I welcome the opportunity through this Consular Convention to improve the relations between the two countries and their nationals.

Later in the day, the President called the President-elect, thanked him again for the offer, and accepted his invitation to represent the United States.

The Cyprus problem remains on the international agenda.

We have now reached an agreement with Iran which will result, I believe, in the freedom of our American hostages.

Any branch or office of a United States bank or subsidiary thereof, which branch or office is located outside the territory of the United States is licensed, authorized, directed, and compelled to transfer such funds, securities, and deposits.

I believe, in the freedom of our American hostages.

I therefore recommend that the Senate give early and favorable consideration to the Protocol of Amendment, and advice and consent to its ratification.

All persons subject to the jurisdiction of the United States in possession or control of properties, not including funds and securities, owned by Iran or its agencies, instrumentalities, or controlled entities are licensed, authorized, directed and compelled to transfer such properties, as directed after the effective date of this Order by the Government of Iran, acting through its authorized agent.

I’ll wait until the hostages are released, and then I'll have another statement to make.

I will sign, upon release of the hostages, an Executive Order revoking prohibitions previously imposed against transactions involving Iran.

The signing of the Convention is a significant step in the process of improving and broadening the relationship between the United States and the People's Republic of China.