mission to Hungary to teach English in every county of that
nation. Peace Corps Director Paul Coverdell recently led a
delegation to Hungary to plan this mission.
Bill Reilly, the EPA Director, and Bruce Gelb, next to
MORE
- 2 -
him, our USIA Director, have also led missions to Hungary to develop
and implement our environmental and cultural exchange programs.
In Budapest, I also said that as soon as the Hungarian
Parliament passed emigration legislation then under consideration
that I would notify our Congress that Hungary meets all the
emigration criteria under U.S. law. That would qualify Hungary for
Most Favored Nation treatment. And I am pleased to say that on
September 26th Hungary fulfilled its part of the bargain. And I'm
here today to fulfill our part of the bargain. (Applause.)
Before me are three documents -- one advising the
Secretary of State that I've determined that Hungary meets our
emigration criteria; the others informs each of the Houses of
Congress. And with my signature, these documents will grant Hungary
the most liberal trade treatment possible under U.S. law, making it
the first country subject to the Jackson-Vanik Amendment ever to be
granted a waiver from annual reviews of its emigration practices.
(Applause.) But you see, we feel that today's action represents
something far greater than a mere trade agreement. It signals the
recognition that a quiet revolution is taking place in thousands of
shops, farms and factories. It signals the rebirth of Hungary as an
entrepreneurial nation.
Our measure will, of course, grant these new Hungarian
entrepreneurs access to the largest single market in the world. But
the peoples of America and Hungary are exchanging more than blue
jeans and fine wines. We're exchanging ideas and ideals that can
only be the shared province of free peoples. The documents I'm about
to sign refer to the Republic of Hungary.
Just three days ago, on the anniversary of the 1956
revolution, Hungary scrapped the title, "Peoples Republic,' that
symbol of the one-party system imposed on Hungary after World War II.
And it is this new Hungarian Republic that has adopted a bill of
rights inspired by our own Constitution to guarantee freedom of the
press, assembly, and religion.
And Americans watch these acts of national courage with
wonder, admiration, and something more: A willingness to help. So
we're not passive observers. We are active supporters of reform.
Let no one doubt our commitment to freedom's success in Eastern
Europe. For we know that we are privileged to participate in a very
special moment in human history. We're witnessing an unprecedented
transformation of communist nations into pluralistic democracies with
market economies.
In Budapest, Radio Free Europe is broadcasting from its
first bureau in Eastern Europe. It's a remarkable thing. And in
Warsaw, a dissident who once languished in prison now presides over
their Parliament. Incredible. In East Germany, hundreds of
thousands of courageous men and women march arm-in-arm through the
streets of Leipzig to make a peaceful stand for freedom. Inspiring.
It is in these amazing scenes that we see a portrait of
the indomitable spirit of man. Throughout Eastern Europe and in the
Soviet Union itself we see evidence of the ascendancy of freedom. We
see signs of a new Europe which no. one need fear, a Europe whole and
free. And as we witness this historic tide of freedom, riding at the
crest is one nation, the People of the Republic of Hungary. And to
them I say we admire you, we support you and we welcome you as
friends of freedom.
Thank you. And now it is my pleasure to sign those
historic documents granting Hungary continued Most Favored Nation
treatment. (Applause.)
END
10:12 A.M. EDT
CLOSE HOLD
Document No. 085045SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
10/25/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 10/25/89 5:00 PM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: HUNGARY MOST FAVORED NATION EVENT
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BATES N/C
UNTERMEYER
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122,
x2930, no later than 5:00 PM TODAY, Wednesday, October 25, with
a copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
CLOSE HOLD
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
Davis/Martin
Oct. 25, 1989
Title: Hungary
1989 OCT 25 PM 3. 27
Draft: Two
PRESIDENTIAL PROCLAMATION: HUNGARY, ROSE GARDEN
Thursday, Oct. 26, 1989, 10 a.m.
( (Acknowledgements to come -- Secretary Baker, Lawrence
Eagleburger, Congressman Lantos, Hungarian ambassador, etc.) )
( (Let me begin with a small confession. When I visited
Hungary in July, I made a reference to that famous brainteaser
from Budapest, the Rubik's Cube, 11 only I called it a Rubik's
Cone. 11 But I don't feel bad about it.\\ After all, I wound up
puzzling more people than Mister Rubik himself. ))
It was my privilege to return to Hungary last summer, and
become the first American President to visit a nation that is so
much a part of Europe, and so much a part of America.
At Karl Marx University, before the very statute of Marx
himself, I met students, teachers and entrepreneurs who are
making a bold break with the past. And in their bright faces I
saw a burning idealism, a determination to escape the dead hand
of ideology, forever.
I promised to support their hopes, by supporting the process
of economic and democratic reform in Hungary. I promised to ask
Congress to authorize $25 million to establish an Hungarian-
American Enterprise Fund, and I submitted this proposal to
Congress in September.
2
I promised a $5 million fund to open an environmental center
for Central and Eastern Europe in Budapest, so that East and West
can cooperate on our shared natural heritage; and I also
submitted this proposal to Congress in September.
I promised to stimulate American business investment in
Hungary by extending the business insurance of the Overseas
Investment Corporation to Hungary. Ambassador Fred Zeder,
President and CEO of OPIC, led a delegation to Hungary two weeks
ago to plan for operations to begin once the corporation receives
enabling legislation from the Senate.
I promised $6 million for cultural and educational exchange
programs. This program is also ready for action by Congress.
I promised to bring Radio Free Europe to Hungary. And on
September 9, Radio Free Europe opened its first station in
Eastern Europe in Budapest.
I also promised to instruct the Peace Corps to make its
first European mission to Hungary, to teach English in every
county of that nation. Peace Corps Director Paul Coverdall
recently led a delegation to Hungary to plan this mission. I
have also dispatched Commerce Secretary Bob Mosbacher, EPA
Director William Reilly, USIA Director Bruce Gelb and others to
Hungary to discover ways our government can support reform.
But the promises I made to the Hungarian people really
reflect one overarching commitment: America is ready to invest in
a partnership with the world's newest republic; a partnership to
build a common future of freedom and prosperity.
3
Nowhere is this commitment more evident than in today's
ceremony. For today we mark the fulfillment of yet another
pledge I made to the people of Hungary. I promised that as soon
as the Hungarian Parliament liberalized its emigration laws, I
would notify Congress that Hungary meets all the requirements of
U.S. law to qualify for permanent Most Favored Nation treatment.
On September 26, Hungary fulfilled its part of the bargain.
I am here to fulfill ours. In a few moments, I will sign two
documents -- advising the Secretary of State and Congress that
Hungary meets our emigration criteria. With my signature, these
documents will grant Hungary the most liberal trade treatment
under U.S. law, and make it the first country ever to be granted
a waiver from annual reviews of its emigration practices.
Hungary is already starting to enjoy tangible results of our
commitment to support reform. In September, an American
corporation purchased 100 percent of an Hungarian trading firm ---
the first such total acquisition in Eastern European history.
( (Another example to come.) )
But today's action represents something far greater than a
mere trade agreement. It signals the recognition that a quiet
revolution is taking place in thousands of shops, farms and
factories. It signals the rebirth of Hungary as an
entrepreneurial nation.
Our measure will, of course, grant these new Hungarian
entrepreneurs access to the largest single market in the world.
But the peoples of America and Hungary are exchanging more than
4
just blue jeans and fine wine. We are exchanging ideas and
ideals that can only be the shared province of free peoples.
Just last week, on the anniversary of the 1956 Revolution,
Hungary scrapped the title "People's Republic" -- that epitaph of
democracy common to one-party states -- and proclaimed itself to
be a true republic. It is this new Hungarian Republic that has
adopted a Bill of Rights to guarantee freedom of the press,
assembly and religion. Americans watch these acts of national
courage with wonder and admiration and something more -- a
willingness to help.
Just as we are helping the people of Hungary today, so we
are determined to assist wherever people aspire to greater
freedom. In Poland, the new Solidarity-led government has put
forward a bold program of economic reform. They have asked for
our support, and they will get it -- starting with this
Administration's commitment to provide a grant worth $200 million
as our contribution to the Polish request for a $1 billion
stabilization grant from the West. ((And on Monday, I will
announce a U.S. mission to Warsaw of officials, businessmen and
economic experts to determine how this fund can best serve the
cause of reform. ))
We are not passive observers, but active supports of reform.
For we know that we are privileged to participate in a very
special moment in human history. Never before have repressive,
centralized, regimes attempted the transformation into
pluralistic democracies with market economies. In Budapest, a
5
boy waves the flag of his nation -- with the hammer and sickle
removed. Remarkable. In Warsaw, a dissident who once languished
in a dungeon now presides over Parliament. Incredible. In East
Germany, thousands of courageous men and women march arm-in-arm
through the streets of Leipzig to make a peaceful stand for
freedom. Inspiring. It is in these amazing scenes that we see a
portrait of the indomitable spirit of Man.
Throughout Eastern Europe and in the Soviet Union itself, we
see evidence of the ascendancy of freedom. We see signs of a new
Europe, which no one need fear, a Europe whole and free. And as
we witness this historic tide of freedom, riding at the crest is
one nation -- the people of Republic of Hungary. To them I say:
We admire you. We support you. And we welcome you as friends of
freedom.
Thank you, and now it will be my pleasure to sign these two
documents to grant Hungary Most Favored Nation status.
1
Davis/Martin
Oct. 26, 1989
Title: Hungary
Draft: Four
8:55 a.m.
PRESIDENTIAL PROCLAMATION: HUNGARY, ROSE GARDEN
Thursday, Oct. 26, 1989, 10 a.m.
Secretary Baker, Secretary Mosbacher, Secertary Watkins,
Secretary Derwinski, Administrator Reilly, Ambassador Hills,
Ambassador Varkonyi ((VAR-cone-nyee)), Director Gelb, Congressman
Lantos, welcome to the Rose Garden.
((Let me begin with a small confession. When I visited
Hungary in July, I made a reference to that famous brainteaser
from Budapest, the Rubik's Cube, only I called it a Rubik's
Cone. But I don't feel bad about it.\\ After all, I wound up
puzzling more people than Mister Rubik himself.) )
It was my privilege to return to Hungary last summer, and
become the first American President to visit a nation that is so
much a part of Europe, and so much a part of America.
At Karl Marx University, before the very statute of Marx
himself, I met students, teachers and entrepreneurs who are
making a bold break with the past. And in their bright faces I
saw a burning idealism, a determination to escape the dead hand
of ideology, forever.
I pledged my strong support to this process of democratic
change in Hungary. I said I would ask Congress to authorize $25
million to establish an Hungarian-American Enterprise Fund, $5
2
million to open an environmental center for Central and Eastern
Europe in Budapest, and another $6 million for a wide range of
cultural and exchange programs.
I submitted all of these
proposals to Congress in early September. We are working
vigorously to ensure Congressional action, to make an American
investment in Hungary's future.
I also promised to stimulate American business investment in
Hungary by extending the business insurance of the Overseas
Private Investment Corporation to Hungary. Ambassador Fred
Zeder, President and CEO of OPIC, led a delegation to Hungary two
weeks ago to plan for operations to begin once the corporation
receives enabling legislation from the Senate. Last month,
Commerce Secretary Bob Mosbacher led a major governmental and
private investment mission to Hungary, encouraging steps toward
new ventures.
Hungary is already starting to enjoy tangible results of our
commitment to support reform. Just in September, an American
corporation purchased 100 percent of an Hungarian trading firm --
the first such total acquisition in Eastern European history.
This is just one example of many new American ventures within
Hungary.
I also said that the Peace Corps will make its first
European mission to Hungary, to teach English in every county of
that nation. Peace Corps Director Paul Coverdall recently led a
delegation to Hungary to plan this mission. EPA Director William
Reilly and USIA Director Bruce Gelb have also led missions to
3
Hungary to develop and implement our environmental and cultural
exchange programs.
In Budapest, I also said that as soon as the Hungarian
Parliament passed emigration legislation then under
consideration, I would notify our Congress that Hungary meets all
the emigration criteria under U.S. law. This would qualify
Hungary for Most Favored Nation treatment. I am pleased to say
that on September 26, that Hungary fulfilled its part of the
bargain. I am here today to fulfill ours.
Before me are three documents, one advising the Secretary of
State that I have determined that Hungary meets our emigration
criteria. The other informs each House of Congress. With my
signature, these documents will grant Hungary the most liberal
trade treatment possible under U.S. law, making it the first
country subject to the Jackson-Vanik amendment ever to be granted
a waiver from annual reviews of its emigration practices.
But today's action represents something far greater than a
mere trade agreement. It signals the recognition that a quiet
revolution is taking place in thousands of shops, farms and
factories. It signals the rebirth of Hungary as an
entrepreneurial nation.
Our measure will, of course, grant these new Hungarian
entrepreneurs access to the largest single market in the world.
But the peoples of America and Hungary are exchanging more than
just blue jeans and fine wine. We are exchanging ideas and
ideals that can only be the shared province of free peoples.
4
The documents I'm about to sign refer to the "Republic of
Hungary." Just three days ago, on the anniversary of the 1956
Revolution, Hungary scrapped the title "People's Republic" --
that symbol of the one-party system imposed on Hungary after
World War Two. It is this new Hungarian Republic that has
adopted a Bill of Rights, inspired by our own Constitution, to
guarantee freedom of the press, assembly and religion. Americans
watch these acts of national courage with wonder, admiration and
something more -- a willingness to help.
years
So we are not passive observers, but active supports of
reform. Let no one doubt our commitment to freedom's success in
Eastern Europe -- for we know that we are privileged to
participate in a very special moment in human history. We are
witnessing an unprecedented transformation of Communist nations
into pluralistic democracies with market economies. In Budapest,
Radio Free Europe is broadcasting from its first bureau in
Eastern Europe. Remarkable. In Warsaw, a dissident who once
languished in prison now presides over Parliament. Incredible.
In East Germany, hundreds of thousands of courageous men and
women march arm-in-arm through the streets of Leipzig to make a
peaceful stand for freedom. Inspiring. It is in these amazing
scenes that we see a portrait of the indomitable spirit of Man.
Throughout Eastern Europe and in the Soviet Union itself, we
see evidence of the ascendancy of freedom. We see signs of a new
Europe, which no one need fear, a Europe whole and free. And as
we witness this historic tide of freedom, riding at the crest is
to
5
one nation -- the people of Republic of Hungary. To them I say:
We admire you. We support you. And we welcome you as friends of
freedom.
Thank you, and now it will be my pleasure to sign these
nistoric
ins
treatment
his,
documents to grant Hungary Most Favored Nation status.
"Econtining
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Oct. 25, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
Through:
CHRISS WINSTON
From:
MARK DAVIS MD
Subject:
Signing ceremony/Hungary trade status
SUMMARY: You will sign two documents tomorrow at 10 a.m. in the
Rose Garden, informing the Secretary of State and Congress that
Hungary has met the requirements of U.S. law, qualifying for
permanent Most Favored Nation treatment. Your brief remarks,
which will precede the signing ceremony, will be on cards.
DISCUSSION: In Budapest you offered many economic, cultural and
environmental proposals to support the process of reform. This
speech assesses how much progress has been made on these
proposals since your visit. It also gives a teaser for Monday's
announcement for an economic mission to Poland, and offers moral
support for the brave, but peaceful, protesters of East Germany.
Davis/Martin
Oct. 25, 1989
Title: Hungary
Draft: Three
PRESIDENTIAL PROCLAMATION: HUNGARY, ROSE GARDEN
Thursday, Oct. 26, 1989, 10 a.m.
Secretary Baker, Secretary Mosbacher, Ambassador Hills;
Ambassador Varkonyi ((VAR-cone-nyee)), Director Gelb, Congressman
Lantos, welcome to the Rose Garden.
((Let me begin with a small confession. When I visited
Hungary in July, I made a reference to that famous brainteaser
from Budapest, the Rubik's Cube,\\ only I called it a Rubik's
Cone. But I don't feel bad about it.\\ After all, I wound up
puzzling more people than Mister Rubik himself. ))
It was my privilege to return to Hungary last summer, and
become the first American President to visit a nation that is so
much a part of Europe, and so much a part of America.
At Karl Marx University, before the very statute of Marx
himself, I met students, teachers and entrepreneurs who are
making a bold break with the past. And in their bright faces I
saw a burning idealism, a determination to escape the dead hand
of ideology, forever.
I pledged my strong support to this process of democratic
change in Hungary. I said I would ask Congress to authorize $25
million to establish an Hungarian-American Enterprise Fund, $5
million to open an environmental center for Central and Eastern
2
Europe in Budapest, and another $6 million for a wide range of
cultural and exchange programs. I submitted all of these
proposals to Congress in early September. We are working
vigorously to ensure Congressional action, to make an American
investment in Hungary's future.
I also promised to stimulate American business investment in
Hungary by extending the business insurance of the Overseas
Private Investment Corporation to Hungary. Ambassador Fred
Zeder, President and CEO of OPIC, led a delegation to Hungary two
weeks ago to plan for operations to begin once the corporation
receives enabling legislation from the Senate. Last month,
Commerce Secretary Bob Mosbacher led a major governmental and
private investment mission to Hungary, encouraging steps toward
new ventures.
Hungary is already starting to enjoy tangible results of our
commitment to support reform. Just in September, an American
corporation purchased 100 percent of an Hungarian trading firm --
the first such total acquisition in Eastern European history.
This is just one example of many new American ventures within
Hungary.
I also said that the Peace Corps will make its first
European mission to Hungary, to teach English in every county of
that nation. Peace Corps Director Paul Coverdall recently led a
delegation to Hungary to plan this mission. EPA Director William
Reilly and USIA Director Bruce Gelb have also led missions to
3
Hungary to develop and implement our environmental and cultural
exchange programs.
In Budapest, I also said that as soon as the Hungarian
Parliament passed emigration legislation then under
consideration, I would notify our Congress that Hungary meets all
the emigration criteria under U.S. law. This would qualify
Hungary for Most Favored Nation treatment. I am pleased to say
that on September 26, that Hungary fulfilled its part of the
bargain. I am here today to fulfill ours.
3
search
Before me are two documents, one advising the Secretary of
State that I have determined that Hungary meets our emigration
criteria. The other informs Congress. With my signature, these
documents will grant Hungary the most liberal trade treatment
possible under U.S. law, making it the first East European
country ever to be granted a waiver from annual reviews of its
emigration practices.
But today's action represents something far greater than a
mere trade agreement. It signals the recognition that a quiet
revolution is taking place in thousands of shops, farms and
factories. It signals the rebirth of Hungary as an
entrepreneurial nation.
Our measure will, of course, grant these new Hungarian
entrepreneurs access to the largest single market in the world.
But the peoples of America and Hungary are exchanging more than
just blue jeans and fine wine. We are exchanging ideas and
ideals that can only be the shared province of free peoples.
4
The documents I'm about to sign refer to the "Republic of
Hungary." Just three days ago, on the anniversary of the 1956
Revolution, Hungary scrapped the title "People's Republic" --
that symbol of the one-party system imposed on Hungary after
World War Two. It is the new Hungarian Republic that has adopted
a Bill of Rights to guarantee freedom of the press, assembly and
INSPIRED BYOUR own Const.
religion. Americans watch these acts of national courage with
wonder and admiration and something more -- a willingness to
help.
Just as we are helping the people of Hungary today, so we
are determined to assist wherever people aspire to greater
BCACKWELL cut
freedom. In Poland, the new Solidarity-led government has put
forward a bold program of economic reform. In response, I have
asked the Congress to approve a $200 million grant, which will be
the U.S. contribution to the $1 billion the Poles have requested
from the West.
We are not passive observers, but active supports of reform.
Let no one doubt our commitment to freedom's success in Eastern
Europe -- for we know that we are privileged to participate in a
very special moment in human history. We are witnessing an
unprecedented transformation of Communist nations into
pluralistic democracies with market economies. In Budapest,
Radio Free Europe is broadcasting from its first bureau in
Eastern Europe. Remarkable. In Warsaw, a dissident who once
languished in a prison now presides over Parliament. Incredible.
In East Germany, hundreds of thousands of courageous men and
5
women march arm-in-arm through the streets of Leipzig to make a
peaceful stand for freedom. Inspiring. It is in these amazing
scenes that we see a portrait of the indomitable spirit of Man.
Throughout Eastern Europe and in the Soviet Union itself, we
see evidence of the ascendancy of freedom. We see signs of a new
Europe, which no one need fear, a Europe whole and free. And as
we witness this historic tide of freedom, riding at the crest is
one nation -- the people of Republic of Hungary. To them I say:
We admire you. We support you. And we welcome you as friends of
freedom.
Thank you, and now it will be my pleasure to sign these two
historic documents granting Hungary continuing Most Favored
Nation treatment.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Oct. 25, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
Through:
CHRISS WINSTON cu
From:
MARK DAVIS MD
Subject:
Signing ceremony/Hungary trade status
SUMMARY: You will sign two documents tomorrow at 10 a.m. in the
Rose Garden, informing the Secretary of State and Congress that
Hungary has met the requirements of U.S. law, qualifying for
permanent Most Favored Nation treatment. Your brief remarks,
which will precede the signing ceremony, will be on cards.
DISCUSSION: In Budapest you offered many economic, cultural and
environmental proposals to support the process of reform. This
speech assesses how much progress has been made on these
proposals since your visit. It also gives a teaser for Monday's
announcement for an economic mission to Poland, and offers moral
support for the brave, but peaceful, protesters of East Germany.
It's a pleasure to have
THE WHITE HOUSE
so many
members of
Sen. Clarborne Pell
congress WASHINGTON here today
Sen. Darlel moynihan
Rep. Dan Rostenkowski
Rep. + Mrs. Tom Lantos
Rep. San Gbbons
Rep. William Bromfield
Rep. Benjamin Gilman
Rep. Christopher Cox
Edward Teller
Rep. Newt Gingrich
Rep Bill Frenzel
Davis/Martin
Oct. 25, 1989
Title: Hungary
Draft: Three
PRESIDENTIAL PROCLAMATION: HUNGARY, ROSE GARDEN
Thursday, Oct. 26, 1989, 10 a.m.
Secretary Baker, Secretary Mosbacher, Ambassador Hills,
Ambassador Varkonyi ( (VAR-cone-nyee) ) Director Gelb, Congressmant Congressman Mrs.
Edward Teller
Lantos, welcome to the Rose Garden.
Lantos
( (Let me begin with a small confession. When I visited
Hungary in July, I made a reference to that famous brainteaser
from Budapest, the Rubik's Cube, 11 only I called it a Rubik's
Cone. But I don't feel bad about it. After all, I wound up
puzzling more people than Mister Rubik himself. ))
It was my privilege to return to Hungary last summer, and
become the first American President to visit a nation that is so
much a part of Europe, and so much a part of America.
At Karl Marx University, before the very statute of Marx
himself, I met students, teachers and entrepreneurs who are
making a bold break with the past. And in their bright faces I
saw a burning idealism, a determination to escape the dead hand
of ideology, forever.
I pledged my strong support to this process of democratic
change in Hungary. I said I would ask Congress to authorize $25
million to establish an Hungarian-American Enterprise Fund, $5
million to open an environmental center for Central and Eastern
2
Europe in Budapest, and another $6 million for a wide range of
cultural and exchange programs. I submitted all of these
proposals to Congress in early September. We are working
vigorously to ensure Congressional action, to make an American
investment in Hungary's future.
I also promised to stimulate American business investment in
Hungary by extending the business insurance of the Overseas
Private Investment Corporation to Hungary. Ambassador Fred
Zeder, President and CEO of OPIC, led a delegation to Hungary two
weeks ago to plan for operations to begin once the corporation
receives enabling legislation from the Senate. Last month,
Commerce Secretary Bob Mosbacher led a major governmental and
private investment mission to Hungary, encouraging steps toward
new ventures.
Hungary is already starting to enjoy tangible results of our
commitment to support reform. Just in September, an American
corporation purchased 100 percent of an Hungarian trading firm --
the first such total acquisition in Eastern European history.
This is just one example of many new American ventures within
Hungary.
I also said that the Peace Corps will make its first
European mission to Hungary, to teach English in every county of
that nation. Peace Corps Director Paul Coverdall recently led a
delegation to Hungary to plan this mission. EPA Director William
Reilly and USIA Director Bruce Gelb have also led missions to
3
Hungary to develop and implement our environmental and cultural
exchange programs.
In Budapest, I also said that as soon as the Hungarian
Parliament passed emigration legislation then under
consideration, I would notify our Congress that Hungary meets all
the emigration criteria under U.S. law. This would qualify
Hungary for Most Favored Nation treatment. I am pleased to say
that on September 26, that Hungary fulfilled its part of the
bargain. I am here today to fulfill ours.
Before me are two documents, one advising the Secretary of
State that I have determined that Hungary meets our emigration
criteria. The other informs Congress. With my signature, these
documents will grant Hungary the most liberal trade treatment
possible under U.S. law, making it the first East European
country ever to be granted a waiver from annual reviews of its
emigration practices.
But today's action represents something far greater than a
mere trade agreement. It signals the recognition that a quiet
revolution is taking place in thousands of shops, farms and
factories. It signals the rebirth of Hungary as an
entrepreneurial nation.
Our measure will, of course, grant these new Hungarian
entrepreneurs access to the largest single market in the world.
But the peoples of America and Hungary are exchanging more than
just blue jeans and fine wine. We are exchanging ideas and
ideals that can only be the shared province of free peoples.
4
The documents I'm about to sign refer to the "Republic of
Hungary." Just three days ago, on the anniversary of the 1956
Revolution, Hungary scrapped the title "People's Republic" --
that symbol of the one-party system imposed on Hungary after
World War Two. It is the new Hungarian Republic that has adopted
a Bill of Rights to guarantee freedom of the press, assembly and
religion. Americans watch these acts of national courage with
wonder and admiration and something more -- a willingness to
help.
Just as we are helping the people of Hungary today, so we
are determined to assist wherever people aspire to greater
freedom. In Poland, the new Solidarity-led government has put
forward a bold program of economic reform. In response, I have
asked the Congress to approve a $200 million grant, which will be
the U.S. contribution to the $1 billion the Poles have requested
from the West.
We are not passive observers, but active supports of reform.
Let no one doubt our commitment to freedom's success in Eastern
Europe -- for we know that we are privileged to participate in a
very special moment in human history. We are witnessing an
unprecedented transformation of Communist nations into
pluralistic democracies with market economies. In Budapest,
Radio Free Europe is broadcasting from its first bureau in
Eastern Europe. Remarkable. In Warsaw, a dissident who once
languished in a prison now presides over Parliament. Incredible.
In East Germany, hundreds of thousands of courageous men and
5
women march arm-in-arm through the streets of Leipzig to make a
peaceful stand for freedom. Inspiring. It is in these amazing
scenes that we see a portrait of the indomitable spirit of Man.
Throughout Eastern Europe and in the Soviet Union itself, we
see evidence of the ascendancy of freedom. We see signs of a new
Europe, which no one need fear, a Europe whole and free. And as
we witness this historic tide of freedom, riding at the crest is
one nation -- the people of Republic of Hungary. To them I say:
We admire you. We support you. And we welcome you as friends of
freedom.
Thank you, and now it will be my pleasure to sign these two
historic documents granting Hungary continuing Most Favored
Nation treatment.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 25, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
STEPHEN G. RADEMAKER SR
ASSOCIATE COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks--Hungary Most Favored Nation
Event
Pursuant to James Cicconi's request, Counsel's Office has
reviewed the above-referenced matter. On page 3, second
paragraph, the third sentence, we have two concerns.
First, unless the documents to be signed by the President grant
Hungary GSP treatment as well as MFN, it is not correct to assert
that *these documents will grant Hungary the most liberal trade
treatment under U.S. law." We have not seen the documents and do
not know whether GSP treatment is being extended, but if it is
not, the sentence should be revised to read "these documents will
grant Hungary liberalized trade treatment."
Second, to take account of the fact that not all countries are
subject to annual review of their emigration practices, the
remainder of the sentence should be revised to indicate that the
President's action makes Hungaryx" the first country subject to
the Jackson-Vanik amendment ever to be granted a waiver from
annual reviews of its emigration practices."
Subject to these comments, Counsel's Office has no objection to
the draft remarks.
CC: James W. Cicconi
to 67 100 68
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
CEREMONY CONFERRING UNQUALIFIED MOST FAVORED
NATION STATUS TO HUNGARY
DATE:
October 26, 1989
TIME:
10:00 a.m.
LOCATION:
Rose Garden
RD
THROUGH:
DAVID DEMAREST
ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT FOR
COMMUNICATIONS
FROM:
SICHAN
DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT
FOR PUBLIC LIAISON
I. PURPOSE:
To recognize Hungary's progress on democratization and
emigration policies, and to further publicize the
Administration's Eastern European policy.
II. BACKGROUND:
The Department of State recently determined that Hungary has
satisfied freedom of emigration criteria under Title IV
of the Trade Act of 1974. In recognition of
Hungary's progress, the NSC and State Department have
recommended that the President sign a Determination to this
effect, enabling Hungary to receive MFN treatment without
requiring an annual waiver of the Jackson-Vanik amendment.
In developing its emigration legislation, Hungary was very
responsive to U.S. concerns and suggestions.
This ceremony presents a forum to praise Hungary's reform
efforts and strengthen Congressional support for the
Administration's Eastern European policy in general.
III. PARTICIPANTS:
The President
Standing on steps with the President:
Secretary Baker
Secretary Mosbacher
Ambassador Hills
Hungarian Ambassador to the U.S.- Peter Varkonyi
(VAR-cone-nyee)
Seated in front row:
Secretary Watkins
Secretary Derwinski
Administrator Reilly
Members of Congress
Prominent Hungarian Americans
Administration representatives from various departments
IV. PRESS PLAN:
Open press.
V. SEQUENCE OF EVENTS:
-- The President enters Rose Garden from Oval Office.
-- The President makes brief remarks.
-- The President signs the Determination.
-- The President departs.
Remarks provided by Speechwriters.
CLOSE HOLD
085045SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM 8578
10/25/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 10/25/89 5:00 PM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: HUNGARY MOST FAVORED NATION EVENT
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BATES
UNTERMEYER
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122,
x2930, no later than 5:00 PM TODAY, Wednesday, October 25, with
a copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
CLOSE HOLD
October 25, 1989
TO: CHRISS WINSTON
The NSC concurs with the attached changes indicated.
Bo
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
Brent Scowcroft
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome. When I visited Budapest in July, I
spoke at Karl Marx University before a large group of students,
faculty, and entrepreneurs. It was an ironic setting, but a
fitting one, for a country embarked on an unprecedented process of
transforming a centrally controlled economic and political system
into one of free markets and democratic pluralism.
In that speech, I pledged my strong support to this process of
democratic change in Hungary. I said I would ask Congress to
authorize $25 million to establish an Hungarian-American
Enterprise Fund, $5 million to open an environmental center for
central and eastern Europe in Budapest, and another $6 million for
a wide range of cultural and exchange programs. I submitted all
these proposals to Congress in early September and am pleased that
they woill soon become reality -- America's investment in
Hungary's future.
22 :pd 50125 68
Davis/Martin
Oct. 25, 1989
Title: Hungary
1989 OCT 25 FM 3. 27
Draft: Two
e)
PRESIDENTIAL PROCLAMATION:
HUNGARY, ROSE GARDEN
n
Thursday, Oct. 26, 1989, 10 a.m.
}
BUL
( (Acknowledgements Am! to come -- Secretary Baker, Lawrence
Eagleburger, Congressman Lantos, Hungarian ambassador, etc.) )
eg.
N (Let me begin with a small confession. When I visited
in'
Hungary in July, I made a reference to that famous brainteaser
from Budapest, the Rubik's Cube, 11 only I called it a Rubik's
Cone. 11 But I don't feel bad about it. After all, I wound up
puzzling more peòple than Mister Rubik himself. n
It was my privilege to return to Hungary last summer, and
become the first American President to visit a nation that is so
much a part of Europe, and so much a part of America.
At Karl Marx University, before the very statute of Marx
himself, I met students, teachers and entrepreneurs who are
making a bold break with the past. And in their bright faces I
saw a burning idealism, a determination to escape the dead hand
of ideology, forever.
I promised to support their hopes, by supporting the process
of economic and democratic reform in Hungary. I promised to ask
Congress to authorize $25 million to establish an Hungarian-
American Enterprise Fund, and I submitted this proposal to
Congress in September.
2
I promised a $5 million fund to open an environmental center
for Central and Eastern Europe in Budapest, so that East and West
can cooperate on our shared natural heritage; and I also
submitted this proposal to Congress in September
I promised to stimulate American business investment in
Private
Hungary by extending the business insurance of the Overseas
1
Investment Corporation to Hungary. Ambassador Fred Zeder,
President and CEO of OPIC, led a delegation to Hungary two weeks
ago to plan for operations to begin once the corporation receives
enabling legislation from the Senate Last month, Commerce
Secretary Bob Mosbacher led a major governmental
I promised $6 million for cultural and educational exchange
and private investment mission to Hungary, forther
programs. This program is also ready for action by Congress.
INSERT
& encouraging concrete styps toward new And ventures and
I promised to bring Radio Free Europe to Hungary on
FROM
office
September 9, Radio Free Europe opened its first station in
investment.
PAGE
3
Eastern Europe in Budapest.
said that
will
I also promised to instruct the Peace Corps to make its
first European mission to Hungary, to teach English in every
county of that nation. Peace Corps Director Paul Coverdall
recently led a delegation to Hungary to plan this mission. I
GH
have also dispatched Commerce Secretary Bob Mosbacher, EPA
and
have also led
Director William Reilly USIA Director Bruce Gelb and others new to
Hungary to discover ways our government can support
missions to Hungary to develop and imp lement our reform. enviromental
and cultural exchange programs.
But the promises I made to the Hungarian people really
reflect one everarching commitment: America is ready to invest in
a partnership with the world's newest republic; a partnership to
build a common future of freedom and prosperity
In Budapest, I also said that as soon as Hungary' S parliament
passed emigration legislation then under consideration, I would
notify our Congress that Hungary meets all the emigration criteria
under U.S. law and therefore qualifies for continuing Most Favored
Nation treatment. I am pleased to say that on September 26 that
Hungary fulfilled its part of the bargain. I am here to fulfill
ours.
Before me are two documents, one advising the Secretary of State
that I have determined that Hungary meets our emigration criteria,
the other so informing the Congress of the United States. With my
signature, these documents grant Hungary the most liberal trade
treatment possible under U.S. law and make it the first East
European country ever to be granted a waiver from annual reviews
of its emigration practices. More than that, they point the way
to a new era in our relations, and to a new Hungary of economic
and political freedom
3
Nowhere is this commitment more evident than in today's
ceremony. For today we mark the fulfillment of yet another
pledge I made to the people of Hungary I promised that as soon
as the Hungarian Parliament liberalized its emigration laws, I
would notify Congress that Hungary meets all the requirements of
U.S. law to qualify for permanent Most Favored Nation treatment.
On September 26, Hungary fulfilled its part of É the bargain.
I am here to fulfill ours. In a few moments, I will sign two
documents -- advising the Secretary of State and Congress that
Hungary meets our emigration criteria. With my signature, these
documents will grant Hungary the most liberal trade treatment
under U.S. law, and make it the first country ever to be granted
a waiver from annual reviews of its emigration practices.
moveyez
Hungary is already starting to enjoy tangible results of our
X
commitment to support reform. In September, an American
corporation purchased 100 percent of an Hungarian trading firm --
the first such total acquisition in Eastern European history.
( (Another example to come.) )
But today's action represents something far greater than a
mere trade agreement. It signals the recognition that a quiet
revolution is taking place in thousands of shops, farms and
factories. It signals the rebirth of Hungary as an
entrepreneurial nation.
Our measure will, of course, grant these new Hungarian
entrepreneurs access to the largest single market in the world.
But the peoples of America and Hungary are exchanging more than
Let me also mention that the documents I am about to sign refer to
the "Republic of Hungary." Just three days ago, on the
anniversary of the 1956 Revolution, Hungary abandoned the title of
"People's Republic," that symbol of the one-party system imposed
on Hungary after World War II. In proclaiming itself a republic,
Hungary has also passed constitutional amendments, inspired by our
own Constitution and Bill of Rights, that guarantee freedoms of
the press, assembly, and religion and mark a further dramatic step
on Hungary's road to democracy.
We have watched these events unfold with wonder and admiration,
and we are inspired by the spread of freedom throughout Eastern
Europe. In Poland, the new Solidarity-led government has put
forward a bold program of economic reform and has called on us for
support. In response, I have asked the Congress to approve a $200
million grant, which will be the U.S. contribution to the $1
billion the Poles have requested from the West. Let no one doubt
our commitment to freedom's success in Eastern Europe.
4
just blue jeans and fine wine. We are exchanging ideas and
ideals that can only be the shared province of free peoples.
Just last week, on the anniversary of the 1956 Revolution,
DE
Hungary scrapped the title "People's Republic" -- that epitaph of
@
democracy common to one-party states -- and proclaimed itself to,
be a true republic. It is this new Hungarian Republic that has
adopted a Bill of Rights to guarantee freedom of the press,
the
assembly and religion. Americans watch these acts of national
courage with wonder and admiration and something more -- a
OF
willingness to help.
Just as we are helping the people of Hungary today, so we
are determined to assist wherever people aspire to greater
freedom. In Poland, the new Solidarity-led government has put
forward a bold program of economic reform. They have asked for
our support, and they will get it -- starting with this
Administration's commitment to provide a grant worth $200 million
as our contribution to the Polish request for a $1 billion
stabilization grant from the West. ((And on Monday, I will
announce a U.S. mission to Warsaw of officials, businessmen and
economic experts to determine how this fund can best serve the
cause of reform. ))
We are not passive observers, but active supports of reform.
For we know that we are privileged to participate in a very
special moment in human history. Never before have repressive,
centralized, regimes attempted the transformation into
pluralistic democracies with market economies. In Budapest, a
5
boy waves the flag of his nation -- with the hammer and sickle
removed. Remarkable. In Warsaw, a dissident who once languished
in a-dungsou prison now presides over Parliament. Incredible. In East
hundreds of
Germany, thousands of courageous men and women march arm-in-arm
^
Rt
through the streets of Leipzig to make a peaceful stand for
freedom. Inspiring. It is in these amazing scenes that we see a
portrait of the indomitable spirit of Man.
FYI
Throughout Eastern Europe and in the Soviet Union itself, we
see evidence of the ascendancy of freedom. We see signs of a new
Europe, which no one need fear, a Europe whole and free. And as
, we witness this historic tide of freedom, riding at the crest is
one nation the people of Republic of Hungary. To them I say:
We admire you- We support you. And we. welcome you as friends of
freedom.
Thank you, and now it will be my pleasure to sign these two
historic
ranting
continuing
treatment.
and
documents to grant Hungary Most Favored Nation status.
^
opsing
085045SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
10/26/89
----
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: HUNGARY MFN EVENT
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BATES
UNTERMEYER
WINSTON
CARD
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
The attached has been forwarded to the President.
RESPONSE:
89 OCT OCT 26 A9: 13
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
1989 OCT 25 PM
Oct. 25, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
Through:
CHRISS WINSTON
From:
MARK DAVIS MD
Subject:
Signing ceremony/Hungary trade status
SUMMARY: You will sign two documents tomorrow at 10 a.m. in the
Rose Garden, informing the Secretary of State and Congress that
Hungary has met the requirements of U.S. law, qualifying for
permanent Most Favored Nation treatment. Your brief remarks,
which will precede the signing ceremony, will be on cards.
DISCUSSION: In Budapest you offered many economic, cultural and
environmental proposals to support the process of reform. This
speech assesses how much progress has been made on these
proposals since your visit. It also gives a teaser for Monday's
announcement for an economic mission to Poland, and offers moral
support for the brave, but peaceful, protesters of East Germany.
Davis/Martin
Oct. 25, 1989
Title: Hungary
Draft: Three
PRESIDENTIAL PROCLAMATION: HUNGARY, ROSE GARDEN
Thursday, Oct. 26, 1989, 10 a.m.
Secretary Baker, Secretary Mosbacher, Ambassador Hills,
Ambassador Varkonyi ( (VAR-cone-nyee) ) Director Gelb, Congressman
Lantos, welcome to the Rose Garden.
( (Let me begin with a small confession. When I visited
Hungary in July, I made a reference to that famous brainteaser
from Budapest, the Rubik's Cube, only I called it a Rubik's
Cone. But I don't feel bad about it.\\ After all, I wound up
puzzling more people than Mister Rubik himself. ))
It was my privilege to return to Hungary last summer, and
become the first American President to visit a nation that is so
much a part of Europe, and so much a part of America.
At Karl Marx University, before the very statute of Marx
himself, I met students, teachers and entrepreneurs who are
making a bold break with the past. And in their bright faces I
saw a burning idealism, a determination to escape the dead hand
of ideology, forever.
I pledged my strong support to this process of democratic
change in Hungary. I said I would ask Congress to authorize $25
million to establish an Hungarian-American Enterprise Fund, $5
million to open an environmental center for Central and Eastern
2
Europe in Budapest, and another $6 million for a wide range of
cultural and exchange programs. I submitted all of these
proposals to Congress in early September. We are working
vigorously to ensure Congressional action, to make an American
investment in Hungary's future.
I also promised to stimulate American business investment in
Hungary by extending the business insurance of the Overseas
Private Investment Corporation to Hungary. Ambassador Fred
Zeder, President and CEO of OPIC, led a delegation to Hungary two
weeks ago to plan for operations to begin once the corporation
receives enabling legislation from the Senate. Last month,
Commerce Secretary Bob Mosbacher led a major governmental and
private investment mission to Hungary, encouraging steps toward
new ventures.
Hungary is already starting to enjoy tangible results of our
commitment to support reform. Just in September, an American
corporation purchased 100 percent of an Hungarian trading firm --
the first such total acquisition in Eastern European history.
This is just one example of many new American ventures within
Hungary.
I also said that the Peace Corps will make its first
European mission to Hungary, to teach English in every county of
that nation. Peace Corps Director Paul Coverdall recently led a
delegation to Hungary to plan this mission. EPA Director William
Reilly and USIA Director Bruce Gelb have also led missions to
3
Hungary to develop and implement our environmental and cultural
exchange programs.
In Budapest, I also said that as soon as the Hungarian
Parliament passed emigration legislation then under
consideration, I would notify our Congress that Hungary meets all
the emigration criteria under U.S. law. This would qualify
Hungary for Most Favored Nation treatment. I am pleased to say
that on September 26, that Hungary fulfilled its part of the
bargain. I am here today to fulfill ours.
Before me are two documents, one advising the Secretary of
State that I have determined that Hungary meets our emigration
criteria. The other informs Congress. With my signature, these
documents will grant Hungary the most liberal trade treatment
possible under U.S. law, making it the first East European
country ever to be granted a waiver from annual reviews of its
emigration practices.
But today's action represents something far greater than a
mere trade agreement. It signals the recognition that a quiet
revolution is taking place in thousands of shops, farms and
factories. It signals the rebirth of Hungary as an
entrepreneurial nation.
Our measure will, of course, grant these new Hungarian
entrepreneurs access to the largest single market in the world.
But the peoples of America and Hungary are exchanging more than
just blue jeans and fine wine. We are exchanging ideas and
ideals that can only be the shared province of free peoples.
4.
The documents I'm about to sign refer to the "Republic of
Hungary." Just three days ago, on the anniversary of the 1956
Revolution, Hungary scrapped the title "People's Republic" --
that symbol of the one-party system imposed on Hungary after
World War Two. It is the new Hungarian Republic that has adopted
a Bill of Rights to guarantee freedom of the press, assembly and
religion. Americans watch these acts of national courage with
wonder and admiration and something more -- a willingness to
help.
Just as we are helping the people of Hungary today, so we
are determined to assist wherever people aspire to greater
freedom. In Poland, the new Solidarity-led government has put
forward a bold program of economic reform. In response, I have
asked the Congress to approve a $200 million grant, which will be
the U.S. contribution to the $1 billion the Poles have requested
from the West.
We are not passive observers, but active supports of reform.
Let no one doubt our commitment to freedom's success in Eastern
Europe -- for we know that we are privileged to participate in a
very special moment in human history. We are witnessing an
unprecedented transformation of Communist nations into
pluralistic democracies with market economies. In Budapest,
Radio Free Europe is broadcasting from its first bureau in
Eastern Europe. Remarkable. In Warsaw, a dissident who once
languished in a prison now presides over Parliament. Incredible.
In East Germany, hundreds of thousands of courageous men and
5
women march arm-in-arm through the streets of Leipzig to make a
peaceful stand for freedom. Inspiring. It is in these amazing
scenes that we see a portrait of the indomitable spirit of Man.
Throughout Eastern Europe and in the Soviet Union itself, we
see evidence of the ascendancy of freedom. We see signs of a new
Europe, which no one need fear, a Europe whole and free. And as
we witness this historic tide of freedom, riding at the crest is
one nation -- the people of Republic of Hungary. To them I say:
We admire you. We support you. And we welcome you as friends of
freedom.
Thank you, and now it will be my pleasure to sign these two
historic documents granting Hungary continuing Most Favored
Nation treatment.
CLOSE HOLD
Document No. 085045SS
RECEIVED IN OMB
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
890EF25 DATE: P 40/25/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 10/25/89 5:00 PM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: HUNGARY MOST FAVORED NATION EVENT
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BATES
UNTERMEYER
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122,
x2930, no later than 5:00 PM TODAY, Wednesday, October 25, with
a copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
CLOSE HOLD
See comments
89 OCT 25 P5 : 47
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
Davis/Martin
Oct. 25, 1989
Title: Hungary
1989 OCT 25 FM 3. 27
Draft: Two
PRESIDENTIAL PROCLAMATION: HUNGARY, ROSE GARDEN
Thursday, Oct. 26, 1989, 10 a.m.
( (Acknowledgements to come -- Secretary Baker, Lawrence
Eagleburger, Congressman Lantos, Hungarian ambassador, etc. ) )
Holens
( (Let me begin with a small confession. When I visited
Hungary in July, I made a reference to that famous brainteaser
2
from Budapest, the Rubik's Cube, 11 only I called it a Rubik's
didn't
Cone. 11 But I don't feel bad about it. After all, I wound up
Huggota
get
puzzling more people than Mister Rubik himself.) )
It was my privilege to return to Hungary last summer, and
become the first American President to visit a nation that is so
much a part of Europe, and so much a part of America.
At Karl Marx University, before the very statute of Marx
himself, I met students, teachers and entrepreneurs who are
making a bold break with the past. And in their bright faces I
saw a burning idealism, a determination to escape the dead hand
adead
of ideology, forever.
I promised to support their hopes, by supporting the process
of economic and democratic reform in Hungary. I promised to ask
Congress to authorize $25 million to establish an Hungarian-
American Enterprise Fund, and I submitted this proposal to
Congress in September.
2
I promised a $5 million fund to open an environmental center
for Central and Eastern Europe in Budapest, so that East and West
can cooperate on our shared natural heritage; and I also
submitted this proposal to Congress in September.
I promised to stimulate American business investment in
Hungary by extending the business insurance of the Overseas
Investment Corporation to Hungary. Ambassador Fred Zeder,
President and CEO of OPIC, led a delegation to Hungary two weeks
ago to plan for operations to begin once the corporation receives
enabling legislation from the Senate.
I promised $6 million for cultural and educational exchange
programs. This program is also ready for action by Congress.
I promised to bring Radio Free Europe to Hungary. And on
September 9, Radio Free Europe opened its first station in
Eastern Europe in Budapest.
I also promised to instruct the Peace Corps to make its
first European mission to Hungary, to teach English in every
check
county of that nation. Peace Corps Director Paul Coverdall
spelling
recently led a delegation to Hungary to plan this mission. I
have also dispatched Commerce Secretary Bob Mosbacher, EPA
Director William Reilly, USIA Director Bruce Gelb and others to
Hungary to discover ways our government can support reform.
But the promises I made to the Hungarian people really
has a
reflect one overarching commitment: America is ready to invest in
partnership with the world's newest republic; a partnership to
build a common future of freedom and prosperity.
3
Nowhere is this commitment more evident than in today's
ceremony. For today we mark the fulfillment of yet another
pledge I made to the people of Hungary. I promised that as soon
as the Hungarian Parliament liberalized its emigration laws, I
would notify Congress that Hungary meets all the requirements of
U.S. law to qualify for permanent Most Favored Nation treatment.
On September 26, Hungary fulfilled its part of the bargain.
I am here to fulfill ours. In a few moments, I will sign two
documents -- advising the Secretary of State and Congress that
Hungary meets our emigration criteria. With my signature, these
documents will grant Hungary the most liberal trade treatment
under U.S. law, and make it the first country ever to be granted
a waiver from annual reviews of its emigration practices.
Hungary is already starting to enjoy tangible results of our
commitment to support reform. In September, an American
)
corporation purchased 100 percent of an Hungarian trading firm --
the first such total acquisition in Eastern European history.
( (Another example to come.))
But today's action represents something far greater than a
mere trade agreement. It signals the recognition that a quiet
revolution is taking place in thousands of shops, farms and
factories. It signals the rebirth of Hungary as an
entrepreneurial nation.
Our measure will, of course, grant these new Hungarian
entrepreneurs access to the largest single market in the world.
But the peoples of America and Hungary are exchanging more than
4
just blue jeans and fine wine. We are exchanging ideas and
ideals that can only be the shared province of free peoples.
Just last week, on the anniversary of the 1956 Revolution,
Hungary scrapped the title "People's Republic" -- that epitaph of
democracy common to one-party states -- and proclaimed itself to
be a true republic. It is this new Hungarian Republic that has
adopted a Bill of Rights to guarantee freedom of the press,
assembly and religion. Americans watch these acts of national
courage with wonder and admiration and something more -- a
willingness to help.
Just as we are helping the people of Hungary today, so we
are determined to assist wherever people aspire to greater
freedom. In Poland, the new Solidarity-led government has put
forward a bold program of economic reform. They have asked for
our support, and they will get it -- starting with this
Administration's commitment to provide a grant worth $200 million
as our contribution to the Polish request for a $1 billion
stabilization grant from the West. ((And on Monday, I will
announce a U.S. mission to Warsaw of officials, businessmen and
economic experts to determine how this fund can best serve the
cause of reform. ) )
We are not passive observers, but active supports of reform.
For we know that we are privileged to participate in a very
special moment in human history. Never before have repressive,
centralized, regimes attempted the transformation into
pluralistic democracies with market economies. In Budapest, a
5
boy waves the flag of his nation -- with the hammer and sickle
removed. Remarkable. In Warsaw, a dissident who once languished
in a dungeon now presides over Parliament. Incredible. In East
Germany, thousands of courageous men and women march arm-in-arm
through the streets of Leipzig to make a peaceful stand for
freedom. Inspiring. It is in these amazing scenes that we see a
portrait of the indomitable spirit of Man.
Holers
Throughout Eastern Europe and in the Soviet Union itself, we
see evidence of the ascendancy of freedom. We see signs of a new
?
Europe, which no one need fear, a Europe whole and free. And as
heat
to
we witness this historic tide of freedom, riding at the crest is
must
one nation -- the people of Republic of Hungary. To them I say:
suggests
We admire you. We support you. And we welcome you as friends of
unines
freedom.
what
Thank you, and now it will be my pleasure to sign these two
germany,
documents to grant Hungary Most Favored Nation status.
CLOSE HOLD
085045SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
10/25/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 10/25/89 5:00 PM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: HUNGARY MOST FAVORED NATION EVENT
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BATES
UNTERMEYER
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122,
x2930, no later than 5:00 PM TODAY, Wednesday, October 25, with
a copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
CLOSE HOLD
01
Ld
25
Contast
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
No
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
Davis/Martin
Oct. 25, 1989
Title: Hungary
Draft: Two
PRESIDENTIAL PROCLAMATION: HUNGARY, ROSE GARDEN
Thursday, Oct. 26, 1989, 10 a.m.
( (Acknowledgements to come -- Secretary Baker, Lawrence
Eagleburger, Congressman Lantos, Hungarian ambassador, etc. ) )
( (Let me begin with a small confession. When I visited
Hungary in July, I made a reference to that famous brainteaser
from Budapest, the Rubik's Cube, \\ only I called it a Rubik's
Cone. 11 But I don't feel bad about it. After all, I wound up
puzzling more people than Mister Rubik himself. ))
It was my privilege to return to Hungary last summer, and
become the first American President to visit a nation that is so
much a part of Europe, and so much a part of America.
At Karl Marx University, before the very statute of Marx
himself, I met students, teachers and entrepreneurs who are
making a bold break with the past. And in their bright faces I
saw a burning idealism, a determination to escape the dead hand
of ideology, forever.
I promised to support their hopes, by supporting the process
of economic and democratic reform in Hungary. I promised to ask
Congress to authorize $25 million to establish an Hungarian-
American Enterprise Fund, and I submitted this proposal to
Congress in September.
2
I promised a $5 million fund to open an environmental center
for Central and Eastern Europe in Budapest, so that East and West
can cooperate on our shared natural heritage; and I also
submitted this proposal to Congress in September.
I promised to stimulate American business investment in
Hungary by extending the business insurance of the Overseas
Investment Corporation to Hungary. Ambassador Fred Zeder,
President and CEO of OPIC, led a delegation to Hungary two weeks
ago to plan for operations to begin once the corporation receives
enabling legislation from the Senate.
I promised $6 million for cultural and educational exchange
programs. This program is also ready for action by Congress.
I promised to bring Radio Free Europe to Hungary. And on
September 9, Radio Free Europe opened its first station in
Eastern Europe in Budapest.
I also promised to instruct the Peace Corps to make its
first European mission to Hungary, to teach English in every
county of that nation. Peace Corps Director Paul Coverdall
recently led a delegation to Hungary to plan this mission. I
have also dispatched Commerce Secretary Bob Mosbacher, EPA
Director William Reilly, USIA Director Bruce Gelb and others to
Hungary to discover ways our government can support reform.
But the promises I made to the Hungarian people really
reflect one overarching commitment: America is ready to invest in
a partnership with the world's newest republic; a partnership to
build a common future of freedom and prosperity.
3
Nowhere is this commitment more evident than in today's
ceremony. For today we mark the fulfillment of yet another
pledge I made to the people of Hungary. I promised that as soon
as the Hungarian Parliament liberalized its emigration laws, I
would notify Congress that Hungary meets all the requirements of
U.S. law to qualify for permanent Most Favored Nation treatment.
On September 26, Hungary fulfilled its part of the bargain.
I am here to fulfill ours. In a few moments, I will sign two
documents -- advising the Secretary of State and Congress that
Hungary meets our emigration criteria. With my signature, these
documents will grant Hungary the most liberal trade treatment
under U.S. law, and make it the first country ever to be granted
a waiver from annual reviews of its emigration practices.
Hungary is already starting to enjoy tangible results of our
commitment to support reform. In September, an American
corporation purchased 100 percent of an Hungarian trading firm --
the first such total acquisition in Eastern European history.
( (Another example to come. ) )
But today's action represents something far greater than a
mere trade agreement. It signals the recognition that a quiet
revolution is taking place in thousands of shops, farms and
factories. It signals the rebirth of Hungary as an
entrepreneurial nation.
Our measure will, of course, grant these new Hungarian
entrepreneurs access to the largest single market in the world.
But the peoples of America and Hungary are exchanging more than
4
just blue jeans and fine wine. We are exchanging ideas and
ideals that can only be the shared province of free peoples.
Just last week, on the anniversary of the 1956 Revolution,
Hungary scrapped the title "People's Republic" -- that epitaph of
democracy common to one-party states -- and proclaimed itself to
be a true republic. It is this new Hungarian Republic that has
adopted a Bill of Rights to guarantee freedom of the press,
assembly and religion. Americans watch these acts of national
courage with wonder and admiration and something more -- a
willingness to help.
Just as we are helping the people of Hungary today, so we
are determined to assist wherever people aspire to greater
freedom. In Poland, the new Solidarity-led government has put
forward a bold program of economic reform. They have asked for
our support, and they will get it -- starting with this
Administration's commitment to provide a grant worth $200 million
as our contribution to the Polish request for a $1 billion
stabilization grant from the West. ( (And on Monday, I will
announce a U.S. mission to Warsaw of officials, businessmen and
economic experts to determine how this fund can best serve the
cause of reform. ))
We are not passive observers, but active supports of reform.
For we know that we are privileged to participate in a very
special moment in human history. Never before have repressive,
centralized, regimes attempted the transformation into
pluralistic democracies with market economies. In Budapest, a
5
boy waves the flag of his nation -- with the hammer and sickle
removed. Remarkable. In Warsaw, a dissident who once languished
in a dungeon now presides over Parliament. Incredible. In East
Germany, thousands of courageous men and women march arm-in-arm
through the streets of Leipzig to make a peaceful stand for
freedom. Inspiring. It is in these amazing scenes that we see a
portrait of the indomitable spirit of Man.
Throughout Eastern Europe and in the Soviet Union itself, we
see evidence of the ascendancy of freedom. We see signs of a new
Europe, which no one need fear, a Europe whole and free. And as
we witness this historic tide of freedom, riding at the crest is
one nation -- the people of Republic of Hungary. To them I say:
We admire you. We support you. And we welcome you as friends of
freedom.
Thank you, and now it will be my pleasure to sign these two
documents to grant Hungary Most Favored Nation status.