Statement by the Press Secretary on the President's Telephone Conversation With Chancellor Helmut Kohl of Germany

President Clinton spoke by phone today with Chancellor Helmut Kohl of Germany for about 40 minutes.

The two leaders discussed a number of bilateral and foreign affairs issues. On the Generalized Agreement for Tariffs and Trade (GATT), the two leaders agreed on the need for successful conclusion of the Uruguay round by the end of 1993 and undertook to remain in contact throughout the autumn for that purpose.

President Clinton and Chancellor Kohl discussed developments in the Middle East, both indicating their deep satisfaction over the prospects for historic breakthroughs in ongoing talks. They reviewed progress in the political and economic reform process in Russia and discussed their efforts to assist that process. They also agreed on the need to cooperate on issues related to the former Yugoslavia.