International Affairs Weigh On Clinton In Hawaii

From CNN White House Correspondent Claire Shipman

HONOLULU, Hawaii (AllPolitics, November 16) -- What was intended to be a relaxing post-election vacation for President Clinton and the first lady has been overshadowed by some pressing international concerns and dampened by rainy weather.

Clinton, who is on his way to an Asian economic summit, is still dealing with recent decisions to send U.S. troops to Zaire and Bosnia.

In addition to cutting short the Hawaii trip, the president's hopes of getting in a few days of golf were also dashed since several weeks of rain have soaked the links and caused damage in the area that could amount to at least $11 million.

However, the sun did break through long enough Saturday for Clinton to play a round with Hawaii Gov. Ben Cayetano. White House officials say Cayetano has not asked for any federal disaster money and any such request would have to go through normal channels.

The three-night stay in Hawaii is the first stop of a 12-day trip, with state visits planned to Australia and Thailand and a summit in the Philippines.

Sending troops to Zaire

In his radio address Saturday, Clinton explained why he decided to commit several thousand U.S. troops to the relief effort in Zaire. (214K WAV sound)

In Washington, Defense Secretary William Perry suggested that the proposed international relief mission to Zaire -- in which the U.S. is to participate -- might be rethought in view of the steady stream of refugees heading home to Rwanda. (186K WAV sound)

White House officials said President Clinton in Hawaii is keeping himself well informed on the latest news concerning the refugee situation in Zaire and Rwanda.

The President telephoned South African President Nelson Mandela Saturday for a 15-minute conversation and also talked with National Security Advisers. White House officials expect a U.S. military assessment team in Zaire to report back with recommendations early to midweek.

In his radio address Clinton also explained why he made another potentially controversial decision -- to extend the U.S. mission in Bosnia beyond the promised withdrawal deadline this fall.

"Rebuilding the fabric of Bosnia's political and economic life is taking more time than anticipated. NATO has been studying options to help give the Bosnian people more time with a new security presence in Bosnia, when IFOR withdraws. Having carefully reviewed these options, I have agreed that Americans should take part," Clinton said.

Asia-bound

Being Asia-bound also keeps the spotlight on the president's so-called Indonesian fundraising connection.

In an interview with the New York Times before leaving Washington, Clinton admitted he had discussed Asian policy with friend, Democratic financier and businessman James Riady, but insisted U.S. policy had not changed as a result.

International Affairs Weigh On Clinton In Hawaii

Sending troops to Zaire

Asia-bound

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