TLS, one page, 8.5 x 11, State of Arkansas, Office of the Governor letterhead, September 6, 1979. Letter to a constituent regarding foreign policy. In part, “I support arms sales, but I oppose the use of arms sales to buy the friendship of repressive governments, such as that of the Shah of Iran. This is not in the best interests anyway and it is not ethical. As to foreign aid programs, I support those which also help our food export policies, which help other countries become stronger and more self sufficient and which help people who are in need. I also strongly support international trade. However, I see two problems with our present policy. We are buying too much oil…and we are still not on equal footing of free trade with many countries. For example, their governments provide hidden advantages and, therefore, we buy more of some things and sell less of others than we would if we would if trade really were ‘free and equal.’” In fine condition, with a bit of faint edge toning and a few creases.
This letter was sent as America faced what would soon explode into a major Middle Eastern crisis. As it was, the US was already dealing with the January collapse of the pro-Western regime of the Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, and the establishment of an Islamic republic. In November, the situation would become much worse after 52 US citizens were taken hostage by a group of Islamist students. Interestingly enough, Clinton would later have an opportunity to triumph with his own trade policies following his 1992 presidential election. Great early insight into the foreign policies of a future chief executive. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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