    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1999, Book I)]
    [February 9, 1999]
    [Page 183]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Nomination of Richard C. Holbrooke To Be Ambassador to the United Nations
    February 9, 1999

        I will soon send to the Senate my nomination of Richard C. Holbrooke
    to be the next United States Ambassador to the United Nations.
        From building a lasting peace in Bosnia to searching for a political
    settlement in Kosovo to finding a workable solution in Cyprus, Richard
    C. Holbrooke's intellect, vigor, and diplomatic skills have
    significantly advanced the values and interests of the American people.
        At a time when international crises, from Iraq to Kosovo, demand the
    leadership of the United States and the United Nations, it is essential
    that we have a strong and capable diplomat like Richard C. Holbrooke as
    our U.N. Ambassador. He is extraordinarily well qualified for this vital
    position, and I look forward to the Senate's timely consideration of his
    nomination.