Statement by Press Secretary Fitzwater on the President's Meeting in New York City With Prime Minister Salim al-Huss of Lebanon

The President met with the Prime Minister of Lebanon, Salim al-Huss, at 5 p.m. The President assured the Prime Minister of continued U.S. support for the Government of Lebanon. He said the United States supports Lebanon's independence, unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. The President also advised the Prime Minister that the United States seeks the withdrawal of all foreign forces from Lebanon. The President emphasized that the U.S. contacts with Syria would in no way be detrimental to Lebanon.

The two leaders discussed the situation in the Persian Gulf at some length.

The President raised the issue of American hostages in Lebanon, pointing out that we continue to seek all information that could be helpful in securing the release of our hostages. The Prime Minister assured the President that he would provide any information that might possibly be helpful in securing their release.