This is historical material, "frozen in time." The web site is no longer updated and links to external web sites and some internal pages will not work.

THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release September 21, 1994

STATEMENT BY THE PRESS SECRETARY

Today, Vice President Al Gore met at the White House with John Hume, leader of the Social Democratic and Labor Party of Northern Ireland. President Clinton joined part of the meeting and underscored his deep admiration for the role Mr. Hume has played in promoting peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland. The President and Vice President commended, in particular, his role in pressing for an end to the violence in Northern Ireland. Mr. Hume continued his discussions in a follow-on meeting with National Security Advisor Anthony Lake.

The President, Vice President and Mr. Lake discussed with Mr. Hume the recent developments in Northern Ireland, including the cease-fire by the IRA and efforts to broaden the political process and achieve a negotiated end to the conflict. They agreed on the importance of strengthening the level of trust and confidence between and among the traditions of Northern Ireland and discussed how the United States could contribute to efforts to create jobs and spur economic growth in the region. The President and Vice President reiterated the willingness of the United States to assist in the efforts to achieve peace and reconciliation, and to keep closely in touch with Mr. Hume.

# # #