(1 Sep 1998) English/Nat

The U-S President Bill Clinton has told a group of Moscow school pupils that he sympathises with the Russian people, but is confident they will rise above the country's difficulties.

Clinton made the comments during a visit which marked the start of the Russian school year.

It was back to school for Russian schoolchildren on Tuesday.

But for the 7- to 17- year-olds from Moscow School Number 19 a special guest made it a back to school they will never forget.

The President of the United States and his wife dropped by for a visit, during a break from the summit with Boris Yeltsin and his officials.

The Clintons were treated to a show of traditional Russian folk music and dancing from the children.

Then it was the Clintons' turn to take to the stage.

First, Hillary - who talked about the importance of education in times of difficulty.

SOUNDBITE: (English)
"In both our nations, education is that sturdy boat that lifts us up, that separates those who will thrive in the 21st century from those who might get left behind on the shore. It is the sturdy boat that strengthens democracy, offers prosperity and really helps bind together our two nations in friendship for the future."
SUPER CAPTION: Hillary Clinton, U-S First Lady

Then Hillary introduced her husband.

Significantly for scandal-watchers back home, Hillary did not respond to an affectionate gesture from Bill as he passed her on the stage.

President Clinton told the students he understands times are tough but insisted Russian people have coped with worse in the past.

SOUNDBITE: (English)
"Your country is going through some difficult changes right now and I know things aren't so easy for a lot of people, but I also know that in times of crisis the Russian people have always risen to the occasion with courage and determination."
SUPER CAPTION: Bill Clinton, U-S President

After his speech, Clinton helped one of the youngest pupils at the school ring the 100- year-old bell to signal the start of the academic year.

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