[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.