White House Diaries

Wednesday, December 16, 1987

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An update on the “Continuing Resolution” & “Reconciliation bill.” Things seem a little better on about half of those 13 objectionable items. Then some talk about Jim Wright since the defecting Major from Nicaragua who has revealed the Sandinista’s planned military build up. I’m also told our P.F.I.A.B group is a little upset about our verification policys. Then I learned Judge Kennedy has finished his testimony before the Sen. Committee on ratifying his appointment. They didn’t lay a glove on him. He & his family stopped by the Oval office.

N.S.C.—The A.S.E.A.N. Summit came off very well we’re told. Japan has offered $2 bil. in aid of various kinds to S.E. Asia. Walter Pincus of the W. Post has a story that we don't know how many I.N.F. weapons Soviets have. Well there could be a far fetched possibility that’s true but actually our ways of estimating prove the Soviets are telling the truth. And if we find even 1 more then they’ve claimed, the treaty is violated.

We’re still waiting to hear about the Korean election. Sen. Cohen is demanding access by the Cong. to all information on Covert operations.

Then after some desk time it was a briefing for our visit with P.M. Goria of Italy. He arrived at 11:30 A.M. We had the usual photo time with 3 waves of press. Then a meeting in the Cabinet room which then moved into Roosevelt room for lunch. It was a good session. He was responsible for sending Italian Navy vessels & minesweepers into the P. Gulf. We reported to him on the summit & he’s going to push our Congressmen to ratify the I.N.F. treaty. Finally over to Diplomatic Entrance & farewell statements.

Then it was some desk time—a report on Mike Deaver Jury. They found him guilty on 3 of the 5 counts. Sentencing is set for Feb. 25. His lawyer has announced he’ll appeal.

Tonite we had 1st of 2 press receptions—part of holiday activities. We shook about 500 hands & repeat tomorrow nite. We did it & were upstairs by 9:30.