[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (2000-2001, Book III)]
[November 15, 2000]
[Page 2537]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Exchange With Reporters Prior to Discussions With President




Vladimir Putin of Russia in Bandar Seri 
Begawan
November 15, 2000

2000 Presidential Election

    Q. President Clinton, any comment on the U.S. election?
    President Clinton. Yes, let him talk about it. [Laughter]
    President Putin. We're interested, but with respect to the feelings 
of the American people, are waiting for the outcomes.

Russia-U.S. Relations

[At this point, a question was asked in Russian, and a translation was 
not provided.]

    President Putin. President Clinton, during the term of his 
Presidency, has caused a breakthrough in the U.S.-Russian relations. And 
we expect this torch to be given to whoever will be the successor.

2000 Presidential Election

    Q. Mr. President, how are you going to explain what's going on back 
home to Mr. Putin and other foreign leaders?
    President Clinton. Well, I think it's pretty clear that no one knows 
yet who won the election. There are recounts in progress, and there will 
be a full accounting according to an accepted legal process in America. 
We have plenty of time. There's nothing to worry about.
    I think other leaders should have the same reaction the American 
people have about it. I think they are pretty relaxed about it now. 
They're going to let the process play out. Both sides are certainly very 
well represented, and they'll argue their points, and we'll see how it 
works.

Note: The exchange began at 1:10 p.m. at the Assara Guest House. A tape 
was not available for verification of the content of this exchange.