Statement on Signing the Multinational Force and Observers
Participation Resolution
(December 29, 1981)
It gives me great pleasure to sign into law the Multinational
Force and Observers Participation Resolution. The Multinational Force
and Observers is an international organization established by the protocol
signed by Egypt and Israel on August 3, 1981. This organization will
have the important function of supervising the implementation of key
security aspects of the treaty of peace between Egypt and Israel. It
will thus help ensure that the timetables established in the peace treaty
are met. The legislation I have signed today ensures that the United
States will be in a position to participate in this organization along
with other nations that are interested in contributing to the peace
process in the Middle East.
The peace treaty between Egypt and Israel is an extraordinary achievement,
and its continuing implementation will constitute a further major advance
in the peace process. I am confident that U.S. participation in this
critical step will contribute to our broader efforts to bring about
a just and lasting peace in the region.
I am signing this joint resolution with the understanding that when
U.S. agencies provide property, support, or services to the MFO on a
reimbursable basis, they shall not seek to recover from the MFO amounts
in excess of the cost to the U.S. Government of acquisition of the property,
support, or services so provided, and, in accordance with section 4(c)
of the joint resolution, such costs of acquisition shall not be considered
to include administrative or similar surcharges.
Finally, I wish to commend the Congress for its responsible approach
to this critical legislation. I am gratified that both the executive
and legislative branches addressed this matter which is so vital to
our nation's foreign policy in a spirit of close consultation and cooperation.
This legislation demonstrates the results that can be achieved through
working together in that spirit.
Sources: Public Papers of the President |