    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (1999, Book II)]
    [October 26, 1999]
    [Page 1885]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Senate Action on Proposed Legislation To Provide Assistance
    to African Nations
    October 26, 1999

        I applaud the strong, bipartisan vote in the Senate to move forward
    with consideration of the African growth and opportunity act. This
    historic legislation will help build a partnership that will strengthen
    economic and political ties, increase trade, and boost economic growth
    and opportunity in both the United States and Africa. It will strengthen
    the relationship between our Nation and a continent entering a new era
    of democracy and economic progress. I urge Congress to pass this
    legislation this year.