[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 34, Number 22 (Monday, June 1, 1998)]
[Pages 958-959]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on the Passage of the Northern Ireland Peace Accord Referendum

May 23, 1998

    Today history truly joined with hope in Ireland as the people of 
Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic cast their ballots decisively in 
favor of the April 10 peace accord and a new political arrangement for 
Northern Ireland. I join all Americans in congratulating the people of 
Northern Ireland and

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the Republic of Ireland for seizing this unique opportunity for a 
lasting peace.
    I pledge that my administration will work with Northern Ireland's 
leaders as they seek to transform the promise of the accord into a 
reality, with new democratic institutions and new economic opportunities 
for all of Northern Ireland's people. Working through the International 
Fund for Ireland and the private sector, we will help the people seize 
the opportunities that peace will bring to attract new investment to 
create new factories, workplaces, and jobs, and establish new centers of 
learning to prepare for the 21st century.
    Today's vote is a beacon to peoples around the globe in places where 
strife prevails and peace seems remote. You have set an example for the 
world and established a strong foundation for a future of lasting peace.