    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 37, Number 51 (Monday, December 24, 2001)]
    [Page 1820]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Statement on Signing the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act of
    2001

    December 21, 2001

        Today I have signed into law S. 494, the ``Zimbabwe Democracy and
    Economic Recovery Act of 2001.'' This Act symbolizes the clear
    bipartisan resolve in the United States to promoting human rights, good
    governance, and economic development in Africa. My Administration shares
    fully the Congress' deep concerns about the political and economic
    hardships visited upon Zimbabwe by that country's leadership. I hope the
    provisions of this important legislation will support the people of
    Zimbabwe in their struggle to effect peaceful democratic change, achieve
    economic growth, and restore the rule of law.
        Section 4(c) of the Act purports to direct the executive branch to
    oppose and vote against the extension of loans or the cancellation of
    debt in international financial institutions unless and until I make a
    certification or national interest determination. I am concerned that
    this provision burdens my constitutional authority in the area of
    foreign affairs to conduct negotiations and cast votes in international
    organizations. I will construe the provision as being subject to my
    exclusive authority to negotiate or vote in international financial
    institutions.
                                                    George W. Bush
     The White House,
     December 21, 2001.

    Note: S. 494, approved December 21, was assigned Public Law No. 107-99.