[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1992, Book I)]
[February 19, 1992]
[Page 284]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



[[Page 284]]

Statement by Press Secretary Fitzwater on Establishment of Diplomatic 
Relations With Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan

February 19, 1992
    The President has decided that the United States will take immediate 
steps to establish diplomatic relations with Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, 
Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The United States had recognized their 
independence on December 25, 1991. Following Secretary Baker's recent 
visit to these countries, the President believes U.S. interests will be 
best served by having diplomatic ties to their Governments. Secretary 
Baker conducted detailed discussions with the leaders of the four 
countries on the political, economic, and security principles of most 
importance to the United States. The depth, extent, and richness of U.S. 
relations with each of these countries will depend on their commitment 
to these principles.
    With this step, and yesterday's establishment of diplomatic 
relations with Moldova, the United States now has diplomatic relations 
with 11 of the 12 former Soviet Republics. The United States does not 
intend or seek to isolate the people of Georgia, as Secretary Baker said 
in Moscow. But, at this time, the United States is not in a position to 
establish diplomatic relations with Georgia.
    The United States will open embassies in these countries by March 
15. In addition, the U.S. will support their membership in relevant 
international organizations, including the International Monetary Fund 
and World Bank.