Message to Congress Transmitting the First Report
of the U.S. Sinai Support Mission
(April 30, 1976)
To the Congress of the United States:
I am transmitting herewith the First Report of the
United States Sinai Support Mission. The Report describes the manner
in which the Support Mission is carrying out its mandate to implement
the United States' responsibility for the early warning system in the
Sinai, as specified in the Basic Agreement between Egypt and Israel
of September 4, 1975, and the Annex to the Basic Agreement. This Report
is provided to the Congress in conformity with Public Law 94-110 of
October 13, 1975.
The Report includes an account of American participation
in the establishment of the Sinai early warning system during the first
six months following the enabling legislation, a report on the current
status of the early warning system, and a discussion of the actions
now under way which will permit the Sinai Support Mission to conclude
its construction and installation phase by early summer. When this preparatory
period has been completed and we have had an opportunity to observe
the ongoing operations of the early warning system, we will be better
able to assess the feasibility of making technological or other changes
that could lead to a reduction in the number of American civilians assigned.
As you know, the functions which the American volunteers
are performing were requested by the Governments of Egypt and Israel.
We have accepted responsibility for these functions, with the concurrence
of both Houses of the Congress, because we believe the United States
has an important stake in a stable Middle East.
The early warning system in the Sinai is an important
investment in peace. It helps support the Basic Agreement between Egypt
and Israel which represents a significant step toward an overall settlement.
Continuing presence of the system provides in itself an important contribution
to stability in the area and to the creation of a climate of confidence
so necessary for further progress toward a just and durable peace.
GERALD R. FORD
Sources: Public Papers of the President |