For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
December 21, 2001
President Signs Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act
Statement by the President
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.
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