Statement by Press Secretary Fitzwater on the President's Telephone Conversation With President Gorbachev

President Bush spoke by telephone this afternoon with President Gorbachev concerning events in the Soviet Union and the Republics. The nearly 30-minute conversation ranged over several issues including the economy, the status of the Commonwealth effort, the safety of nuclear weapons, and other issues. President Gorbachev assured President Bush that the command and control system for nuclear weapons remains secure. President Bush had received similar assurances from President Yeltsin in a telephone call at 10:50 a.m. this morning.

President Bush assured both Presidents of support for humanitarian and medical needs. He summarized the United States program of support, including the loan guarantees, direct aid, and financial assistance in the elimination of nuclear weapons. President Bush emphasized once again our general support for democratic and economic reforms.