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USIA - State Department Report, 97-07-31
From: The United States Information Agency (USIA) Home Page at <http://www.usia.gov>
STATE DEPARTMENT REPORT, THURSDAY, JULY 31
(U.S. Citizens in Israel, Transit Visa for Taiwanese President) (320)
There was no regular briefing, but Deputy Spokesman James Foley did speak
on-the-record with reporters. No transcript is available.
AMERICANS REMINDED OF POTENTIAL FOR DANGER IN ISRAEL, WEST BANK
Foley said that the American Embassy in Tel Aviv and the Consulate General
in Jerusalem in a statement July 31 noted the heightened tension in the
area, and reminded all U.S. citizens that the "potential for violence in
the area remains high."
The announcement told American citizens that "although they have not been
specifically targeted for attack, U.S. citizens have been killed in past
terrorist actions in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza."
The embassy reminded U.S. citizens that terrorist attacks have frequently
taken place at rush hour and in crowded areas. "It is strongly advised that
citizens should at any time, avoid large crowds and political demonstrations,
and not remain in an area where a demonstration or altercation appears to
be developing."
The deputy spokesman said the embassy has issued such statements in the
past when there have been bombings and major losses of life.
DEPARTMENT EXPECTS TO APPROVE TRANSIT VISA FOR TAIWANESE PRESIDENT
Foley said the State Department expects to approve a transit visa for
Taiwanese President Lee Teng-hui for a stop in Honolulu while enroute to
Central America in September.
The deputy spokesman said "we are reviewing the transit request. We expect
to approve it." He added that "we don't see any reason why approving such
transit should affect U.S.-People's Republic of China relations."
He was not aware of any Chinese protest over the transit visa request.
Foley noted that the United States grants transit visas to senior Taiwan
leaders on a case-by-case basis for the safety, comfort and convenience of
the traveler. In this case, the visa is "for transit only."
From the United States Information Agency (USIA) Home Page at http://www.usia.gov
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