    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1996, Book II)]
    [September 25, 1996]
    [Page 1669]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Signing Legislation on Most-Favored-Nation Trade Status for
    Cambodia
    September 25, 1996

        Today I am pleased to sign into law H.R. 1642, a bill to extend
    most-favored-nation (MFN) status to Cambodia after a bilateral trade
    agreement between the United States and Cambodia has entered into force.
        This legislation is an important milestone in U.S.-Cambodian
    relations. The United States was a major supporter of the United Nations
    Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC), a peacekeeping success that
    led to free and fair elections in 1993 and the establishment of the
    Royal Government of Cambodia. The United States supports efforts in
    Cambodia to strengthen democratic institutions, promote human rights,
    and foster economic development.
        Most-favored-nation status will make it possible for Cambodia's
    private sector to realize its full development potential and will
    further improve the access American firms enjoy in Cambodia. United
    States export financing programs now will be able to go forward to the
    extent possible under the criteria established by relevant governing
    statutes. MFN will open the door to significant future opportunities as
    Cambodia seeks to join the Association of South East Asian Nations
    (ASEAN) and takes steps to integrate itself into the dynamic regional
    economy of Southeast Asia.
        My approval of this legislation reflects the strong U.S. support for
    the people of Cambodia in their efforts to overcome a tragic past and
    establish a democracy based on human rights and market economy reforms.
        While I recognize that the process of democratization and
    development in Cambodia has not been easy, I believe MFN status will
    make an important contribution to achieving our policy goals for a
    peaceful, prosperous, and free Cambodia. I am confident that with the
    support of the international community, Cambodia will continue to make
    progress and strengthen its efforts at economic reform and greater
    protection of human rights.

                                                          William J. Clinton

    The White House,

    September 25, 1996.

    Note: H.R. 1642, approved September 25, was assigned Public Law No. 104-
    203.