[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1991, Book I)]
[January 1, 1991]
[Page 1]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]






[[Page 1]]


New Year's Message to the People of the Soviet Union
January 1, 1991

    It's a great pleasure to wish President and Mrs. Gorbachev and all 
the peoples of the Soviet Union a happy and healthy New Year. In your 
country and in mine, the start of a New Year is a good time to reflect 
on the many achievements of the past and to look ahead with hope.
    This year our two countries, as well as those around the world, have 
much to be grateful for--first and foremost, the improved and 
strengthened relations between the United States and the Soviet Union. 
Our countries have made great progress, particularly in important 
political and arms control areas. And we've taken a common approach to a 
new challenge in the name of stability and peace. I applaud--the world 
applauds--the decisive action of the Soviet Union in strongly opposing 
Saddam Hussein's brutal aggression in the Gulf.
    But just as important as these new areas of cooperation between our 
two nations are the increased contacts between the Americans and Soviet 
peoples. Tens of thousands of Soviets have had contact with Americans 
now, and the numbers are growing. Barbara and I are thrilled to see our 
two peoples meeting and getting to know one another as friendly 
neighbors.
    On this New Year's Day, as you celebrate with your friends and 
family, I also want to applaud the Soviet Union for the important steps 
you've taken in building a new society, for the determination with which 
you are pressing forward with difficult political and economic reforms. 
It's an arduous journey, but one well worth making, for it is a path 
that leads to a brighter future for your nation.
    The American people look with hope to the year ahead. Our two 
nations have set out on a new course, making a better life for both our 
peoples and a better world of peace and understanding. On behalf of the 
American people, I wish President Gorbachev and all the wonderful people 
of the Soviet Union a happy, prosperous New Year.

                    Note: This message was recorded on December 19, 
                        1990, in Room 459 of the Old Executive Office 
                        Building. It was televised in the Soviet Union 
                        on January 1. In his message, President Bush 
                        referred to President Saddam Hussein of Iraq. A 
                        tape was not available for verification of the 
                        content of this message.