[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 36, Number 10 (Monday, March 13, 2000)]
[Pages 473-474]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on the Sale of F-16 Aircraft to the United Arab Emirates

March 5, 2000

    I welcome the news that the negotiation for the sale of F-16 
aircraft to the United

[[Page 474]]

Arab Emirates has been successfully concluded and that the agreement has 
been signed. Completion of this sale is another significant step in the 
strategic relationship between the United States and the United Arab 
Emirates and reflects the importance we attach to strengthen the 
defensive capability of one of our most important friends in the Gulf. 
This sale is also important for the viability of our defense industrial 
base and will benefit American workers. I want to personally thank 
President bin Zayid for his commitment to making this aircraft sale a 
reality.