THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release March 27, 1996

STATEMENT BY THE PRESS SECRETARY

U.S., Japan Reach Agreement on Air Cargo Services

The United States and Japan have agreed on the elements of an all-cargo air services arrangement to provide significant new opportunities to carriers from both countries. The arrangement is the culmination of talks that began last fall following discussions between President Clinton and former Prime Minister Murayama on the need for liberalized aviation services between the two countries.

The arrangement, which is expected to be formally concluded in mid-April, builds upon existing treaty rights for U.S. and Japanese carriers. The United States has consistently indicated its determination to expand opportunities for Japanese and American carriers. It has also consistently indicated that existing rights must be respected.

Civil aviation was one of a number of economic issues raised by the President during his recent meeting with Prime Minister Hashimoto in Santa Monica, California.

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