    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1994, Book II)]
    [October 17, 1994]
    [Pages 1783-1784]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks and an Exchange With Reporters on the Israel-Jordan
    Peace Treaty at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland
    October 17, 1994

        The President. I'm delighted by the announcement from Amman today
    that King Hussein and Prime Minister Rabin have reached agreement on the
    text of an Israel-Jordan peace treaty. These two visionary leaders today
    resolved that their nations should henceforth live in peace and as good
    neighbors.
        This was an extraordinary achievement; it must be welcomed by the
    friends of peace all around the world. At a time when hatred and
    extremism and threatening behaviors still stalk the Middle East, this
    agreement reminds us that moderation and reason are prevailing, that
    nations can put conflict behind them, that courageous statesmen can lead
    their people to peace.
        On behalf of the United States and all the American people, I
    congratulate Prime Minister Rabin and King Hussein and, even more, the
    people of Israel and the people of Jordan. Together they are embarking
    on a journey, a journey of peace that will bring a bright future for
    generations to come. The United States has stood by them and worked with
    them, and we will stand by them every step of the way.
        Thank you very much.
        Q. Are you going to the Middle East, sir, if a peace treaty is
    signed there?
        The President. I have nothing to say about that yet.
        Q. Does it sound a good omen for Syria, the talks with Syria?
        The President. I think it is very good. We're continuing to work
    there, and we're encouraged.

    [[Page 1784]]

    We just have to keep working. We have to keep working until it's all
    done.
        Thank you.

    Note: The President spoke at 8:50 a.m., prior to his departure for
    Albuquerque, NM.