DATE=01/26/2001

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

NUMBER=2-271866

TITLE=BUSH/NUCLEAR ARMS (S-ONLY)

BYLINE=DAVID GOLLUST

DATELINE=WHITE HOUSE

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: President Bush in his first remarks on the issue since taking office - says he intends to fulfill campaign promises to move ahead on both a national missile defense program and efforts to further reduce offensive nuclear weapons. V-O-A's David Gollust reports from the White House.

TEXT: The drive for a missile defense capability is opposed by Russia as a violation of the 1972 Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty. But the president in stressing his determination to go ahead with the program suggests it need not mean the end of dialogue with Moscow on reducing offensive nuclear weapons.

In an exchange with reporters as he met state governors, Mr. Bush said he is going ahead with missile defense, but also wants to reduce offensive arms commensurate with America's ability to keep the peace.

/// BUSH ACTUALITY ///

We'll see how that affects possible arms talks. My point is that I want America to lead the world toward a more safe world when it comes to nuclear weaponry. On the offensive side we can do so, and we can do so on the defensive side as well.

/// END ACT ///

Mr. Bush said he will respond to the letter he received this week from Russian President Vladimir Putin proposing broader cooperation between the two powers, but gave no time frame, while Secretary of State Colin Powell told reporters a dialogue with Mr. Putin will begin "in due time." A spokeswoman here said the new administration intends to conduct a comprehensive review of the relationship with Moscow. (Signed)

NEB/DAG/TDW