Shultz Calls for Dealing With Soviets : Says Next President Shouldn’t Be Afraid of U.S.S.R. Reform

Secretary of State George P. Shultz today urged the next U.S. President to be realistic and deal with the Soviet Union when it is in America’s best interests.

“We shouldn’t be afraid to do it,” he said in an Election Day speech to young political leaders from around the world.

He praised the reform efforts of Soviet President Mikhail S. Gorbachev and said that if Gorbachev succeeds, “the Soviet Union will be a very different place.”

But later, opening an exhibit of a Soviet photographer, Sergey Petrov, who is barred from leaving his country, Shultz criticized emigration restrictions.

“We will continue to press hard for Sergey’s release as long as he is held against his will,” Shultz said.

Deserving of Credit

In his foreign policy speech, Shultz said Gorbachev and his supporters “deserve credit for recognizing the problems and trying to solve them.”

As a result, he said, “the environment for democratic values, peace and freedom is probably healthier than it has been for some time.”

Within the Reagan Administration, Shultz has played a leading role in promoting arms-control agreements with Moscow and seeking other ways to reduce tensions.

His speech, which had the earmarks of a valedictory, was aimed at presidential candidates Michael S. Dukakis and George Bush as well as foreign leaders. Shultz said everyone should recognize the dangers of ballistic missiles and chemical weapons proliferation.

Chance to Solve Problems

“When we see an opportunity for problem-solving, when there is an opportunity to do something that (the Soviets) want to do and that we think it is in our interest, in the interest of friends around the world, we shouldn’t be afraid to do it. In other words, engage,” Shultz said.

He said whether Bush or Dukakis wins, the United States should be vigilant in dealing with the Soviet Union. “We’re going to be realistic, but at the same time pragmatic,” Shultz said.