Washington, 18 March 1997 (RFE/RL) - The White House says the United States looks forward to working with the new ministers appointed to the Russian government.
White House spokesman Michael McCurry said those who have been named publicly are "people who have a track record with respect to reforms." He cited no names.
But McCurry repeated an often stated policy that U.S. engagement and partnership with the Russian Federation is not dependent on individuals.
He said the United States assumes the new individuals named to the Government by Russian President Boris Yeltsin will be committed to democratization and economic liberalization.