    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (1999, Book II)]
    [July 23, 1999]
    [Page 1305]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Death of King Hassan II of
    Morocco
    July 23, 1999

        Hillary and I were deeply saddened to learn that His Majesty King
    Hassan II of Morocco has passed away. The prayers of all Americans go
    out to the royal family and the people of Morocco.
        Over his 38-year reign, King Hassan II demonstrated time and again
    his leadership, his courage, and his willingness to embrace change. He
    worked tirelessly to promote the welfare of his people, and in recent
    years he took important steps to deepen freedom in his country.
        He offered wise counsel to every U.S. President since John F.
    Kennedy. He worked to break down barriers among the peoples of the
    Middle East, bravely opening a dialog with Israel, helping to arrange
    President Sadat's historic journey to Jerusalem, seeking greater
    tolerance and stability across the region.
        Hillary had the honor of being
    his guest just a few months ago. We will never forget his extraordinary
    hospitality nor the many times he stood shoulder to shoulder with the
    United States.
        King Sidi Mohammed and the Moroccan
    people can continue to count on the support of the United States. To
    King Sidi Mohammed, to the rest of the royal family, and to the people
    of Morocco, Hillary and I send our heartfelt condolences.
        The Middle East has lost one of its greatest peacemakers. In his
    honor, we must rededicate ourselves to fulfilling his vision: a just and
    lasting peace for all the Middle East's children.