In response to questions raised concerning my relationship with Mr. Tongsun Park and allegations to his role in respect of the United Nation’s Iraqi oil-for-food program I want to make clear that:

 

-         Having served UN Secretaries-General since 1970 in several advisory and executive capacities I have had no involvement or connection whatsoever with the UN’s Iraqi oil-for-food program or any other of its Iraqi activities.  Indeed I cannot recall a single instance in which I had any contact or discussion on the program with any of the officials responsible.

 

-         In 1997, Mr. Park invested on a normal commercial basis in an energy company with which I was associated that had no relationship with Iraq.

 

-         I have continued to maintain a relationship with Mr. Park.  Indeed, as a native of North Korea he has advised me on North Korean issues in my role as UN Envoy.

 

-         I will make myself available to both the Volcker Commission and the US Attorney’s Office to provide any further information which would assist in the expeditious resolution of this matter so as to have this cloud removed as soon as possible.