Statement by Press Secretary Fitzwater on President Bush's Meeting With President Carlos Saul Menem of Argentina

President Bush met with President Menem of Argentina in the Oval Office for approximately 45 minutes. President Bush noted President Menem's determination in dealing with Argentina's economic crisis and stated U.S. support for his program. They discussed the Government of Argentina's overtures to normalize relations with the United Kingdom. President Bush stated that the U.S. is pleased that two of our friends are engaged in a direct dialog and expressed the hope that this process will lead to full normalization of relations in the near future.

The two Presidents discussed the drug problem and underscored a mutual desire in combating the drug scourge. They also discussed the situation in Panama and the urgent need for a return to full democracy. President Bush noted that the U.S. shares with the people of Argentina a strong desire for freedom and democracy and expressed the hope that this visit will strengthen even further the close bond between our two countries.