For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
March 15, 2001

Statement by the Press Secretary

President Bush announced on February 6 his intention to nominate Richard N. Haass for the rank of Ambassador during his tenure of service as Director of Policy Planning at the Department of State. On March 15, the President announced his further intention that among Mr. Haass? other responsibilities, he take the lead on U.S. engagement in support of the Northern Ireland peace process. The United States will continue to support full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement and stands ready to assist the process in any way that the British and Irish governments and the parties deem useful.

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