    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1994, Book II)]
    [October 19, 1994]
    [Page 1803]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    [[Page 1803]]

    Statement on Maritime Legislation
    October 19, 1994

        The American maritime industry plays an important role in our
    Nation's economy and security. Under Secretary Pena's leadership, we
    have made significant progress implementing a program that enhances the
    competitiveness of American shipyards in the international commercial
    market. But our work is not complete.
        Congress still must act to ensure a maritime presence in the United
    States' vast international trade. It must act to ensure that a fleet of
    U.S.-flag merchant ships, crewed by skilled American seafarers, stands
    ready to serve our country's economic and military sealift needs. The
    administration looks forward to working with the next Congress to enact
    legislation that achieves these important goals.