Ford Pledges to Pursue Detente and Trade with Ussr, and Continue Peace Efforts in the Middle East

President Gerald R. Ford stressed good will, balance and continuity in American foreign policy and tough fiscal restraint at home in his address last night to a joint session of Congress and the nation. In his 40-minute speech only four days after his inauguration, the President put his strongest emphasis on reducing government spending which he saw as the prime cause of inflation.

He was less specific in foreign policy areas but indicated his Administration’s intention to pursue detente and trade with the Soviet Union and continue the Nixon policies of improved relations with China and strong efforts for peace in the Middle East.

With respect to that region, the President said this: “To the nations of the Middle East I pledge continuity in our vigorous efforts to advance the process which has brought hopes of peace to the region after 25 long years as a hotbed of war. We shall carry out our promise to promote continuing negotiations among all parties for a complete, just and lasting settlement.”

At the same time, Ford warned bluntly that the change of Administrations in Washington was no signal to test the strength and determination of American policies. In words clearly addressed to any potential crisis-makers anywhere in the world, the President declared:

“Let there be no doubt or misunderstanding anywhere. There are no opportunities to exploit, should anyone so desire. There will be no change of course, no relaxation of vigilance, no abandonment of the helm of our ship of state as the watch changes. We stand by our commitments and will live up to our responsibilities in our formal alliances, in our friendships and in our improving relations with any potential adversaries.”

PONDER FUTURE OF J/M-V AMENDMENTS

Observers here pondering the Ford speech today suggested that while the new President can be expected to continue the policies established by former President Nixon, Ford is not burdened by the same degree of personal commitment in many areas of policy as was Nixon. Capitol Hill supporters of the Jackson Amendment noted in that respect that Ford shared Nixon’s opposition to the Mills-Vanik amendment to the trade bill passed by the House earlier this year, but not with the same passion.

Dealing with that subject before the joint session, Ford said “with modification,” the trade reform bill passed by the House last year was satisfactory and expressed optimism that “the Senate will pass an acceptable bill quickly as a key part of our joint prosperity campaign.”

Observers noted that efforts to reach a compromise on the Jackson Amendment between the Senate and the Administration are continuing. Meetings between Sens. Henry M. Jackson, Abraham Ribicoff and Jacob K. Javits and Secretary of State Henry A. Kissinger have been a regular feature of this effort. They are expected to meet this week.

In this area, however, some observers feel that Ford may be motivated by a feeling that trade between the U.S. and USSR is beneficial for the American economy and is likely to be cautious about criticizing Soviet emigration policy with regard to those Jews who want to leave.

It is also noted that Kissinger’s continuation in his office means a continuation of U.S. diplomacy toward the USSR. Ford made it clear that he intends to focus on domestic problems in an effort to combat inflation and unemployment and the sagging economy in the agricultural sector. But he indicated that he views American defense spending to be inviolable when it comes to balancing the budget.

ARABS GIVEN VEILED WARNING

Some observers felt that Ford’s insistence on fiscal restraint–“My first priority.” he told Congress, “is to work with you to bring inflation under control. Inflation is our domestic public enemy No. 1”–may reduce American grants in aid to other countries, including Israel. On the other hand, it was pointed out that the President probably considers American military aid to its allies and friends–including Israel–as part and parcel of the powerful defense posture he strongly advocates.

Ford is expected to honor the commitments in that area made by Nixon, which includes Nixon’s offer of nuclear reactors, material and know-how to Egypt and Israel.

Ford may also have issued a veiled warning to the Arab oil producing states not to repeat their embargo of last winter when he said. “We will be working together with other nations to find better ways to prevent shortages of food and fuel. We must not let last winter’s energy crisis happen again. I will push Project Independence for our own good and the good of others.”