Office of the Vice President

For Immediate Release
August 3, 2000

STATEMENT BY THE VICE PRESIDENT
ON COMPUTER EXPORT CONTROLS

I welcome the Administration's update of U.S. export controls on high-performance computers. This policy will promote our national security, improve the effectiveness of our export controls, and increase the ability of U.S. high-tech companies to compete and win in global markets.

This decision reflects the consensus position of our national security and economic advisers. It helps our nation devote more resources to controlling those technologies that truly pose a threat to our national security. The Administration's policy also recognizes the importance to our national security of maintaining a strong and vibrant industrial and technology base.

Today's announcement is also good for the U.S. economy. In recent years, the information technology sector has accounted for almost one-third of U.S. economic growth, and is generating jobs that pay 85 percent more than the private sector average. By continuing to update U.S. export controls, the Administration is helping to ensure that America continues to lead the world in the Information Age.

I urge the Congress to pass legislation that would shorten the Congressional review period before these decisions can go into effect. This legislation is needed so that our export control policies can keep up with the pace of technological change.

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