[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (2000-2001, Book III)]
[December 14, 2000]
[Page 2712]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Statement on the Release of Edmond Pope
December 14, 2000

    I welcome today's release of Edmond Pope after 8 months of detention 
in Russia and appreciate President Putin's 
decision to pardon Mr. Pope.
    Mr. Pope's ordeal was unjustified. It is fortunate that humanitarian 
considerations prevailed in the end.
    I admire the impressive support Mr. Pope received from his wife and 
family and from Congressman John Peterson 
of Pennsylvania and other Members of Congress. I commend their tireless 
efforts on his behalf.