    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1991, Book I)]
    [June 24, 1991]
    [Page 716]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement by Press Secretary Fitzwater on the President's Meeting With
    Sadako Ogata, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
    June 24, 1991

        President Bush met today with Mrs. Sadako Ogata, the United Nations
    High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). They discussed refugee issues
    worldwide, with special emphasis on the Horn of Africa and the situation
    in Iraq. They agreed on the importance of a rapid and comprehensive
    response to humanitarian emergencies. The President underscored the
    strong and continuing U.S. support for UNHCR and wished Mrs. Ogata well
    in her new position as High Commissioner.
        The United States will contribute immediately an additional $5
    million in refugee program funds to meet the emergency needs of refugees
    and displaced persons in the Horn of Africa. This brings total U.S.
    support for refugee assistance activities in the Horn of Africa for
    fiscal year 1991 to $51.3 million, including recent provision of $18
    million in Food for Peace food and 3.6 million Meals Ready to Eat
    (MRE's) valued at $15.3 million.
        The United States is prepared to provide additional assistance as
    may be required.