8:25 A.M. EDT

          THE PRESIDENT:  Good morning.  I'm pleased to be able to tell the American people that plans are underway to bring home our 24 American servicemen and women from Hainan Island.

          This morning, the Chinese government assured our American Ambassador that the crew would leave promptly.  We're working on arrangements to pick them up and to bring them home.

          This has been a difficult situation for both our countries.  I know the American people join me in expressing sorrow for the loss of life of a Chinese pilot.  Our prayers are with his wife and his child.

          I appreciate the hard work of our Ambassador to China, Joseph Prueher, and his entire embassy team, who worked tirelessly to solve this situation.  The American people, their families, and I are proud of our crew, and we look forward to welcoming them home.

          Thank you.

                           END      8:27 A.M. EDT

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