[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1992-1993, Book II)]
[December 14, 1992]
[Pages 2188-2189]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Letter to Congressional Leaders on Continuation of the National 
Emergency With Respect to Libya
December 14, 1992

Dear Mr. Speaker:  (Dear Mr. President:)
    Section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) 
provides for the automatic termination of a national emergency unless, 
prior to the anniversary date of its declaration, the President 
publishes in the Federal Register and transmits to the Congress a notice 
stating that the emergency is to continue in effect beyond the 
anniversary date. In accordance with this provision, I have sent the 
enclosed notice, stating that the Libyan emergency is to continue in 
effect beyond January 7, 1993, to the Federal Register for publication.
    The crisis between the United States and Libya that led to the 
declaration on January 7, 1986, of a national emergency has not been 
resolved. The Government of Libya continues to use and support 
international terrorism, as evidenced by its involvement in the 
destruction of Pan Am Flight 103, in violation of international law and 
minimum standards of human behavior. Such Libyan actions and policies 
pose a continuing unusual and extraordinary threat to the national 
security and vital foreign policy interests of the United States. For 
these reasons, I have determined that it is necessary to maintain in 
force the broad authorities necessary to apply economic pressure to the 
Government of Libya to reduce its ability to support international 
terrorism.
    Sincerely,

                                                             George Bush

                    Note: Identical letters were sent to Thomas S. 
                        Foley, Speaker of the House of Represent-

[[Page 2189]]

                        atives, and Dan Quayle, President of the Senate. 
                        This letter was released by the Office of the 
                        Press Secretary on December 15.