[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 36, Number 14 (Monday, April 10, 2000)]
[Page 704]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Remarks on Arrival in San Jose, California, and an Exchange With 
Reporters

April 2, 2000

Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi of Japan

    The President. I just wanted to say that I have heard today the sad 
news that Prime Minister Obuchi has been hospitalized with a stroke. He 
has been a good friend to me personally, a good friend of the United 
States. And he has been a tireless worker to restore the Japanese 
economy and to bring Asia back from its financial crisis.
    And I just wanted to say that the thoughts and prayers of the 
American people are with him, his family, and the people of Japan. We 
hope for a speedy recovery. And in the meanwhile, we will work with 
Acting Prime Minister Aoki to maintain the strong relationship we enjoy.
    But I think Prime Minister Obuchi is a very good man, and I--it's 
sad news for all of us here in America, but we're pulling for his 
recovery, and we will--we will keep our prayers there.
    Thank you very much.
    Q. What are you hearing about--about how he is?
    The President. Nothing. I have tried to get more information, but 
all I know is that he's hospitalized, and the condition was serious 
enough to appoint an acting Prime Minister. That may or may not mean 
anything, you know. My guess is that they'll have to wait a while and 
assess----

2000 Elections

    Q. Mr. President, did you hear--did you hear Mr. Lazio's comments 
today indicating he might get into the New York Senate race?
    The President. No, I have no knowledge of that.
    Thanks.

Note: The President spoke at 9:15 p.m. at Moffett Field. In his remarks, 
he referred to Acting Prime Minister Mikio Aoki of Japan. A tape was not 
available for verification of the content of these remarks.