Gerald Ford

I am sure that both domestically in the United States, as well as worldwide, the handling of the Mayaguez incident should be a firm assurance that the United States is capable and has the will to act in emergencies, in challenges.

I think the trip has a perhaps broader aspect or implication.

I think this is a solvable problem and there is a beginning of the negotiating process that hopefully will lead to a solution.

I think Portugal is a good example.

I am transmitting herewith the second annual report prepared by the Secretary of Commerce dealing with the first year of actual operation under the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972.

I, for one, welcome your advice and welcome your counsel.

This program also seeks to establish a partnership between the States and the Federal government in managing our coastal resources in a way that balances development and environmental concerns.

If we help them to help themselves, we can work towards a stronger and more just international economy for the future.

With the critical need to increase our domestic supplies of energy and other resources from the areas off our coasts, a high priority is attached to the necessity of carrying out these activities in a safe and orderly manner.

We have much to contribute and we have much to gain from economic cooperation with developing countries and from their economic progress.

Small business today includes about 9 million businessmen or businesswomen.

I am most delighted to be in Charlotte today to enjoy the wonderful spirit of this unique observance of our national Bicentennial.

You know it and I know it, and we are all proud of it.

The Nation would be more dependent on foreign oil--when we are already overly dependent and dangerously vulnerable.

Coal production would be unnecessarily reduced--when this vital domestic energy resource is needed more than ever.

Consumers would pay higher costs--particularly for electric bills--when consumer costs are already too high.

It is a tremendous privilege and a very high honor to have the opportunity of being in this great city, county, and this wonderful State.

Our most cherished values have remained as steadfast as when instituted by the fathers of our country.

Consumers too often bear the costs of inefficient regulation in the form of either inadequate service or excessive cost.

America offers a last, best hope upon which they can build new lives.

We must begin at once a major and massive initiative to restore the vitality of this essential industry.

We must open our doors and our hearts.

America has been a refuge for victims of persecution, intolerance and privation from around the world.

The strength of America is its diversity.

I am confident that the Congress can and will act quickly.