[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 33, Number 7 (Monday, February 17, 1997)]
[Page 189]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on the Killing of a British Soldier in Northern Ireland

February 13, 1997

    I am grieved and outraged by the callous killing of a British 
soldier in Northern Ireland yesterday. The First Lady and I extend our 
deepest sympathy to the soldier's family and to the British Government 
and people on the loss of this young man. We wish the authorities 
success in bringing the murderers swiftly to justice.
    All those who care about the future of Northern Ireland must join me 
in condemning this cowardly crime. I remain convinced that the people of 
both of Northern Ireland's traditions want to take the path of peace and 
reconciliation, not hatred and violence.
    The Belfast talks chaired by Senator Mitchell continue to have my 
full support. I urge all those taking part, who share a commitment to 
democratic values, to move as rapidly as possible into substantive 
negotiation about the future of Northern Ireland.
    The loyalists and their leaders have shown great courage and 
restraint in not allowing themselves to be drawn into an escalating 
spiral of violence. I urge them to remain steadfast.