PDD-71

Text: Clinton Statement on New Presidential Decision Directive February 24

(Strengthening institutions where peacekeeping forces are deployed)
(380)

President Clinton signed a Presidential Decision Directive (PDD)
February 24 that he said "will improve America's ability to strengthen
police and judicial institutions in countries where peacekeeping
forces are deployed."

The PDD, the President said, "directs the Departments of State,
Defense and Justice to undertake a series of critical enhancements in
the areas of police-military coordination, as well as in police, penal
and judicial training and development."

Following is the White House text:

(begin text)

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary

February 24, 2000

STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT

I have just signed a Presidential Decision Directive (PDD) that will
improve America's ability to strengthen police and judicial
institutions in countries where peacekeeping forces are deployed. The
PDD directs the Departments of State, Defense and Justice to undertake
a series of critical enhancements in the areas of police-military
coordination, as well as in police, penal and judicial training and
development.

In peacekeeping missions from the Balkans to East Timor, establishing
basic law and order has been among the most important -- and
formidable -- challenges. Developing effective local police forces,
establishing credible court and penal systems, and reforming legal
codes can make the crucial difference between building a just future
and lapsing back into conflict.

When fully implemented, this PDD will help overcome major obstacles
that currently confront international peacekeeping operations. By
enhancing cooperation between police and military peacekeepers, we
will better ensure public security during these operations. By more
effectively training and fielding international police monitors, we
will better ensure that local police fairly and effectively prevent
the breakdown of law and order in post-conflict societies. And by
improving our ability to provide assistance to local judicial and
penal institutions, we will better ensure accountability, as well as
confidence among local populations often traumatized by the conflicts
they have endured.

We must do everything possible to improve our ability to help
countries in transition to get the job done -- and to encourage other
governments and the United Nations to be deeply engaged in these
efforts.

(end text)

(Distributed by the Office of International Information Programs, U.S.
Department of State. Web site: usinfo.state.gov)