Ask the Scholar

Document scope · 1 page
doc
Scholar
Ask about this object, its catalog metadata, its source description, or the page inventory. For page-specific OCR and visual context, open one of the page chats.

Scholar Source Context

Document identity
localId
44169821
label
Trip Book - POTUS [President of the United States] Trip to Venezuela, Brazil and Argentina, October 12-19, 1997 (part 2) [2]
core
doc
dtoType
document
pageCount
1
Source metadata
id
44169821
contentType
document
title
Trip Book - POTUS [President of the United States] Trip to Venezuela, Brazil and Argentina, October 12-19, 1997 (part 2) [2]
collections
Records of the National Security Council Records Management Office (Clinton Administration)
Records Management Administrative Files
imageCount
1
hasImages
yes
source
import
hasTranscription
no
Source extras
naId
44169821
levelOfDescription
fileUnit
otherTitles
42-t-7585710-20091155F-017-003-2016
recordType
description
ocrSource
nara-archive
Single page context
seq
1
pageIndex
0
type
document
mediaId
92e549735d35c3ac
ocrText
Case Number: 2009-1155-F FOIA MARKER This is not a textual record. This is used as an administrative marker by the Clinton Presidential Library Staff. Folder Title: Trip Book-POTUS [President of the United States] Trip to Venezuela, Brazil & Argentina, October 12-19, 1997 (part 2) [2] Staff Office-Individual: Records Management Original OA/ID Number: 3628 Row: Section: Shelf: Position: Stack: 47 3 9 2 V THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN 10-30-97 TOWN HALL QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS REGIONAL ISSUES Q: Your country has benefited from the global economy but in this part of the world there are too many people who cannot find jobs that pay enough to live on. Hasn't globalization meant the impoverishment of large segments of our societies? Promoting free trade and open markets is the best way to create new jobs and help lift millions out of poverty in this hemisphere and around the globe. The alternative, closed economies and non-market approaches is precisely the wrong answer -- everywhere it has been tried it has yielded only inefficiency and stagnation. At the same time, spreading the benefits of this global economy so that everyone is lifted out of poverty, is one of the greatest challenges we face. Our central goal must be to ensure that the benefits of open markets and free trade are fairly distributed. A key element is to invest more resources in educating our children. For those who don't already have the skills or opportunity to succeed in this new economy, we have an obligation to provide education, training, and access to technology to learn new skills and find new jobs. We are reaching a new hemispheric consensus that universal education is the key to eradicating poverty. President Cardoso and I reaffirmed this priority this week by signing an Education Partnership that will help us join forces to improve standards, increase teacher training, and expand the use of t.echnology in the classroom. When the leaders of the hemisphere meet again next Spring in Santiago, we will focus on education and poverty alleviation as core issues on our hemispheric agenda. Our hemisphere's security depends on spreading prosperity as widely and diversely as possible. Q: Why have you waited so long to come to South America? Does it mean that we are not important to the U.S.? Relations with Latin America and the Caribbean has been a priority since the very start of my Presidency. 2 The passage of NAFTA was one of my Administration's most important early achievements. In 1994, I acted to defend the Mexican financial system from a crisis that had profound implications for the hemisphere. My Administration organized and hosted the Summit of the Americas in 1994 to build a comprehensive agenda for the hemisphere that finds common solutions to our common problems. I also have appointed Mack McLarty as my special envoy to the region, a signal of the strong commitment my Administration places on these important relationships. I am pleased to be here in South America at this historic juncture. We stand at the crossroads of a new century and a new outlook on our role in the world. I firmly believe that we will either march forward together toward a more prosperous and secure 21st century, or we will find ourselves increasingly disadvantaged in today's fast-paced global economy. Q: Why have you decided to start an arms race in Latin America, just when governments are beginning to focus on poverty and civilian control of the military is still weak? We have never sought and do not now seek to foster an arms race in Latin America. We recognize that the hemisphere has changed dramatically in the last ten years: almost completely democratic, with strong civilian control of the military, border disputes largely resolved, and flourishing cross-border trade and investment. In that light, it no longer made sense to presumptively deny requests from our democratic partners in the hemisphere or to treat Latin America differently from other regions of the world. We will review each request on a case by case taking into account regional military and security implications. At the same time, we want to further strengthen the process of defense cooperation and confidence-building underway in the region. We are working at the OAS to enhance hemispheric confidence and security-building measures and transparency of arms acquisitions and we have initiated a series of Defense 3 Ministerials of the Americas designed to increase defense cooperation and strengthen civilian control. Q: What gives the United States the right to judge other countries' human rights policies? These are not American values -- they are universal concepts enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, concepts of freedom of expression, freedom of conscience, freedom from abuse -- rights that belong to all human beings. At the same time, human rights and respect for the individual are central to our identity as a nation. That is why the American people expect and demand that their government advance these values in our foreign policy. That's nothing I apologize for. Certainly, the United States has its own legacy of racial divide that still must be overcome. Healing the wounds of religious, ethnic or racial division is something that I have personally dedicated myself to for my entire life. Ultimately, by speaking out against human rights violations wherever they occur, we can increase overall awareness of these values and strengthen adherence to these universal standards -- in the United States and throughout the world. Q: Why has the United States pressured Latin American countries so hard on money laundering? Every year drug users spend millions of dollars feeding their habit, money that ends up in the hands of narcotics traffickers, criminal organizations and terrorists groups. But first, it has to be laundered, usually crossing borders with the tap of a computer key. That's why, to stop this activity, we need the cooperation of all affected countries. We applaud Argentina's leadership in the coordinated hemispheric effort to frustrate those who attempt to launder the proceeds of illicit activity. Q: For years, the United States was associated with actions to undermine democracy in Latin America and to support some of the more repressive regimes in the region -- all in the name of 4 fighting communism. Shouldn't the U.S. apologize for its past behavior? The recent history of this hemisphere, including its darker moments, should be a constant reminder to all of us -- the United States and countries in this region -- of the central importance of democracy and respect for individual rights. Over the past two decades, the Americas have undergone an historic transformation. Latin America was once marked by military dictatorship, repression, communist insurgency, violent coups, and command economies. Today, every nation in the hemisphere but one is a democracy; respect for human rights has dramatically improved; and trade barriers have come down. This fundamental evolution has meant far greater opportunity, prosperity and freedom for the people of the Americas. Our priority today must be to lock in these gains and secure them for the future. Today, there is a consensus in the hemisphere -- unique in the world -- that democracy is the only legitimate form of government and that threats to democracy will be addressed by countries of the region collectively. Q: As you deport U.S. gang members, they go home to Central America and start local gangs there. What is the United States prepared to do about this? We recognize that crime has become too common and too violent in the hemisphere and we are committed to work with other governments to address it. We are prepared to assist the authorities of the receiving countries - in Central America or elsewhere - to better identify these individuals and the crimes they have been convicted of prior to their return. This will enable local authorities to take whatever preventative measures are necessary. We also are discussing with local authorities additional ways to diminish the impact of such returns. We are also planning to establish an International Law Enforcement Academy in the region to help authorities in Central America and throughout the Americas to help reduce crime. 5 Q: Why does the United States discriminate against Latin American agricultural exports? The United States does not discriminate against Latin American agricultural exports. In fact, our agricultural trade is booming, to the benefit of consumers and producers in both the United States and in South America. In 1996, for instance, we imported more than $700 million in agricultural products from Argentina. [overall agr. figure] And those numbers are increasing as a result of a recent decision on Argentine beef. I'd say we have a pretty good appetite for your produce. At the same time, every government has an obligation to ensure that foods available on the market are safe and healthy. I recently instructed our Agriculture Department to take steps to strengthen our protections and safeguards against the import of unsafe food and produce - not just from Latin America but from every region in the world. This is not a trade barrier; it is a public health measure. Q. Argentina, Brazil and other Latin countries have been fighting over who should represent Latin America in a new U.N. Security Council. What does the United States think? My Administration believes that Latin America, Asia and Africa each should have a permanent seat on the Security Council, in addition to Germany and Japan. How these seats are allocated is not for the United States but for the countries of the regions themselves to decide. Q: What is the United States doing to make the internet more accessible to people around the world? The internet is a powerful tool for global communication, learning, and commerce -- the power of which few of us understood only years ago. Its development can empower individual citizens by providing them with information and ideas that know no national boundary or ideological frontier. We are doing a lot to ensure broader access to this important new medium -- just yesterday I inaugurated a school in Rio with new internet capabilities and my Administration launched the GLOBE internet program to hook-up American schools with schools 6 around the world. Over 50 countries are participating, including Argentina and Brazil. I also have articulated a set of principles that we refer to as Global Electronic Commerce, which recognize the importance of the internet and the need to encourage its development through market-driven forums. I'm pleased that President Menem has embraced this approach. TRADE Q: Does your struggle for Fast Track signal that the people of the United States don't really want to be a part of this hemisphere? No. One of the reasons I came to South America is to witness first hand the explosive growth here and to help explain to Americans that if we don't join this exciting development, we will be left behind. The United States is the most open economy in the world. Our workers are among the most productive, and our products among the most competitive. The American people benefit from our active participation in the world trading system. At the same time, free trade can mean painful adjustments for certain sectors of the economy. Our goal must be to provide all our citizens with the tools to benefit from the opportunities of the global economy. We also have to ensure that trade expansion does not come at the expense of environmental standards or worker rights. Free trade must lift our societies, not degrade them. Q. Why is the U.S. pushing so hard for the Free Trade Area of the Americas? What will you do if your Congress does not give you fast track authority? History and our own experience show that liberalizing trade is critical to promoting economic prosperity. Open markets benefit all countries involved, contributing to technology transfer, job creation and improved standards of living. For example, U.S. exports to Latin America have grown 200% since 1990 -- reaching $109 billion last year. Overall, trade has 7 generated one-third of America's strong economic growth and 2 million well-paying jobs for U.S. workers. Similarly, your own experience in Argentina confirms the advantages generated by open trade and investment regimes. Since Argentina sharply reduced its trade barriers and created the Mercosur customs union in the 1990's, productivity has soared, and overall living standards are improving. Rapid progress on negotiation of the FTAA will further strengthen South America's reform process, providing it with new opportunities to boost exports and attract investment. Q: Did you make any progress on FTAA during your trip? We reached agreement that we should launch comprehensive and broad-scale negotiations on the Free Trade Area of the Americas next April in Santiago. We also agree that we will implement the FTAA as a single undertaking no later than 2005 and we agree on the need for concrete progress toward this goal by 2000. This moves us from a common agenda to a common action plan. Q. What does the U.S. think of Mercosur? Doesn't it interfere with the formation of a hemispheric free trade area? We see Mercosur as an opportunity, not an adversary. Mercosur has played a positive role in opening markets in the Southern Cone and in supporting economic reform programs undertaken by its members. In turn, these achievements have helped lay the foundation for further progress on market liberalization through the FTAA and the WTO. As a leading trading partner of Mercosur's members, the U.S. has benefited enormously from the group's formation. U.S. exports to Mercosur almost tripled over the last 6 years, reaching $18 billion last year. Mercosur and the process of integration it symbolizes also has helped support democracy and reduce regional tensions. Like NAFTA and the Caribbean and Central American common market, MERCOSUR is an important stepping stone to an FTAA, and is accelerating the pace of regional integration. 8 Q: NAFTA has failed to improve life on the border - wages are low, poverty is high and water and air are dirty. Why do you want to export NAFTA's model to the region if it has been a failure? I disagree. NAFTA has made possible a whole new era of cooperative relations between Mexico and the United States on the broad range of economic, environmental and social concerns we share across our 2,000 mile border. [TK Mexico press conference] Unquestionably, the financial crisis Mexico experienced at the end of 1994, and the Mexican recession which followed in 1995, made life more difficult for most Mexicans. But because of NAFTA, Mexico recovered much more rapidly than it had from previous financial crises -- returning to international financial markets after only 7 months in 1995 -- compared with seven years in 1982. Mexican output grew 5% in 1996 and recovery has picked up pace this year. On the environment, many border problems were decades in the making and to expect them to be resolved in three years is simply unrealistic. We are working together with Mexico and Canada to improve our ability to address pollution and we are beginning to see environmental success stories emerge on the border. ENVIRONMENT: Q: Why is the United States, the world's largest polluter, asking us to help clean up the environment? Why should we be constrained on how we develop when the U.S. and rest of the industrialized world were not? One of the gravest challenges we face is climate change. The evidence is compelling that greenhouse gases are leading to global warming, and that global warming will lead to profound changes in the way we lead our lives. Infectious diseases will spread more rapidly, the oceans will rise, and the world's map will change dramatically. These will harm our citizens' health and quality of life regardless of where they live. Five years ago, the nations of the world began to address this challenge at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. And this December, we will arrive at a crucial crossroads at the U.N. Conference on Climate Change in Kyoto. There we will set binding 9 limits for ourselves on carbon dioxide emissions, and we will create a blueprint we hope others will follow. Some say the problem is insoluble. They used to say the same thing about ozone depletion, a special concern to Argentina and to all of us concerned about the Antarctica. But we just celebrated the tenth anniversary of the Montreal Protocol, and we are making real progress toward limiting our production of fluorocarbons, the chemicals eating a hole in the earth's atmosphere. The United States bears a special responsibility for climate change. We have contributed more than our share to the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. It is only fair that we work hard toward a solution. But we cannot do it without the help of our friends in the developed and developing world. I know some people in the developing world would say, we didn't cause the problem, we don't have to be part of the solution. But this is a global problem that can only be addressed collectively. That is why we ask them to join us in acting now so that today's progress does not come at tomorrow's expense We should not and we are not asking the developing countries to go it alone. The United States will provide a billion dollars to help developing nations find alternative energy sources and use them more efficiently. [TK] At the Miami Summit, we made sustainable development a key component of the hemispheric agenda. Next year, at the Santiago Summit, we plan to make this agenda a cornerstone of a new era in inter-American cooperation. Together, we need to move from national rivalries to partnership and progress. This is not an American issue, or an Argentine issue, or a developing world issue. It is a world issue. Q: Brazil has proposed tough restrictions on developed country greenhouse gas emissions for climate change negotiations. Will the United States accept this? Just last week I held extensive consultations with a wide variety of people on climate change issues, and we are finalizing our own position as the world convenes next week in Bonn for the final preparatory round. I discussed this issue with President Cardoso and President Menem in some detail. I wanted to understand Brazilian thinking 10 before I finalize our position. An effective treaty requires the active and constructive participation of all countries. There are some tough political choices ahead for all of us. The problem is one that will require a shared sense of responsibility if we are to solve it. Q: What about burning in the rainforest? Isn't it getting worse, not better? The rainforests here and elsewhere around the world are of importance to all mankind. I am pleased that our two governments and non-governmental organizations from both countries have a growing program of cooperation on rainforest study, preservation and research. We are expanding our cooperation on the rainforest into space. NASA and the Brazilian Space Agency are working together on a number of projects relating to the environment and rainforest in particular. I am pleased that Brazil is our newest partner in the International Space Station, which will provide an excellent scientific platform to improve our knowledge of our environment. The United States will be contributing $10 million to the G-7 Pilot Program for the Amazon, which is conducted fully in cooperation with the Government of Brazil. When I go to Bariloche with President Menem, we will have something more to say on our common approach to addressing the environment. We need to address rainforest issues in a spirit of partnership and responsibility. Q: Isn't it unjust that the United States consumes so much energy, with so small a share of the world population? The United States is the world's largest economy and plays an important role in the overall health and stability of the global economy. It is important that the United States balances its legitimate energy needs with the protection of the global environment while at the same time sustaining economic growth. We have made dramatic strides at increasing the energy efficiency of our economy -- through advanced technology, conservation and renewable energy, we have begun a historic 11 transformation for an industrial based economy to a technology or information based economy. It is an important issue and one that I've discussed with Presidents Caldera, Cardoso and Menem during this trip, and we will discuss them further as a hemisphere next Spring at the Santiago Summit. Q: Why should we care about protecting forests when we can't feed our children? This is a false choice. Protecting our environment and growing our economies do not have to come at each other's expense. In the United States, the Vice President and I work hard at finding the right balance of protecting our natural resources while giving people the tools to grow and prosper in the new global economy. As we give our citizens the necessary tools to succeed and prosper in the global economy we must not walk away from the new challenges of the 21st century. Protecting the rainforest, one of South America's greatest treasure will be critical to sustaining our planet's heritage, ecosystems and natural resources - we must be able to do both. IMMIGRATION Q: What is your view of the recent efforts in Congress to act on your proposal to change certain parts of the recent immigration law affecting Central Americans and others who have been in the United States for long periods of time? In July, I transmitted to the Congress a legislative proposal to remedy the harsh, unintended consequences of the new immigration law for Central Americans and others who have developed substantial ties to the United States. It does so by permitting them to be considered on a case-by-case basis under the rules that were in effect at the time their immigration cases were initiated. This is a fair, even-handed, and measured approach. Several Republicans in the House announced their intention to introduce a bill that would provide relief to Central Americans, including an amnesty to most Nicaraguans in the U.S. We welcome Congressional efforts to treat immigrants fairly, but want to make sure the proposal is fair. My Administration's goal is to provide even-handed treatment to all Central Americans who sought refuge in United States as well 12 as others who have developed substantial equities here. I strongly urge the Congress to act but to do so quickly SO that these individuals can get on with their lives. COLOMBIA Q: Your Administration has taken a very harsh approach to Colombia, decertifying its counterdrug efforts and denying President Samper's visa. Now, because Samper is so weak, the guerrillas are gaining strength. Do you think this policy is a success or a failure? Our approach to Colombia is driven by the fact that it is the number one source of cocaine and an increasing source of heroin entering the United States. We have continued our cooperation with those elements of the Colombian government and society dedicated to fighting drug trafficking. Over the last year, I have authorized significant increases in counternarcotics assistance to the Colombian security forces to help them interdict and eradicate these drugs before they enter the United States. We are concerned that the level of violence associated with the internal conflict in Colombia is increasing and that some groups seek to disrupt elections scheduled this month. We favor any measures to end the violence and to hold elections as scheduled, which is important to maintaining the democratic process. We support an OAS election observer mission. MEXICO Q: Why do you treat migrants from Mexico like criminals and militarize our common border? We need to ensure that immigration to U.S. is legal and fair. We and Government of Mexico are working very closely to ensure that basic rights of anyone apprehended are respected. Where isolated cases of abuses have occurred, we investigate thoroughly and, where warranted, punish abusers. 13 CUBA Q: Is it true that your government won't let in Cubans fleeing persecution but you want Argentina and other countries to admit them? We take in 6,000 Cuban political refugees every year. To deter unsafe and illegal migration from Cuba, we have asked other countries to accept small numbers so they can be resettled. ARGENTINA POLITICS Q: We hold mid-term elections later this month that could increase the chance of an opposition victory in the Presidential elections in 1999. How will U.S. relations with Argentina change if the opposition takes power? Relations between our two countries are at an historic high. It is a relationship based not just on the similar outlook I share with President Menem on many issues, but upon a broad spectrum of common interests between our two countries-- economic, global, environmental. Our two countries have a great deal in common as we face the challenges and opportunities of the next century. And this is more than a bilateral phenomenon. Our two countries have led a process of hemispheric convergence which is only now gaining momentum. I am confident that our deep and broad relationship will remain strong beyond President Menem's administration and my own, and will ensure that our close relationship will continue. Q: What is the U.S. doing to help us get back the Malvinas (Falkland) Islands? My talks with President Menem have given me a profound appreciation for the importance of this matter to the people of Argentina. I understand how deeply your views are felt. There have been great advances in Argentine-UK relations in many areas such as trade, military relations, even joint peacekeeping in Cyprus. We are very encouraged by the dramatically improved climate of understanding and cooperation. My hope, consistent with what we have said all along in the UN and to both countries, is that our two close friends will continue their 14 direct dialogue. There is every reason to hope, with continued good will on both sides, for even more progress in the future. Q: You must be aware of the problem of corruption and judicial manipulation in Argentina, which many blame on President Menem. Do you consider this a serious problem in our relationship? Did you discuss this with President Menem? I understand that there is a lot of discussion and concern about this subject, and because it has become an issue in your congressional elections, I will limit my comments. Corruption, first and foremost, is a moral issue and it is a problem everywhere in the world. So change must begin with individuals. Second, as a general principle, for good government to work on behalf of the people, it must be transparent and should not become overly involved in the economy. This is one reason why we believe in freeing the economy in many areas from direct government ownership, as Argentina has done. Third, we are working closely with other countries and institutions in the hemisphere, including Argentina, to bring attention to this problem and work together to reduce corruption and promote good government, for example by strengthening judiciaries and professionalizing police forces. Q. You say human rights have improved in Argentina, but journalists are under attack here and elsewhere. Did you raise this with President Menem? A free and unfettered press is essential to democracy. As democracies strengthen in the Americas, we must address this issue head on so that civil society can flourish. We applaud important work already being done in this area by the inter-American human rights system. Believe OAS members should look at other ways of bolstering free press, as countries in Europe have done. Q: Why is the U.S. giving Major Non-NATO ally status to Argentina? Isn't this just another way to disrupt regional cooperation in Latin America? 15 I have notified the Congress of my intention to grant Major Non- NATO Ally status to Argentina in recognition of Argentina's contribution to global peacekeeping. MNNA status symbolizes the close cooperation between Argentina and the United States in international peacekeeping, and the importance we attach to Argentine leadership in this field, both here in the hemisphere and beyond. It is our way of recognizing the sacrifice Argentines have made in missions of peace in Cyprus, Haiti, Kuwait, the former Yugoslavia, and elsewhere. It is in no way intended to drive a wedge between Argentina and its neighbors, whom we would be happy to consider for a similar designation. I have discussed with Presidents Menem and Cardoso the important and very positive trends underway in the Southern Cone, represented in deepening security cooperation among the states in this region, and exemplified by the emergence of MERCOSUR as a positive force for integration. We welcome and support these developments, which we believe support democracy and economic reform, reduce regional tensions, and expand trade, including our trade with the region. We have no aim to divide the countries of the Southern Cone; to the contrary, we support their increasing integration. Q: Foreign Minister di Tella has said that Argentina wants "carnal relations" with the U.S. We also have a very close relationship with Brazil and Mercosur. As the leader of the only superpower, how do you see Argentina's role in the world today? Under President Menem, Argentina has not only transformed its economy, but has also sought a new, more responsible place in the world community with closer relations to other developed countries, including the United States. Of course, the United States has welcomed this important change. One of the reasons I decided to visit Argentina was to recognize and highlight the very positive role this country has played on the world stage. Argentina's participation in major international missions around the globe -- from Haiti to Bosnia - and its efforts on other global challenges like nonproliferation, counterterrorism, and the environment has contributed significantly to their success. Of course, Argentina has other important allies and relationships, including Brazil and the other Mercosur members. These relationship are not a zero sum game. We have no desire that Argentina should choose between Brazil and the U.S., any 16 more than we have forced the nations of Europe to choose between their relations with each other, and with the U.S. These nations are all close friends of the United States and we are all part of the same hemispheric family of democracies. The nations of the Americas are cooperating more and more towards accomplishing our common goals and common values, and I am looking forward to visiting Santiago next year with other hemispheric leaders for the next Summit of the Americas. Q: Why does the U.S. continue to complain about Argentina's patent law? In today's world, in which information-based industries are critical to economic progress, it is essential that innovators receive the protection required to enable them to reap the benefits of their work. Without such protection, innovators will have little incentive to develop and market their ideas, and society as a whole will be poorer. Unfortunately, Argentina's pharmaceutical patent law does not protect innovators' rights. This failure discourages investment in Argentina's pharmaceutical sector, and penalizes Argentine consumers. Perhaps more importantly, it undermines Argentina's efforts to develop the information-based, high-value added industries which are key to the country's economic future. Q. The U.S. has accumulated a bilateral trade surplus of over $12 billion with Argentina over the last five years. Still, the U.S. maintains significant barriers to Argentine exports, as shown with lemons, peanuts and seamless pipe. Why is this the case? Although we have disagreements over a few products, this should not obscure the overall health of our bilateral trade relationship and the importance of the American market to Argentina. Since 1990, Argentina's exports to the U.S. have doubled--rising from $1.1 billion to well over $2 billion. We recently opened the market to imports of Argentine fresh beef, for example. And we need to move forward with negotiation of the FTAA. Q. It seems like every day more and more Argentine companies are being bought or taken over by big foreign firms, including U.S. ones. Do U.S. companies plan to take over the whole country? What kind of future do our local companies have? The same thing that you see happening in Argentina is happening around the world--the globalization of the economy. The 17 revolution in communications and other changes mean that competition between businesses is taking place not just on a local or national scale, but on a global one. This process can be frightening, as some familiar companies fail to meet these new challenges, or have to lay off workers to survive. At the same time, however, new export opportunities create new jobs, and consumers get better products at better prices. If we prepare our citizens and companies to survive in the new global economy, everyone can come out ahead over time. Q. In Argentina, we are living through a difficult period now with very high unemployment. What do you think of the situation here? Are you impressed with what you have seen? I wish I had more time to get to know Argentina better, but what I have seen and heard makes me think Argentina is on the right track. Argentina has firmly established democracy after a very difficult period of dictatorship, something you are about to demonstrate again in the elections later this month. You have also reformed and modernized your economy and public services, made it possible for businesses to compete and grow, and made your country an attractive place for foreign investors, including Americans. These are real achievements that I think all Argentines can be proud of. I know that not everyone is benefiting yet from economic reforms, and that there are a lot of people without jobs. There are other social problems and institutional reforms that need to be addressed too. But I believe that with those essential ingredients of a strong democracy and an open economy, Argentina will find ways to deal with these challenges and ensure that more people share in the benefits of your country's economic transformation. Finally, I want to add that I have been extremely impressed by the warmth, sophistication and energy of the Argentine people. You have a beautiful, vibrant capital city, and I am looking forward to seeing some of Argentina's natural beauty in Bariloche this weekend. 18 Q. Isn't the United States concerned about Argentina's heavy reliance on foreign capital and the possibility of economic instability? Will the U.S. save Argentina from a future peso crisis, as it did Mexico? President Menem led the unprecedented, remarkably successful reforms which have made Argentina one of the most promising emerging markets in the world. When crisis hit Latin American finances in 1995, Argentina held firm -- and did not compromise on stability or market-oriented policies. U.S. investors have confidence in Argentina. Q. Why doesn't the US have an ambassador in Argentina? When will we get one? We have a very capable Charge d'Affairs and embassy staff that are more than qualified to represent US interests in Argentina. I am sorry to say that we have had some delays in naming a new Ambassador in Argentina. There are a number of reasons for this, including our complicated process of Congressional approval for ambassadorial appointments. I can assure you, though, that I consider Argentina one of the United States' best friends and closest partners in the world, and I plan to get a new U.S. Ambassador in place very soon. Q: Why is the US exporting its pollution problems to Argentina? The US is not exporting its pollution problems to Argentina. In fact, the US is working closely with the Government of Argentina to cooperate in reducing toxic and greenhouse gas emissions in this part of the world. I am consulting with President Menem and other leaders on a new approach in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. This new climate change action plan would allow developed countries to invest in environmental protection programs in developing countries and share credit for emission reductions in those countries. With the help of Argentina, we hope to be able to draw worldwide support for this program. Q: Why does the US allow American companies to buy and pollute Argentine land? The US does not allow or encourage US companies to buy up and pollute Argentine land. The US encourages the Government of Argentina to pass and enforce stricter laws for the protection of the environment in Argentina. The US government regularly 19 invites scientists, government officials and other professionals to the United States to trade expertise and skills to be used in the protection of the environment in Argentina. During this visit, I hope to sign an agreement between the National Parks Administration of Argentina and the US National Parks Service that would provide a conduit for the exchange of know-how in the protection of national parks, forests and protected areas. CUBA Q: Castro is still in power, repressing the Cuban people. When they try to flee, you send them back. Why? The phenomenon of Cuban migration is rooted fundamentally in the inability of the Cuban government to satisfy the basic material needs and democratic longings of the Cuban people. We are responding to these migration pressures in an appropriate and humane way, fully consistent with both U.S. law and international refugee protection principles. We seek to promote safe, legal and orderly migration as an alternative to the dangerous raft voyages that have brought such suffering to families on both sides of the Florida Straits. But let us be clear about where the blame lies for this problem- and that is with the Castro government. Cuba's communist government is lost on the tide of history-repressing freedom of expression, stifling economic growth and private ownership and limiting the choice and aspirations of its own people. That is why so many people want to leave Cuba. Q: Why does the Administration block any economic links with Castro but trade with China? Isn't that a contradiction in policy? Economic sanctions are an important foreign policy tool, which we use in compelling circumstances where their imposition will help achieve our foreign policy objectives. Sanctions are not a "one-size-fits-all foreign policy tool". We prefer to use sanctions which have multilateral support and participation wherever possible. Multilateral sanctions are obviously more effective and minimize collateral damage to U.S. commercial interests. However, we are prepared to use unilateral sanctions when important interests are at stake, as for example, in Cuba and other countries. 20 Democracy, human rights goals of policy the same for Cuba and China. But history, proximity, and judgement about the most effective way to achieve goals leads to different policies. U.S. has global interests, global principals but no cookie- cutter foreign policy. Q: Doesn't waiving Title III of the Helms Burton law undercut its purpose of isolating Castro? I believe suspension of Title III has contributed to the promotion of a peaceful, democratic transition in Cuba, consistent with our policy toward Cuba since the first days of my Administration and the goals of the Libertad Act. I have used the suspension period to develop a multilateral approach to efforts to promote democracy, human rights and fundamental freedoms in Cuba. Our friends and allies have become more united and firm in pushing for democratization in Cuba than ever before. As long as our friends and allies continue their stepped-up support for peaceful democratic change in Cuba, the suspension remains prudent. DOMESTIC Q: My mother lost her welfare checks because of your new immigration laws? What do you say to her? The answer depends on what your mother's legal status is in the United States. If she does not have lawful permanent status, she should explore the possibilities for obtaining such status. Many recent changes to U.S. law disqualify persons who do not have lawful permanent status or some equivalent status. If she does have lawful permanent status, she may wish to explore becoming a citizen of the United States. Citizens are subject to fewer limitations on benefits than immigrants are. Q: We heard much talk during the 1996 campaign about drugs - but haven't seen much since - what is the Administration doing in the war on drugs? This year, our Congress appropriated $213 million for international crime and drug control. The funds help foreign countries strengthen counter-narcotics enforcement and judicial capabilities, combat money laundering and eradicate illicit crops, interdict drug shipments and reduce drug demand. We have 21 also launched a number of narcotics and law enforcement initiatives with our hemispheric partners. Q: There have been recent efforts in the U.S. to restrict immigration and immigrants' rights. What is your position on these? I strongly believe that immigrants are a source of our vitality as a nation, our strength. We continue to welcome legal immigrants in large numbers. And for the most part, these are people who welcome the opportunities our society offers, who work hard and play by the rules, and who succeed. At the same time, the people of the United States expect their government to be an effective check against illegal immigration. I am determined to do this, and working with the Congress have committed the resources to make ours an effective border. But these efforts should be fair. The Congress has taken a step further in recent reforms to our immigration laws, removing certain welfare benefits from legal aliens. I oppose this and my Administration is working to correct this unfair situation. I also have specifically introduced legislation to correct a harsh aspect of our latest immigration legislation that would penalize those who fled the wars in Central America and sought refuge in the United States. Q: Why do you employ discriminatory visa policies? Argentina has a visa waiver; why not Brazil? There is no room for discrimination in our visa policy or in any governmental policies. It is illegal and wrong. I am committed to ensuring fair treatment to all people who have business before the United States. Our visa waiver policy subject to strict and impartial guidelines, including the rate of overstays by visa holders. I understand more visitor visas were issued to Brazilians over the past year than any other nationality. THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEM 10.30.97 PRESS CONFERENCE QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Why have you waited so long to come to South America? Isn't this trip a bit late in your presidency? Latin America has been a priority since the very start of my Presidency. The passage of NAFTA was one of my most important early achievements. In 1994, I acted to defend the Mexican financial system from a crisis that had profound implications for the hemisphere. My Administration organized and hosted the Summit of the Americas in 1994 to build a comprehensive agenda for the hemisphere that address our common values -- it was at the Miami Summit that I first met President-elect Cardoso. I have also appointed Mack McLarty as my special envoy to the region to demonstrate the strong commitment my Administration places on building a strong partnership with the hemisphere. So my interest in this hemisphere has been strong since I took office. I firmly believe that we will either march forward together toward a more prosperous and secure 21st century, or we will find ourselves increasingly disadvantaged in today's fast-paced global economy. I am pleased to be here in Brazil at this historic juncture. Brazil stands at the crossroads of a new century and a new outlook on its role in the world. President Cardoso has worked with his Congress to lay the foundations for Brazil's lasting economic strength in the years ahead, much as I have worked with our Congress to conclude a balanced budget deal that will ensure continued strong U.S. growth. We can't speak about prosperity in the Americas unless Brazil and the United States are moving forward together. I'm confident that we are with Brazil and the rest of our allies in the hemisphere. Did you make any progress with Cardoso on trade? Is Brazil still dragging its feet on FTAA? I think the United States and Brazil have much more in common on these questions than people realize. The United States and Brazil agree on the simultaneous launch of comprehensive and balanced negotiations on the Free Trade Area of the Americas 2 next April in Santiago, we agree that we will implement the FTAA as a single undertaking no later than 2005, and we agree on the need for concrete progress toward this goal by 2000. There are a number of meetings that will take place before Santiago. Trade negotiators will assemble again in San Jose, Costa Rica before the end of the year, and ministers will meet prior to Santiago. There are a number of specific issues that remain to be worked out. Have to remember that we are talking about a complex, far- reaching and historic undertaking here. Cardoso and I committed to working to advance this goal as constructively as possible. You still don't have Fast Track authority. How can you discuss trade without it? I am pleased that the Senate Finance Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee both had bipartisan majorities in favor of our Fast Track bill. The legislative process is moving forward; I am working hard to highlight the importance of expanding exports and creating jobs to the Congress and the American people. This trip gives the American people the opportunity to see the importance of engaging with our partners on free and open trade -- the open markets, thriving economies and the desire for American goods and services -- show that the countries of South America can be valuable partners in expanding the prosperity of the American people. Fast Track is about more than trade in this hemisphere. It's about bringing the Uruguay Round to closure with critical negotiations on services, for example. It's about following up on our dramatic success in achieving the Information Technology Agreement. It's about putting us in the game that is being played increasingly without us, and at a time when we have one of the winningest combinations on the field: a solid basis for sustained economic growth, the most competitive economy in the world, and one that is already more open to global competition than any of its trading partners. 3 What are you doing to promote press freedom? President Cardoso and I discussed this important issue. A free and vigorous press is the guardian of liberty and the foundation of a robust civil society. The OAS is doing important work on this issue, in particular the Inter- American Human Rights Commission and the Inter-American Court. There may be further ways of bolstering support for this important freedom. I note the recent work which has been done within the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe to create a position within its human rights mechanism to promote and help protect press freedom. This may be a useful precedent for the hemisphere. We will be exploring these ideas further during my trip. Not passing Fast Track legislation will not in any way stop the globalization of the world economy, or slow down the integration of our trading partners amongst themselves and between blocs, but it certainly will ensure that we will be no more than bystanders. Why does your Commerce Department say Brazil has a corrupt culture? That characterization was wrong and has been retracted. Certainly no culture can be corrupt, although every culture struggles with corruption in some form. I think we can be proud of our work together in this hemisphere, within the OAS, to pass the world's first anti-corruption convention. Point is, United States and Brazil have a booming economic relationship. Brazil is the largest recipient of American investment in Latin America. Obviously, U.S. and Brazilian businesspeople have found our two countries to be good places to do business. Why did the U.S. advance team insist on so many things? Did you really ask Brazil to change its time to suit you? President Cardoso and the Brazilian Government have been very welcoming and gracious hosts. I hope President Cardoso found it the same when he visited Washington in 1995. 4 The breadth of our discussions and the important agreements concluded during this visit indicate the United States and Brazil have a solid and productive bilateral agenda. Our vital partnership is propelling us both toward 21st century success. This is the good news of this visit, which I encourage people to focus on. Certainly no truth to the story that we asked to change the time. We're as obliged to follow the clock as you are! Why did the U.S. give only Argentina MNNA status? Aren't you trying to divide the sub-region just when we' re getting together? I am consulting with the Congress on Major Non-NATO Ally status for Argentina in recognition of the Argentine contribution to global peacekeeping and in order to stimulate further participation along those lines. Argentina, as has Brazil and many of our Latin American partners, contributed to international peacekeeping efforts. MNNA is a recognition of that. This is not exclusive to Argentina, and we are happy to consider other countries in the hemisphere for such status. President Cardoso and I have discussed the important and very positive trends underway in the Southern Cone, represented in deepening security cooperation among the states in this region, and exemplified by the emergence of MERCOSUR as a positive force for integration. We welcome and support these developments, which we believe support democracy and economic reform, reduce regional tensions, and expand trade, including our trade with the region. We have no aim to divide the countries of the Southern Cone; to the contrary, we support their increasing integration. Why have you decided to start an arms race in Latin America, just when governments are beginning to focus on poverty? We have never sought and do not now seek to foster an arms race in Latin America. Recognizing that the hemisphere is now almost completely democratic, with strong civilian control of the military and legitimate self-defense and security needs, it no longer made sense to presumptively deny requests to our mature allies in the hemisphere weapons orto treat Latin America differently from other regions of the world. 5 Weapons sales to Latin America now based on the same principles that apply worldwide and we will take any request for arms purchase on a case-by-case basis weighing the regional implications as well as the countries economic and military needs. We are working with the OAS to enhance hemispheric confidence and security-building measures, transparency of arms sales and acquisitions. Strongly support these efforts. Also, we have initiated a series of Defense Ministerials of the Americas, designed to increase defense cooperation and strengthen civilian control. Committed to responsible, mature and transparent defense relations with hemisphere. Don't you agree that Brazil, eighth largest world economy and global peacekeeping participant, is a logical Security Council permanent member? And shouldn't Brazil have a veto too? We think the Security Council should be expanded to a size of 20 or 21 members, to better reflect the world today. We do not favor any reforms that would weaken the Council or alter the current veto power of the five permanent members. We are open to new permanent seats for developing countries. Look to the countries of the region to determine how it should be represented. Free trade and market economies have done little to help Brazil's millions of poor and destitute. Aren't we on the wrong course? Free trade and open markets have helped lift millions out of poverty in this hemisphere and around the globe. The alternative, closed economies and non-market approaches have yielded only inefficiency and stagnation. Cardoso's policies to end inflation have done more to help the poor than any other single macroeconomic policy could. As he and I have discussed, the next steps lie in making the right investments in education and the environment, so that our future generations have a chance to build on our successes. 6 You say that your economy is open, yet Brazil's orange juice, footwear and steel are restricted access. Why? The United States and Brazil have a large and rapidly growing trade relationship. This is a reflection of the sound economic policy framework President Cardoso has pursued, as well as the underlying strength of both our economies. It's natural to have areas of friction in any large trade relationship. Ours is no exception, and our trade negotiators frequently discuss market access and other issues that affect U.S. exports to Brazil, and Brazilian exports to the United States. But keep in mind that our overall trade has nearly doubled to over $23 billion in the last five years. Overall, our trade relationship is one of the bright new aspects of a broad strengthening of our ties. Look to the FTAA process to further open our markets and reduce remaining barriers to trade. Brazil has proposed tough restrictions on developed country greenhouse gas emissions for climate change negotiations. Will the United States accept this? The Kyoto Conference on Climate Change will be extremely important. Just last week I held extensive consultations with a wide variety of people on climate change issues, and we are finalizing our own position as the world convenes next week in Berlin for the final preparatory round. Cardoso and I discussed this issue in some detail. I wanted to understand Brazilian thinking before I finalize our position. An effective treaty requires the active and constructive participation of all countries. There are some tough political choices ahead for all of us. The problem is one that will require a shared sense of responsibility if we are to solve it. The U.S. Senate insists on binding limits for developing countries too, yet Brazil is opposed. How did you and Cardoso discuss this? Cardoso and I conducted an honest consultation on our positions. The reality is, both developed and developing 7 countries must share in the solution to this problem if we hope to be successful. I am determined to provide leadership on this issue, but it is truly a global problem that requires global action. What about burning in the rainforest? Isn't it getting worse, not better? The rainforests here and elsewhere around the world are part of the patrimony of mankind. Brazil has a special responsibility to safeguard it. 1 am pleased that our two governments and nongovernmental organizations from both countries have a growing program of cooperation on rainforest study, preservation and research. We are expanding our cooperation on the rainforest into space. NASA and the Brazilian Space Agency are working together on a number of projects relating to the environment and rainforest in particular. I am pleased that Brazil is our newest partner in the International Space Station, which will provide an excellent scientific platform to improve our knowledge of our environment. The United States will be contributing $10 million to the G-7 Pilot Program for the Amazon, which is conducted fully in cooperation with the Government of Brazil. We need to address rainforest issues in a spirit of partnership and responsibility. Why do you employ discriminatory visa policies? Argentina has a visa waiver; why not Brazil? No room for discrimination in our visa policy or in any governmental policies. Not only illegal, just plain wrong. Committed to ensuring fair treatment to all people who have business before the United States. Visa waiver policy subject to strict and impartial guidelines, including the rate of overstays by visa holders. Not a policy of playing favorites. Understand more visitor visas were issued to Brazilians over the past year than any other nationality. 8 Did the CIA help mastermind Brazil's 1964 coup? Philip Agee says so, according to the Brazilian magazine "IstoE". Of course not. Mr. Agee has made a number of outrageous assertions over the years. I don't pay them much attention. Let's resolve that the days of coups in this hemisphere are over. Did you discuss the Chico Mendes case? What about the plight of Brazil's Amazon peoples? The 1988 murder of Chico Mendes grabbed the world's attention because of what he stood for, and because of our growing comprehension of the role of the habitat he sought to protect in our planet's health. The issues Chico Mendes championed are now center stage, as we head into the global climate change negotiations later this year. His name still echoes in the world's consciousness. This is his legacy. At the White House Climate Change Conference last week, you were quoted as saying that developing countries needed to take on meaningful commitments as part of a Kyoto agreement. How can you ask them to do so when the U.S. hasn't yet announced a target and timetable, and will fall short of the commitments it made at Rio? The climate change problem is global in nature, and cannot be solved without the participation of both industrialized and developing countries. While it is appropriate for developing countries to have a different level of commitment, we won't be able to solve this problem unless they take an active role. Is your position a violation of the Berlin Mandate? [The Berlin Mandate stipulated that developing countries would not be asked to take on new commitments as part of a Kyoto treaty.] No. We are exploring a variety of ways to enlist developing country participation and to ensure that they do their fair share, consistent with the Berlin Mandate. 9 How can you expect an agreement in Kyoto? The major industrialized nations seem no closer now to an agreement than they were at Denver. The EU has proposed a 15% reduction of emissions from 1990 by the year 2010, and have criticized the Japanese proposal for a 5% reduction. With less than two months before Kyoto, the U.S. has not yet tabled a proposal, and according to press reports, the U.S. is only considering options that are weaker than the Japanese proposal. Isn't time running out? We want to reach a meaningful agreement at Kyoto. We have said that we will bring a strong, realistic, and achievable proposal to Kyoto, one that both protects the environment and is economically sound. We still hope that all nations will come to Kyoto with a realistic, constructive and open frame of mind. Is it true, as press reports have suggested, that you are not going to consider any proposal more aggressive than 1990 levels by 2010? We're not yet ready to make an announcement. We plan to do so soon, and that proposal will include a strong realistic target that protects the environment and is environmentally sound. Reports in the U.S. press suggest that you are considering a so- called "escape hatch" or "safety valve". Isn't this inconsistent with your stated support for binding targets? The U.S. remains committed to realistic, achievable, and binding emissions targets as part of the Kyoto round. The target and policies we announce will protect the environment and be economically sound. Will you rule out raising energy taxes? We are considering a number of ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Energy taxes are not part of our current thinking, but it is not my practice to make categorical pledges, and I am not going to do that now. 10 When do you expect to have a U.S. proposal? We're working actively to put forward the best position possible for the Kyoto round. We're hopeful that we will be able to do this before the end of the Bonn meeting. Will you or the Vice President go to Kyoto? No decisions have been made. PHOTOCOPY THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN WJC HANDWRITING 10-14-97 THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary (Brasilia, Brazil) For Immediate Release October 14, 1997 FACT SHEET The U.S. Brazil Partnership: Improving Education in the 21st Century. President Clinton and President Cardoso today launched an historic education partnership to advance their shared commitment to ensure that all our citizens have the tools they need to prosper in the 21st century economy. This agreement includes cooperative initiatives to increase educational levels, access to technology, and the quality of teaching in both countries. This agreement also sets the stage for making education a centerpiece of the hemispheric agenda at the Santiago Summit of the Americas next April. There are four core areas of cooperation: Making Sure No Child Is Left Behind in the Information Revolution 1. Public-Private Sector Dialogue on Technology in the Classroom. This initiative will encourage and direct private sector support to provide access to technology and increase the ability of students in both countries to use the tools to learn in the new global economy; 2. Providing Access to Education Technology in Rural Communities. Brazil and the United States will launch a cooperative initiative to increase access to education and information technologies for the thousands of rural communities which currently are without electricity, in partnership with the Clean Energy Agreement and Brazil's PRODEEM program. Through the use of solar and other renewable energy technologies, communities will be acle : afford electricity and improve their access to new educational technologies; 3. Next Generation Internet. Brazil and the United States WiLL collaborate in the development of the Next Generation Internet Initiative to increase the technological capabilities bi both countries' educational system; 4. Linking Classrooms in the United States and Brazil. Education officials in both countries will collaborate to increase nign- tech computer link-ups between classrooms, teachers, and students in the U.S. and Brazil; 5. Brazilian "Tech Corps". In support of this initiative, the International Data Group of Brazil will work with the Brazilian information technology community to launch a Tech CLINTON LIBRARY PHOTOCOPY 1.) Corps Brazil chapter. This builds on the U.S. TechCorps initiative that was announced by President Clinton in 1995. TechCorps Brazil will place volunteers from the technology community in Brazilian schools as advisers and mentors assisting introduction and integration of new technologies. Building A World Class System of Educational Standards. 1. Education Indicators. Brazil and the United States will collaborate to develop world-class education statistics and indicators; 2. Joint Research. Education researchers from both countries will engage in a joint study of what works best in strengthening reading and mathematics achievement in the early grades; 3. Policy Dialogue. Officials from both countries will launch a policy dialogue on their common challenge of developing effective standards in a decentralized education system. Strengthening Teachers and Administrators. 1. Decentralized Decision-making. In an effort to empower teachers and administrators, officials from both countries will exchange information and training on preparing teachers and school administrators to face the challenges of today's classrooms, emphasizing on-site decision making; 2. Improving Learning about Science. Brazil and the United States will cooperate to improve and strengthen the teaching and learning of science to give today's students the skills for tomorrow's economy, including through exchanges of U.S. and Brazilian teachers and school administrators: 3. Student Exchanges. The agreement creates a new exchange program for U.S. and Brazilian university students in fields such as engineering and technology. Making Business A Partner in Education. 1. Dissemination of Best Practices. As business 12 the United States and Brazil pioneer efforts to improve education in their local communities, this agreement will enhance the sharing of information and materials on how families and businesses can best contribute to children's learning and improve schools; 2. AmCham Quality in Teaching Initiative. One example of such efforts is the initiative supported by the American Chamber of Commerce to improve student performance in Brazil's public schools. The "Quality in Teaching" initiative focuses on teacher training, frequent testing of students in reading and math, and curriculum design; 3 3. AmCham Education Technology Initiative. In support of the U.S. - Brazil education partnership, AmCham is expanding its education support to include technology. A number of leading high tech information technology and telecommunications companies will provide assistance in such areas as Internet access, distance learning, and computer use to improve teacher training. # # # THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN 10-14-97 PRESIDENTIAL PRESS GUIDANCE FOREIGN POLICY ISSUES TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 1997 TOTAL IRAN DEAL MIDDLE EAST IRAN IRAQ NO-FLY ZONE/USS NIMITZ BOSNIA CHINA PROLIFERATION RUSSIA IRAN MISSILE COOPERATION MARYLAND TEEN'S EXTRADITION FROM ISRAEL KABILA HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES ANTI LANDMINE GROUP WINS NOBEL PRIZE THREATS BY GROUPS ON SECSTATE TERRORISM LIST NATO COST DEBATE MC CAFFREY COMMENT ON COLOMBIA MARXISTS NEW KURDISH FIGHTING TOTAL IRAN DEAL Will the US impose sanctions under the Iran Libya Sanctions Act? Our position on major investment in Iran's oil and gas fields is clear: it makes more resources available for Iran's use in terrorism and its pursuit of ballistic missiles and nuclear weapons. We must now investigate the implications of Total's decision under US law, and then we will take whatever action is appropriate. ILSA is the law, and we will apply it fully. Obviously, we are working with our allies to find a common approach to ensure that Iran is clear about where we stand. What does this mean for US-French relations? We and France share the same goals: preventing Iran from supporting terrorism and developing weapons of mass destruction. Where we and France sometimes differ is over tactics - here, the best way to stop Iran. That's what the Iran-Libya Sanctions Act does. I don't disagree with European efforts to have a critical dialogue with Iran -- but I'm doubtful that dialogue alone will bring about the needed changes in Iran's policy. MIDDLE EAST Was the Netanyahu-Arafat meeting significant? It was a good meeting - an outgrowth of Secretary Albright's trip to the region. The Prime Minister and the Chairman approached each other as partners, and were able to make progress. We hope it marks a new beginning. They agreed that contacts should resume on all levels between the two sides, and that they, themselves, should meet a regular basis. Some are calling for four-party talks along the lines of the Camp David process. What is your reaction? I would not rule out such an approach in the long term, but right now it would not be appropriate. The parties to the peace process have a lot of steps they need to take themselves before we can talk along those lines. What comes next? Any plans for future talks? The interim talks are now intensifying their work on the airport, seaport, safe passage and economic matters. Dennis Ross will be returning to the region later this week. At that time, the two sides will report to him on their progress. He will also continue discussions with them on the other set of issues -- security, a "time out", further redeployments, and permanent status. And later this month, the parties will meet in Washington to negotiate further on these issues. What is your reaction to Mossad's botched attempt on the life of the Hamas leader? Doesn't this undercut our determination to end terrorism? It was an unfortunate set of events. The battle against terrorism is vital, but it is also important to take into account consequences of actions upon others who seek peace. Now we need to focus on how to move forward towards peace - Ross will be in the region resuming talks. Are things back on track now ? Do you think that you can save the peace process? I know that there are still miles to go, but let's look at what we have. -resumption of security cooperation -the Joint Committees have begun meeting again on the interim status issues -and, most importantly, the two parties both favor moving ahead with accelerated permanent status negotiations. That is a long way, and definitely something to work with. This is not an easy process and no one said it would be - the only way forward is through dialogue and a commitment to seek common ground. This is a good sign. Is the settlement issue to big too get around? How are you defining a "time out?" What if Netanyahu won't slow down settlement construction? Secretary of State Albright did an effective job on this when she was in the region, and I can only again reiterate what she said. We find unilateral actions on settlements to be unhelpful and counterproductive. That, however, is not the only obstacle to peace. The Palestinian Authority has an imperative obligation to fight terrorism. Each side must engage in confidence building measures that will help move the peace process in a positive direction. Both sides must see each other as partners if they are to achieve success. IRAN/IRAQ NO FLY ZONE/ USS NIMITZ Are you concerned about Saddam's continuing to flout the no-fly zone? Why did you deploy the USS Nimitz to the region five days ahead of schedule? It would be a mistake for Saddam to flout the international community and violate the Security Council resolutions. He will bear the consequences. We will take appropriate measures to enforce these resolutions. The purpose of the deployment was to enforce the No Fly Zone imposed on Iraq after the Gulf War. BOSNIA The Bosnian Muslims have won the municipal elections in Srebrenica, but will they be able to assume control? Won't SFOR troops have to be brought in? Installing democratically elected leaders in towns where they are now a minority is the next important step in reconciliation. We expect full compliance with Dayton. We'll support those who cooperate -- and make those who don't pay a price. The OSCE will have the primary responsibility, but they can count on continued support from SFOR. What is your reaction to the ten Bosnian Croat indicted war criminals surrender to The Hague? This is a very significant development that we welcome and applaud. It's an important demonstration of Croatian support for Dayton. It's clearly, too, a result of our re-energized Bosnia policies - and the intense efforts my foreign policy team has been engaged in over the last several months. Will the US have to pony up more money to ensure the indictees get the speedy trial they were promised? We have had discussions with them as to how best to provide additional support when it's needed. There is a recent press report that NATO commanders are considering a plan to arrest Karadzic and Mladic, but not until after the parliamentary elections on November 23. Is this true? We continue to remain deeply concerned with the presence of war criminals in Bosnia, including Karadzic. We remain concerned about his potential influence -- in violation of agreements that he not be involved in political life -- and will not be satisfied until he is brought to justice in The Hague. As I have said before, we are considering a full range of options to facilitate delivery of war criminals to The Hague. We continue to press the parties to live up to their obligation to turn over war criminals. We've seen progress -- we worked hard with Croatia to affect the surrenders and welcome and applaud that action. I would also point to the arrest of suspected war criminals in Croatia, and earlier arrest operations in Croatia and Prijedor. There have been several legislative proposals that would cut off funding for US forces in Bosnia next June and would ban aid to countries harboring war criminals. How do you feel about such proposals? Any 'date certain' legislation sends a very bad message to the parties and to our allies about our commitment to the peace. The focus now needs to be on ensuring that Dayton is implemented and that we create a self-sustaining peace. We want to retain the flexibility to provide assistance to those who support Dayton and are implementing it. There seems to be mounting hostility against SFOR. How are you reacting to security threats against SFOR? Do you worry about the safety of our troops? The surest way to protect our forces is for everyone to know that they will deal effectively with every challenge. Protection for our troops always is a priority. Our security posture is appropriate to the situation on the ground now, but we are constantly evaluating it and will adjust it if we need to. We have made clear that any effort to intimidate is unacceptable and SFOR will respond appropriately. All the parties must understand that they should not challenge SFOR. We will hold the parties' leadership responsible for keeping their people under control. They should know we would deal very effectively, very swiftly with a forceful response. We'll do what we have to do to protect our troops. Has the policy changed on SFOR ending its mission in June 1998? The NATO ministers have said that a military presence post-SFOR will be necessary. Progress is being made, but there are still challenges ahead. The international community has a strong stake in success. We need to be involved in Bosnia in some fashion in the foreseeable future - certainly in terms of economic assistance. The SFOR mission will end in June 1998. Whether an international security presence is there after that, and what role the United States would play, has not yet been decided. CHINA PROLIFERATION The US-China summit is approaching -- are you prepared to certify that China has stopped exporting nuclear weapons-related material to countries like Iran and Pakistan? Isn't this an important test of improving our ties with China? China issued its new nuclear export control regulations September 10. We have been pressing China to issue these regulations, and we view their issuance as a positive development, and a necessary element of any decision to certify. We have made substantial progress toward meeting the congressional requirements for certification but we are not there yet. We will be working intensively with China between now and the summit. A final decision will be made closer to the summit, based on the progress achieved. How do you know that China has stopped exporting nuclear related material to Iran and Pakistan? In monitoring recent developments we have no basis to conclude that China has been exporting nuclear-related items in a manner inconsistent with its 1996 commitment not to assist unsafeguarded nuclear facilities. RUSSIA IRAN MISSILE COOPERATION There has been extensive press reporting on Russia-Iran missile cooperation. What is the US doing about this? Will you impose sanctions on Russia? I take these reports very seriously - we have been concerned for some time about Iranian efforts worldwide to acquire missile technology. I discussed this issue with President Yeltsin in Helsinki this Spring and then at the Denver Summit, where we agreed to work together closely. As a result of those talks, Ambassador Frank Wisner and the head of the Russian Space Agency have met in Moscow along with teams of experts from both our governments. This is an effective mechanism to address our concerns, and they will reconvene in about six weeks. We vigorously follow-up on any reports, and, when the facts warrant, we will take what steps are necessary. MARYLAND TEEN What are you doing to get Scheinbein back so he can be tried in Maryland? Secretary Albright has been clear and direct with the Israeli government in saying that he should be brought to justice here in the United States. Our position is unchanged. As you know, prosecutors from Maryland are in Israel discussing the case with the Israeli auuthorities. KIKHIA What is your response to president Mubarak's assertions that we raised the disappearance of Libyan dissident Kikhia to help free an accused Israeli spy or Mubarak's statement that the CIA secretly took Kikhia out of Egypt? We have raised the issue of Kikhia's disappearance with the Egyptian government at the highest level. Egypt has promised to cooperate in the investigation. We have no ulterior motives in this and we look forward to working with Egypt on resolving this issue. KABILA HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES - DROC Human Rights Watch-Africa says it has irrefutable evidence that Kabila's troops killed large numbers of Rwandan refugees, and continue to do so. Will the US respond to this abuse of human rights? I continue to be concerned about past and present reports about human rights abuses in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. I plan to dispatch a delegation as soon as possible to talk to President Kabila and his government about human rights. NOBEL PRIZE TO ANTI LANDMINE GROUP Why haven't you called Jody Williams - she's been complaining that she hasn't been able to talk to you personally about the landmines issue? I congratulate the Campaign for its superb achievement. Together with Princess Diana, Senator Leahy and literally thousands of other international organizations, they have appealed to the collective conscience of the world for an end to the indiscriminate use of anti-personnel landmines. The humanitarian goals of this cause have been both noble and clear: help the victims, remove the minefields, ban the landmines. Even though we differ on the question of signing the treaty that will be signed in Ottawa this December, I strongly support the humanitarian goals of the Campaign. That is why we lead the world in demining efforts -- spending more than the rest of the world combined. And, as I announced last month, this is a program we now intend to expand by about 25%, both in dollars spent and countries where we have active demining training programs. That is why we will, as I directed last month, complete our efforts to field alternatives to all U.S. APLs by 2006. And that is why we will continue to lead the way in the Conference on Disarmament to try to negotiate a truly universal and global ban to complement the treaty that will be signed by about half the nations of the world in Ottawa in December. President Yeltsin announced that Russia will sign the Ottawa Treaty, doesn't that put more pressure on the United States? Whether Russia intends to sign in December, or at some undetermined future date, I am delighted that President Yeltsin wants to become more proactive in joining us all in responding more quickly and assertively to this terrible global crisis. (N.B Japan is now hinting that it may also sign the Ottawa treaty, citing public opinion and the work of the Nobel Prize winners) THREATS FROM GROUPS ON SEC STATE TERRORISM LIST A militant Egyptian Islamic group, and other organizations on the State Department's terrorist organization list, have threatened to attack U.S. citizens in the Middle East. In addition, Iran pledged its continued support for Hizbollah after it appeared on the list. How do you respond to these statements? We knew this step would arouse the ire of such organizations - but the list is important, and I won't be deterred by threats from these groups. With respect to the statement by the Iranian Foreign Minister, I am concerned about Hizbollah's terrorist wing and its terrorist activities, including here in Latin America, and we urge Iran to end its ties and to cease providing support for these kinds of activities. NATO COST DEBATE There are so many differing assessments of the cost of NATO enlargement, and Jesse Helms is warning that unless Europe pays its fair share we may never see Senate approval? How will you get all this confusion sorted out and expansion approved? NATO is now conducting studies on the military requirements and the resurce implications of enlargement. They should be ready for the December review by NATO ministers when they meet. It is important that the assessment is credible. I expect our allies to live up to the commitments they made in Madrid. The cost of enlargement should be shared fairly - these are costs that are both real and manageable, and our allies are expected to provide the necessary resources. NATO expansion is in our strategic interest, and, compared to the cost of conflict, the costs of extending our security guarantees is very modest. MC CAFFREY COMMENT ON COLOMBIAN MARXISTS Barry McCaffrey said today that the United States would help Colombia fight Marxist guerillas. What does this mean for US policy - will we help Colombia fight the insurgency? We have long known of the links between Colombia's narcotraffickers and the guerillas. The traffickers rely on some guerilla fronts for protection and security, while the guerillas are funding themselves in part with narcodollars to fuel their armed insurgency against the government. Our number one priority remains helping Colombia fight narcotrafficking through assistance to Colombia's security forces to interdict and eradicate illegal narcotics. We have recently stepped up these counter drug efforts in light of increasing evidence of a nexus between narcotraffickers and guerillas. We have not changed our policy - we do not intend to provide counterinsurgency assistance to Colombia. RENEWED KURDISH FIGHTING IN IRAQ Fighting has broken out again between the rival Iraqi Kurdish groups, apparently violating the NATO sponsored ceasefire. What will the US do if Saddam again sends his troops to the north? We've been working to keep the ceasefire between them, and we will continue to do so. 4 THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN 10-30-97 From your days as a Peace Corps volunteer in Ecuador to your fine work here as Charge, your life- long commitment to public service and to strengthening America's friendship with Latin America reflect the best traditions of our nation's Foreign Service. THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN 10-30-97 THE UNITED STATES-BRAZIL PARTNERSHIP FOR EDUCATION 1. We the Presidents of the United States and Brazil recognize that a new reality is reshaping the world and that our citizens must be prepared to meet the challenges of a globalized world in the 21st century. Education is the key to the future. We recognize that working together we will harness inevitable change to the benefit of families in our countries. 2. Literacy and a first-class educational foundation are critical determinants to the well- being of our citizens, the strength of our economies, and preserving the values we as democratically-elected leaders hold dear. 3. Skilled and educated people are the foundations of strong democracies and market economies. We must, therefore, ask more of our educational systems than ever before. Our governments have similar initiatives promoting the development of modern information infrastructures that will facilitate economic growth and will be the foundation of new ways to teach and learn. Our students must be able to compete in a new and constantly-changing job market. This requires access to life-long learning programs and the ability to participate in and benefit from varied cultures outside our borders; and process and organize more and disparate information than ever before. Education is needed to participate actively and knowledgeably in democratic, plural and diverse societies. 4. The democracies of our hemisphere, which will take part in the next Summit of the Americas to be held next April in Santiago, agree that education must be a central element in our shared agenda. Bearing in mind the urgency of prompt, effective action, as a top priority we have separately launched, within our respective countries, new initiatives to raise the quality of education, particularly in the primary and secondary levels. 5. And together, today, we hereby establish the United States-Brazil Partnership for Education. Expanding exchanges, upgrading standards, enhancing teacher training, increasing participation by the family, community and business as well as incorporating new technology underpin our partnership. Cooperation in the Development and Use of Technologies in Education 6. New technologies make possible the broad dissemination of information and permit new teaching methods and practices such as distance learning and the use of computers. In addition, students must also master new technologies in preparation for a changing workplace and take part in economic development. We will take advantage of technologies such as the Internet to broaden cultural and language contacts for our students and teachers. We will jointly test and evaluate existing technologies, and facilitate development of appropriate new technologies, while engaging the private sector to assist with their introduction into the classroom. Ensuring that Every Child Learns Through Educational Standards, Assessments, and Indicators 7. Evaluating the performance of educational systems requires a clear definition of what schools should teach and what students are expected to know, as well as effective tools for measuring progress. Our governments will each establish standards for student performance in key subjects at appropriate levels, as well as the means to measure them. We will share experiences and information regarding progress on a continuous basis. Strengthening Preparation and Professional Development of Teachers and School Managers 8. Excellent schools require excellent teachers and managers. We will seek to have qualified, dedicated teachers in all classrooms, at all grades. To support this goal, we will exchange experiences and evaluate alternative models for teacher preparation and training for school management officials. We will especially consider ways to improve training for science teachers of scientific disciplines at the primary and secondary levels. Increasing Educational Exchanges Between the United States and Brazil 9. Already sharing a wide array of public and private educational exchange programs, the United States and Brazil will seek to expand exchanges at all levels, focusing on the priorities in this declaration. We will utilize existing and new mechanisms to establish a student exchange program for university students in mutually agreed areas such as engineering and technology. We will also consider a program of exchanges for language teachers to strengthen language skills and cultural ties between our countries. To assist private programs, we will explore methods for linking institutions to promote mutual recognition of educational credits. Enhancing Family, Community, and Business Involvement in Education 10. Opportunities for learning extend beyond the formal classroom. Parents, family members, employers, employees, older students, and volunteers can effectively participate in the education of children, especially in literacy enhancement. We re- affirm that the private sector is partner in education and will promote its involvement in such areas as combatting illiteracy and student dropout rates and enhancing school administration and overall school development Implementing the Partnership 11. Finally, to ensure our partnership is vigorously implemented, we hereby establish the Education Partnership Implementation Commission (EPIC). Through regular meetings, EPIC will monitor implementation of actions outlined in the annex to the Memorandum of Understanding to which our governments subscribe today, as well as periodically formulate new actions. In furtherance of the precepts set forth in this Declaration, EPIC will also seek participation of the private sector and members of the public in implementation of this agreement. Working together, we will reinforce our common resolve, deepen our bonds of friendship, and prepare our children for the coming century. THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN 10-30-97 THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary (San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina) For Immediate Release October 18, 1997 FACT SHEET UNITED STATES-ARGENTINA COOPERATION ON THE ENVIRONMENT Against the backdrop of the Andes mountains in the Nahuel Huapi National Park, President Clinton and President Menem today agreed that the United States and Argentina will work together to meet the challenge of safeguarding the planet for future generations. To that end, they issued a Presidential Declaration of Bariloche establishing cooperation in four areas: Climate Change: Both Presidents highlighted the importance of addressing the critical problem of global warming and announced agreement on two elements that are essential to a meaningful solution: Developing Country Commitments: Both Presidents affirmed that the global nature of the climate change challenge demands a global solution. To that end, they agreed that developing countries must participate meaningfully in the solution, including through emissions limits for developing countries. Joint Implementation for Credit: "Joint implementation" encourages companies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions cost effectively through international partnerships. Typically, a company from one country helps a company from another with a project that either reduces emissions (e.g., by improving energy efficiency) or removes emissions from the atmosphere (e.g., by planting trees) and in return receive credit for their reductions. This provides companies with incentives to reduce emissions in cost-effective ways by giving them credits for qualifying reductions around the world. It creates win- win partnerships encouraging the dissemination of new environmental and energy technologies in developing countries. In Buenos Aires, the United States and Argentina signed a bilateral agreement providing a framework for joint implementation projects. The U.S Initiative on Joint Implementation (USIJI) has approved 26 projects in eleven countries to date and there are several more proposals in the pipeline. 2 Based on an agreement signed two years ago, there are now over 10 approved projects in Central America, ranging from wind power to reforestation of degraded farmlands. Earlier this week, the Government of Paraguay accepted a joint implementation partnership between U.S. -based Tucson Electric and Colorado Public Service subsidiary, e prime, and Argentina-based Carlos Casado, S.A., to protect the critically endangered, biologically rich Laguna Tigre Forest in Paraguay. El Paso Energy of Texas has partnered with the Argentine company, CAPEX, S.A., to retrofit a natural gas energy plant to reduce emissions. They plan to submit this project to the USIJI and the Argentine government for approval. Space Cooperation Agreement: NASA and the Argentine space agency, CONAE, agreed to collaborate on the launch of two Argentine satellites, which will assist in environmental monitoring, from NASA rockets. The launch of these satellites builds on cooperation inaugurated in 1991 - the first such space cooperation agreement in Latin America - following Argentina's decision to devote its aerospace capabilities to civilian purposes. Tracking Whales: In July, 1998, the SAC-A Argentine satellite will be launched from the Space Shuttle with equipment enabling it to track endangered whale population migrations in the southern hemisphere. Monitoring Pollution: The SAC-C satellite will be launched in 1999 to monitor forest inventory, agricultural production patterns, desertification in Patagonia, air and water pollution, and marine coastal areas. National Parks Cooperation Agreement: The U.S. National Park Service and the Argentine National Parks Administration launched a joint effort to protect national parks and promote increased public environmental awareness. Today's agreement establishes a five-year program of technical exchange and cooperation in park management, including in personnel training and park visitor education and information. GLOBE Program: The Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment (GLOBE) program will expand to include an Argentine school in the Antarctica, extending the program to a new continent. GLOBE is a U.S.-led international program that encourages young people to engage in scientific research on the environment and post their findings on the Internet. GLOBE has more than 4,000 participating schools in over 50 countries. PRESIDENT HAS SEEM 10-20-97 SCENESETTER: MEETING WITH CONGRESSIONAL LEADERS Brazil's Congress has been meeting since April 1960 -- except for a short period during the military government -- in landmark buildings designed by Oscar Niemeyer. City planner Lucio Costa symbolically located the Congress between the Executive and Judicial branches on the Plaza of the Three Powers. Brazil is a federal republic with 26 states (plus the Federal District of Brasilia). 81 senators, three from each state including the federal district, are popularly elected for eight- year terms. The 513 representatives, also popularly elected, serve for four years. There are fifteen parties represented in Congress. You will be escorted to the door of the "Salao Negro" (Black HRC Reception Hall), where you will be joined by Antonio Carlos Magalhaes, President of the Senate (and of the Congress), and AUAHIA) 4U400R Michel Temer, President of the Chamber of Deputies. They will lead you to the "Salao Nobre" (Noble Reception Hall), where the Senate keeps a small collection of historical artifacts preserved from its previous location in Rio. PHOTOCOP WJC HANDWRITING CLINTON LIBRARY PHOTOCOPY