Diary Entry - 11/02/1981
Key Facts
President Reagan meets with King Hussein I of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
President Reagan meets with the legislative strategy group to discuss the economic predictions for 1983 and 1984.
Day really started with the arrival ceremony for King Hussein & Queen Noor. I’d received a letter from Margaret Thatcher telling me the King was very nervous about the meeting. In the Oval office after the ceremony I told him where we stood and the climate got better. I think my remarks at the ceremony declaring our friendship with Jordan were well received by him. He ad-libbed a finish to his own remarks that was very sincere and expressed appreciation for what I’d said. It’s going to be touchy with Israel but we’re going to provide defensive weapons for Jordan. If we dont they’ll turn to the Soviets for them because of their fear of Syria. Later in the day we had a legislative planning session in which a very dark picture economically was painted for 83 & 84. I will not give in and raise taxes. The State Dinner was a smash from1st cocktail to the last dance. Benny Goodman entertained with 4 of the top men in the field including Buddy Rich on drums. Everyones foot was tapping. I believe we’ve really established a bond of friendship. His Majesty’s response to the toast was obviously sincere, warm & moving.
