    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (2000, Book I)]
    [April 6, 2000]
    [Page 643]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Death of Former Tunisian President Habib
    Bourguiba
    April 6, 2000

        Hillary and I are saddened by the death of former Tunisian President
    Habib Bourguiba. On behalf of the American people, I want to extend our
    heartfelt condolences to President Bourguiba's family and to the
    Tunisian people.
        President Bourguiba was a historic leader, a pioneer in Tunisia's
    struggle for independence and for social and economic progress. He also
    played a courageous role in efforts to advance peace in the Middle East.
    He leaves behind a nation that can be proud of its social achievements,
    particularly the steps it has taken to advance the status of women, and
    a nation poised to take on the critical challenges of deepening
    democracy and respect for human rights--and building a better future for
    all Tunisians.