    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1996, Book II)]
    [July 3, 1996]
    [Pages 1070-1071]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Russian Presidential Election
    July 3, 1996

        As we wait to receive the final results of the Russian elections,
    and as our Nation prepares to celebrate our own freedom and
    independence, I want to recognize the historic significance of what we
    have seen in Russia today.
        From Vladivostok to Kaliningrad, tens of millions of Russians
    returned to the polls to complete the process of selecting their
    President. The Russian people can take real pride in this extraordinary
    achievement. After centuries of imperial rule and decades of Communist
    oppression, they have asserted their right to have a voice in the
    decisions that affect their lives. This election process shows just how
    far Russia's political reform has come over the last 5 years.

    [[Page 1071]]

        The American people can take pride as well in our steady support for
    Russia's democratic reform. As the results are counted, we will shortly
    learn the choice of the Russian people. But one thing is clear: Today
    was a triumph for democracy in Russia.