Page:Ford, Kissinger, Congressmen, Eastern Europe Advocates - July 25, 1975(Gerald Ford Library)(1553184).pdf/4

 detente and failed. We feel that the State Department is bending backwards rather than forwards in dealing with the Russians. It is necessary to have a statement by you prior to signing the Helsinki documents. This should get into Radio Free Europe and the European press. I think this will make them think twice. Our people read more now. They know more, we need some kind of statement they can read.

We are in the process of preparing my statement for Helsinki and I welcome your suggestions. I haven't looked at your statement yet but we will see if it can fit in.

Mr. President, this statement that you have just delivered will be released to the press. It will be picked up by the VOA and RFE.

Can we be assured that VOA will carry it?

What I have just read you is an official statement by the President of the United States of America. I would think they could carry it.

Mr. President, I think VOA will undoubtedly report this.

We are assuming a great deal. We will have to follow through. Those here in 1948 and 1966 still don't believe as they still have reservations; they are fearful that they are giving up the rights of millions who are struggling to make sure they have their freedom. We should make sure that RFE and VOA carry this statement, and we should tell the press that we have met with you and that all are in accord with you.

I want to make an appeal that VOA broadcasts reports in Byelo Russian; we have been told that Byelo Russians understand Russian, and that for this reason it is not necessary. They have to understand Russian! But, it is insulting, it deprives them of hope and the feeling that we care. We hope it will be possible to include a full hour of broadcasts in Byelo Russian.

Mr. President. I've been around a long time. This is the first time in 30 years that I've seen a meeting like this! If there could be a press release that these people are here, that the names of those organizations and the names of those speaking for them, if this could be known, this could make an impression behind the Iron Curtain.