    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (1999, Book II)]
    [September 21, 1999]
    [Pages 1567-1568]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at a Luncheon Hosted by United Nations Secretary-General Kofi
    Annan in New York City
    September 21, 1999

        Mr. Secretary-General, distinguished leaders: Tomorrow we will be
    exactly 100 days away from the beginning of the new millennium. The
    calendar tells us how old the world is, but we are thinking about
    something fresh, something new. And it is altogether fitting that we
    should be here at the United Nations, which is a very young attempt by
    the world to make ourselves better and to make our children's future
    brighter.
        I would like to say how deeply pleased I am that the United Nations
    is being led today by a man of the ability and character of the
    Secretary-General. He continues to speak and act with authority. He said
    recently that the aim of the U.N. Charter is to protect individual human
    beings, not to protect those who abuse them. He reminded us that even in
    these times of phenomenal prosperity, half of all humanity subsists on
    less than $3 a day.
        So, Mr. Secretary-General, I thank you for your leadership and your
    direction.
        Let me say that I'm thinking, myself, also a lot about the future.
    And I plan to be, at least part of the time, a future resident of New
    York. Now, when I move here, I will be able to complain about all the
    traffic jams around the U.N.--[laughter]--and all those important people
    who keep me from getting to my appointed rounds. If I get very upset, I
    may even write a letter to my United States Senator. [Laughter]
        But let me say, again, in all candor, the United States is humbled
    and honored to host the United Nations. We are honored to be a part of
    your leadership for peace in East Timor

    [[Page 1568]]

    and in so many other places. And we look forward to going into a new
    century, to a new millennium, to a new era, with your leadership.
        Ladies and gentlemen, I ask you to join me in a toast to the
    Secretary-General and the United Nations.

    Note: The President spoke at 1:42 p.m. in the North Delegates Lounge at
    the United Nations. The transcript released by the Office of the Press
    Secretary also included the remarks of Secretary-General Annan.