Statement by Press Secretary Fitzwater on President Bush's Conversations With President Francois Mitterrand of France and Senator Robert Byrd on the Persian Gulf Crisis

President Bush this afternoon telephoned President Mitterrand of France. They spoke for about 30 minutes. President Bush said he appreciated the firm response and leadership that France has taken in this crisis. The two Presidents also discussed their concern about foreign nationals being held hostage in Kuwait and Iraq.

The President also called Senator Robert Byrd, who was in Amsterdam on his way to Turkey. The President discussed the situation in the Gulf with the Senator and certain other matters that might be raised during his trip to Turkey.