SECRETARY ALBRIGHT: General Shalikashvili has performed another great service for the nation. Yesterday, he presented to me his report on his consultations with the Senate and independent experts on the Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty. I appreciate the excellent and comprehensive work he has done.

I believe the General's thorough assessment will provide the basis for thoughtful consideration of these issues by the new Administration and the new Congress. I urge them to look at these questions on their merits. They will have to decide what the right course is for America, but my view remains that eventual ratification of this Treaty, as one part of an overall nonproliferation strategy, will help guard America against nuclear dangers and make all Americans safer.