THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary (Aboard Air Force One en route to Japan)
For Immediate Release July 20, 2000
STATEMENT OF THE PRESIDENT
At today's unprecedented meeting in Tokyo, G8 leaders met with leaders from developing nations and representatives from
the private sector and international development institutions. While I regret that I was unable to participate, I look
forward to hearing from Secretary Summers and my G8 colleagues about the discussion and working to ensure that everyone
benefits from the global economy.
Building on last year's Cologne Debt Initiative, the Okinawa Summit will create a framework to fight infectious disease,
increase access to basic education, and expand opportunity through information technology. Despite a stronger global
economy, too many people around the world live every day without essential health care, basic literacy, or the
opportunity to share in the benefits of modern technology. I am committed to continuing to work closely with America's
partners in the G8 and the developing world to address these issues, reduce poverty, fight infectious disease, and
increase opportunity for all.
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