LETTER FROM PRESIDENT CLINTON TO CONGRESS ON ALBANIA

[USIA]

USIS Washington File

22 January 1998

TEXT: LETTER FROM PRESIDENT CLINTON TO CONGRESS ON ALBANIA

(Certifies Albania's continued eligibility for MFN status) (270)

Washington -- In a letter to the Speaker of the House of
Representatives and the President of the Senate, President Clinton
reported that Albania "was in full compliance with the freedom of
emigration criteria of sections 402 and 409 of the Trade Act of 1974,"
allowing for "the continuation of most-favored-nation (MFN) status for
Albania and certain other activities without the requirement of an
annual waiver."

Following is the text of the president's letter:

(Begin text)

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release January 22, 1998

TEXT OF A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT TO THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF
REPRESENTATIVES AND THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE

January 21, 1998

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:)

I am submitting an updated report to the Congress concerning the
emigration laws and policies of Albania. The report indicates
continued Albanian compliance with U.S. and international standards in
the area of emigration. In fact, Albania has imposed no emigration
restrictions, including exit visa requirements, on its population
since 1991.

On December 5, 1997, I determined and reported to the Congress that
Albania was in full compliance with the freedom of emigration criteria
of sections 402 and 409 of the Trade Act of 1974. That action allowed
for the continuation of most-favored-nation (MFN) status for Albania
and certain other activities without the requirement of an annual
waiver. This semiannual report is submitted as required by law
pursuant to the determination of December 5, 1997.

Sincerely,

BILL CLINTON

(End text)