ACCESSION NUMBER:288527
FILE ID:TXT501
DATE:06/11/93
TITLE:ASPIN ON SECURITY IN EUROPE (06/11/93)
TEXT:*93061101.TXT
ASPIN ON SECURITY IN EUROPE

(VOA Editorial)  (450)
(Following is an editorial, broadcast by the Voice of America June 11,
reflecting the views of the U.S. government.)

In a recent speech, U.S. Secretary of Defense Les Aspin called for a
re-dedication to the vision of a Europe whole and free.  Thanks to the end
of the Cold War, this vision includes the region from the Atlantic ocean to
the Ural mountains -- in particular, the countries of the former Soviet
bloc.  As Aspin said, "we must work to ensure the success of democratic and
economic reforms, with special attention to the courageous efforts of
reformers in Russia, Ukraine, and the other republics of the former Soviet
1nion and the nations of eastern Europe."

Secretary of Defense Aspin pointed out that the most pressing danger in
Europe today stems from the nationalistic rivalries unleashed since the end
of the Cold War.  He said that ethnic conflicts like those in the former
Yugoslavia can destabilize a country and even spread to neighboring states.
 Indeed, such conflicts could threaten the whole of Europe.  That is why,
said Aspin, the "United States cannot hold itself aloof from the
instability and conflict in Europe.  U.S. involvement in two world wars in
this century demonstrates that beyond doubt."

To assure security in Europe, Secretary of Defense Aspin said that the
United States will work to strengthen three existing institutions: the
North Atlantic Treaty Organization, or NATO; the North Atlantic Cooperation
Council, made up of the defense ministers of the countries of NATO and the
former Warsaw Pact; and the Conference on Security and Cooperation in
Europe.  The United States will also work to expand its economic, political
and military relations with each of the nations of Europe.  In addition,
the United States will seek to foster the growth of regional understandings
and associations among European countries.

Equally important to European security is the effort to support the cause of
political and economic reform.  Secretary of Defense Aspin said that the
example of Russian reformers will encourage the forces of democracy in
Ukraine and the other non-Russian states and strengthen the basis for
economic cooperation among them.  Likewise, the success of reform in
Ukraine and the other non-Russian republics will contribute to the success
of reform in Russia.  And as Aspin said, "a democratic, non-imperial Russia
is the best guarantee of security and stability in the new Europe."

As Secretary of Defense Aspin said, "in both formerly divided halves of
Europe, nations have expressed a commitment to democracy, to free markets,
and to peace and common security.  Together we can and must support,
protect and nurture these commitments."

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.