YouSaid · the spoken record

Medici

lines on the record: 57
first: 1968-09-24
most recent: 1972-09-24
sittings or episodes: 2
sources: un-general-debate

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“At 'lie same time the United Nations must obtain the cooperation of the great democratic forces of the world. Democratic institutions in national societies remain alive and operate through the full support of their major political forces. Similarly the vitality and the efficiency of a world Organization depend, to a large extent, upon the adherence and contribution of the most influential nations. 90. Let me conclude by restating the sincere confidence of the Italian Government in the United Nations as well as in the purposes and principles of its Charter. I also wish to assure you once again that the Italian Government, interpreting the deep felt dedication to peace of its people, will continue to give its unrestricted cooperation to the United Nations.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“It was therefore with satisfaction that we heard Mr. Rogers say in his statement to the Assembly that: "... we believe that for the Security Council to maintain its influence and authority, ways must be found to ensure the representation of States, other than the present permanent members . . . whose resources and influence are of major importance in world affairs." [2038th meeting, para. 64.] My country hopes that such a constructive approach will be adopted by the other permanent members of the Security Council. 89. The role of the United Nations and of its specialized agencies is ever growing and unique. In order to be increasingly able to deal with the deep-rooted causes of international tension, the United Nations must enlarge its decision-making process by associating the emerging countries with it.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“We also consider that the responsibilities within our Organization should be better distributed, taking into account the contribution which each Member country can make, commensurate with its capacity, towards the achievement of the objectives I have indicated. 88. The world undoubtedly owes much to the sense of responsibility shown by the great military Powers. But the concept of peace and security which I mentioned earlier implies that the time has come for other countries to share world responsibilities. I am referring to countries which, although they are not-and choose not to be-nuclear Powers, can still make substantial contributions to the maintenance of peace, since they are in a position to promote and advance the economic, social, scientific, technical and cultural progress of mankind.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“We must go beyond the image of the United Nations as the "warden of peace" and strive for a United Nations capable of eradicating the basic causes of international tension, of harmonizing opposing interests and of creating better standards of living for all peoples. 86. Furthermore, a new approach to the problems concerning peace and security requires the strengthening of the Economic and Social Council. Its capacity for furthering the aims of the United Nations in the field of economic development, of social progress and of the protection of human rights must become more incisive. 87.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“Gibson Barboza, when he opened the general debate: "It is beyond question, in our view, that the participation of the medium-sized and small Powers would be highly constructive and creative; it would be tantamount to an infusion of new blood, which might serve to heal the sclerosis of structures that have aged apparently without being aware of it." [2038th meeting, para. 19.] 85. In this connexion the Secretary-General noted in the introduction to his report on the work of the Organization that collective security should not be based only on the agreement of a few Powers [A/8701/Add.l, p. 2].”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“Rogers [2038th meeting], and we shall carefully study the draft convention submitted to this Assembly [A/C.6/L.850]. We are ready to co-operate in drawing up a text of a resolution which could meet with wide approval. 84. We think it is our duty to ask ourselves whether the structure of the United Nations can fulfill the Organization's present tasks. The Italian Government believes that, while fully respecting the purposes and principles of the Charter as they stand, some structures of our Organization must be adjusted to the new realities and to the new requirements which have arisen during the past 25 years. As was pointed out by the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Brazil, Mr.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“The search for peace must aim at reducing the economic imbalance which separates countries and obstructs the path towards an effective equality among men of different races. 83. We must therefore strive to promote broader observance of international law. This can be obtained by strengthening the means for the peaceful settlement of international disputes, by enhancing the role of the International Court of Justice, by developing and codifying international law and by creating effective peacekeeping instruments of the United Nations. There is also the need to solve the serious problems arising from both terrorism and retaliation, which produce so many innocent victims in various parts of the world. In this respect, we listened with interest to the proposal of the United States Secretary of State, Mr.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“Peace-keeping requires, besides measures to avoid possible conflicts or to settle those that already exist, a global commitment for the gradual removal of the deeper and sometimes old causes of conflict. We must include among these causes all kinds of interference in international affairs, any limitation of sovereignty or any attempt to limit the freedom of each people to choose the regime under which it wants to live. If in some continents these ills are the remnants of the colonial policy of the past, in others they are the consequence of power politics. 81. Our commitment must be further directed against serious violations of human rights. Genocide, racial discrimination and political persecution, so much more unacceptable when carried out with the appearance of legality, are a permanent threat to peace. 82.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“However, no one can deny the fact that, on the issue of the maintenance of peace and security, international reality has followed a course different from that advocated in 1945, thus partly frustrating the original expectations. 78. While the great Powers were slowly moving from a "balance of terror" to a dialog which was the product of the so-called "balance of caution", the members of the international community were increasing in number and new centers of influence were rising. These new centers, thanks to the great contribution they can make to economic and cultural development, should be enabled to participate more fully in the system of collective security established by the Charter. 79. The Italian Government has repeatedly stated to this Assembly its point of view on the matter of international security. 80.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“The full attainment of the objectives of decolonization, solemnly and repeatedly voiced in this Assembly, will open the doors of the United Nations to some new peoples that are still yearning for independence. The Italian Government confirms its full adherence to this goal. We are convinced that we must facilitate, in the spirit of the United Nations Charter and in accordance with its provisions, the historical process which will wipe out the last vestiges of colonialism, especially in the African continent. 77. The foresight of the founding fathers made the United Nations flexible enough to enable it after more than a quarter of a century to deal with previously unforeseen problems, such as those of the developing countries, of the technological and scientific gap and of the protection of the environment.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“We do hope that the two German States will successfully conclude their negotiations and thus be able to join our Organization. 75. For other so-called divided States the way to membership in the United Nations is still difficult. However, the negotiations in progress between the two Koreas raise some hope. Some better prospects arise also from the confirmed determination of the United States Government to withdraw all its troops from Viet-Nam. I should like to express in this Assembly the good wishes of the Italian people and Government to the Vietnamese people, so sorely tried by the horrors of war. I do hope that in the near future all the peoples of Indochina will be able to devote themselves, in security and independence, to the rehabilitation of their countries. 76.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“Such regional initiatives, therefore, will benefit from the institution of machinery like the world disarmament conference. 73. We can therefore hope that we are on the threshold of further progress towards detente. However, we must do what is necessary to prevent the setting up of a new pattern of international relations from taking place at the expense of freedom for peoples and independence for nations. The emergence of new Powers on the world scene should be accompanied by the increasingly responsible participation of all countries in the life of the international community. 74. Our Assembly, which last year finally welcomed in its midst the representatives of the great Chinese people, should give its utmost attention to this problem. Another important step is likely to be taken towards the universality of the United Nations.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“70. We are deeply committed to the objectives of the Conference of the Committee on Disarmament and we express the hope that when it resumes its work the important negotiations undertaken by it will achieve positive results. We equally trust that the resumption of the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks will bring about fruitful results. 71. Finally, we welcomed with interest the proposal to convene a world disarmament conference. Such an initiative will be all the more effective if it is supported by the general membership of the United Nations, including all the nuclear Powers, and if it is accurately prepared by an adequately representative organ. 72. Meanwhile, proposals have been submitted which are designed to limit arguments on a regional scale. We think that they should be viewed in the framework of the general balance of forces.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“Furthermore, despite the appeals made to the parties directly involved in the conflict we are now witnessing a resumption of violence which threatens to get out of hand. That tension is the result of a lack of progress in working out a just solution to the conflict in that region. It is the duty of the United Nations to encourage the parties- as well as the Powers which wield some influence in that area to act in such a way that a just solution may be found. We maintain that the implementation of Security Council resolution 242 (1967) in all its parts is the most valid way to a lasting settlement in the area. 69. The easing of tension necessarily involves the problem of disarmament. I should therefore like to stress the interest which my Government has always attached to this important issue, so essential for the strengthening of peace.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“If, as we hope, the outcome of the negotiations now going on in order to normalize the relations between the two States of the German nation is a positive one, an important obstacle on the way to European co-operation will be removed. 66. Further momentum for this process will be provided by the conference for security and co-operation in Europe. In this spirit, we are working towards the adequate preparation of that conference. 67. But Europe cannot feel secure unless there is peace also in the Mediterranean. Unfortunately, the ghost of war is still looming over the Near East, and the resolutions of the United Nations have so far remained in the limbo of good intentions. 68.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“One of the most important issues to be discussed at the forthcoming summit meeting in-Paris, next October, will be a plan for co-operation with the latter countries. The European Community intends to honor the commitments which it has undertaken in the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development for the development of trade within the framework of a system of generalized preferences. 65. One of the main goals of the Community is the gradual closing, through a realistic and constructive dialog, of the gap which has divided Europe during the last 25 years. The Community is attempting to set up new relations, based on the recognition of reality, on mutual trust and on the free exchange of people, information and ideas.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“The recent developments in Europe are bound to give a decisive contribution to the stability of the old continent and, therefore, of the whole international order. The Community, which the Western European countries are building, is undergoing a process of strengthening and enlargement. It is and will remain a commonwealth of free peoples, founded on the heritage of a common civilization and on a common conception of democracy, social progress and the dignity of man. This association of States is and will remain open to co-operation with the rest of the world. 64. The European Community intends to live up to its responsibilities in so far as its relations with other States, and in particular with the developing countries, are concerned.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“Two great peoples, the Chinese and the Japanese, are trying to bridge the gulf which has separated them in recent times. This is an event which can greatly contribute to a better and more stable international community. North and South Korea are moving towards the normalization of their relations and we hope that nothing will interfere with these new and promising developments. In the Asian subcontinent, the way is now open to negotiations; if that path is followed with farsightedness, it will be possible to re-establish harmony among the States of that huge area to the benefit of the whole international community. In this spirit we hope that we may soon welcome Bangladesh in our midst. 63.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“He knows that he can rely on the support of my Government in carrying out his high mission as the faithful interpreter of the spirit of the Charter. 60. The speakers who have preceded me have referred to the expectations and anxieties of their peoples, but it seems to me that the most significant note which has resounded up to now in this world Assembly has been a note of hope. 61. In spite of persistent conflicts and selfish nationalisms, in spite of the unleashing of violence no longer restrained by national or international law, we all feel that a relaxation of tension in international relations is taking place. 62. Let me first have a look at Asia, where the worst conflict of the last 25 years is still raging, but where we now note some encouraging symptoms.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“Mr. President, it is a privilege for me to extend to you, on behalf of the Italian Government, my congratulations and good wishes. I am addressing not only a distinguished statesman but the representative of a noble people to which the Italians feel very close, sharing with it many traditions and the same deep love of peace. In recalling the important work performed by this Assembly last year under the guidance of your illustrious predecessor, Mr. Adam Malik, I am certain that the results of the current session will prove just as fruitful. 59. I wish to assure the Secretary-General, Mr. Kurt Waldheim, of my sincere appreciation of the dedication with which he has undertaken his difficult task in the service of the Organization.”
1972-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 27 (1972)
“Keeping in mind the deep anxiety with which this problem is followed in all countries and particularly in Italy, we consider that our Organization must throw all its weight behind the action of the Organization of African Unity for a speedy and peaceful solution of this conflict, enabling all countries to engage in the work of reconstruction. 50. The proposals and the ideas I have put forward seem to me the best proof that recent events have not shaken the faith of the Italian Government in our Organization. And to the United Nations we pledge our firm and undivided co-operation.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“The Italian delegation clearly realizes the internal nature of that conflict, which has been emphasized in the resolutions adopted at the summit meetings of Heads of State of the Organization of African Unity. We are fully aware that it is the primary responsibility of the African countries to workout lasting solutions to their problems. We expect in this context that the Federal Government of Nigeria and the African countries themselves will take all necessary initiatives to bring about a solution of the crisis. 49.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“Italy, which is firmly opposed to all forms of racial discrimination, confirms its resolve to carry out the decisions of the Security Council with regard to Rhodesia and to support every realistic effort to eradicate, especially from southern Africa, a phenomenon which we profoundly deplore as it infringes the fundamental rights of man. 47. Finally, I cannot conceal the grave anxiety and deep concern with which the Italian people view the situation in Nigeria, As we see that bloody civil war continuing, we must give increasing support to the relief work conducted by UNICEF and the International Red Cross, and try to contribute to the re-establishment of conditions of peace and security for all the people of Nigeria. 48.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“We have associated ourselves with those who consider that the 1954 Geneva Agreements offer the basis for a negotiated settlement. Yet we are deeply distressed to note that the negotiations are proceeding with exasperating slowness. We are particularly concerned to note that, at the military level, the first significant United States gesture has not been followed by the progressive reduction in hostilities that we had a right to expect. We feel, therefore, that the time has come for an urgent appeal to the parties so that, through reduction in military operations, the way may be prepared for a solution which would finally ensure a return to peace. 46. I should like now to deal briefly with the serious problems which racial hatred is stirring up in the African continent.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“Furthermore, as a result of the conspicuous economic damage caused by the conflict of June 1967, particularly to the countries of the region concerned, we must co-operate in re-habilitating the different economies, so as to prevent irreparable postponements and delays in the development plans which are so vital for the welfare of the people of the area. 45. Another serious problem which is of great concern to us is the conflict in Viet-Nam, Although the United Nations was unable to take any direct action in this regard, the debates in this Hall and the pressure of world public opinion undoubtedly contributed to the start of the Paris negotiations. We have always maintained that there must be a political and not a military solution to that conflict.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“We find a confirmation of our anxieties in the latest developments in the Middle East, which have dangerously aggravated the difficulties resulting from the conflict of June 1967. We are convinced that a solution to those difficulties may be found within the framework of the United Nations. Hence, we shall continue to give our most Sincere support to the mission of Mr. Jarring, whose high capacities we fully appreciate. We shall persevere in every possible action which will relax tension and contribute to the success of the mission. 44. I should like to recall from this rostrum the idea put forward by Italy in order to overcome the difficulties connected with Security Council resolution 242(1967) of 22 November 1967 so as to make it possible for the Jarring mission to come to grips with the substance of the matters involved.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“It is also prepared to offer the co-operation of Italian technicians for the implementation of those countries’ national projects or of projects of common interest. 41. Finally, the Italian Government wishes to continue and to enlarge within the framework of the United Nations its general action in favour of the developing countries. I am in a position to state that we are increasing our contribution to the United Nations Development Programme for 1969 by 20 per cent. 42. Action taken along the lines I have described - strengthening of the United Nations, disarmament, and development assistance — cannot alone ensure the peaceful and balanced progress of international society, unless we tackle the crises which have arisen in some regions of the world. 43.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“On that subject may I be allowed to recall three specific Italian proposals: (a) The Italian Parliament, taking up an appeal by a million and a half young people, has expressed the hope that the United Nations will set up a world-wide fund to combat hunger, leprosy and natural disasters; (b) The Italian Government, with the aim of acquainting the developing countries with advanced technology and modern systems of industrial organization, proposes to participate — by contributing annually $300,000 to the United Nations Industrial Development Organization and by offering adequate buildings — in the creation in Italy, through international financing and in co-operation with UNIDO and the International Labour Organization, a United Nations centre for the training of industrial managers; (c) As a contribution towards the same goals, Italy is prepared to provide the developing countries with access to the San Marco space programme.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“The President of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, Robert McNamara, devoted great attention to these problems in his recent address to the Board of Governors. His speech contains a very interesting plan for an expansion of the efforts of the Bank in the developing countries. 40.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“I sincerely hope that the report which the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space will submit to us in the next few days will indicate the possibilities of progress in this direction. 38. The problems raised by the utilization of marine resources are equally very important. The Italian delegation hopes that the Committee set up by the Assembly will be able to continue — on a structural and permanent basis — the work it has begun in order to avoid the extension of the arms race and to ensure international co-operation in the use of the reserves contained in the sea-bed. 39. In the third place, so as to build a peaceful order on lasting foundations, we must tackle with zeal and imagination the problems raised by the serious economic and social disparities which exist.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“be one of the most useful ways to ensure the validity and effective operation of the non-proliferation treaty and to discourage any temptation to resort to nuclear rearmament. 37. Among the questions listed in the agenda there are, besides nuclear energy, those concerning outer Space and the sea-bed. I should merely like to stress that the Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space [See resolution 2222 (XXI)], opened for signature on 27 January 1967, must be fully and coherently applied. It is important to bear in mind that the Treaty really only lays down the general principles and therefore requires further elaboration.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“It is also my duty to mention the important contribution towards the understanding of these problems made by the Conference of Non-Nuclear-Weapon States, held in Geneva last month. In order to ensure the continuation of the work undertaken, we would favour the establishment, already commended at Geneva by many countries, of an ad hoc committee for the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. That committee, composed of nuclear-weapon and non-nuclear-weapon Powers, could create conditions for fruitful co-operation in the economic field, and encourage and co-ordinate the work of all the bodies which will increasingly be called upon to deal with these problems. In our view, this would.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“It is to be noted that those measures, although with a different order of priority, appear among the proposals submitted by other States, among them the Soviet Union in its memorandum of 5 July 1968 [A/7134]. 34. Our proposals are not of a theoretical nature and do not pursue objectives which can be secured only in the distant future. As in the case of underground nuclear explosions, they take into account specific needs and present possibilities. 35. I also wish to recall the proposal put forward originally by Senator Fanfani: that proposal within its realistic limits, would link nuclear disarmament with assistance to the developing countries by making available a part of the stocks of fissionable material of the nuclear Powers for use in the peaceful programmes of non-nuclear-weapon States. 36.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“As far as the second aim is concerned, we believe that the Treaty must guarantee non-nuclear-weapon States free access to the supply of nuclear fuel and to the acquisition of the necessary technology and know-how, For us, this is the meaning which the full and practical application of articles IV and V of the Treaty must involve. 33. We also consider that the search for appropriate solutions to the question of nuclear disarmament is one of the most urgent tasks which the Eighteen-Nation Committee on Disarmament must face. At the last session of that body the Italian delegation circulated a list of the measures which appear most urgent and are ripe for a fruitful discussion.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“I have stated that, in our view, the non-proliferation Treaty must become an effective instrument not only for the prevention of war, but also for the achievement of peace. As far as the first aim is concerned, Italy recognizes that an early implementation of the nuclear disarmament measures contemplated in the Treaty would constitute the necessary, counterbalance of the obligations which non-nuclear-weapon States assume. It also recognizes the indispensable condition for the security of all countries, in the framework of general and complete disarmament under strict international control.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“I can confirm that our intentions have not changed, Nevertheless, we have been unable to remain indifferent to the patent violation of one of the fundamental principles of the preamble to that Treaty and, at the same time, of the United Nations Charter — a violation which has taken place even before the Treaty has entered into force, Faced with such a violation, the Italian Parliament, in reaffirming its own intentions, has endorsed the decision of the Government to adhere to the Treaty at a time when it is clear that it is fulfilling the basic objective of reducing international tension which inspired it. 31. We hope that the pause for reflection may soon be overcome; we shall then be only too happy to respond to the eloquent appeal which the Swedish Foreign Minister addressed from this rostrum [1677th meeting] to all Governments. 32.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“Moreover, bearing in mind this correlation between disarmament and development, the Italian Government has declared before Parliament its intention to sign the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, We regard that Treaty above all as an instrument not only for limiting the spread of nuclear weapons, but also for promoting the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. 30.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“In view of the fact that not all the States Members of the United Nations agree in defining the prerequisites for admission, we have proposed in past years a thorough and realistic inquiry as to the ways and means to secure the universality of our Organization. This applies most especially to China, I believe that careful study should be given to this subject, including consideration at the present session of the General Assembly. 29. Our second task must be to devote all our energies to promoting disarmament, for, in addition to averting the danger of war, disarmament would make vast resources available for economic and social progress.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“But if these initiatives are to meet with a broader response they must be accompanied by a campaign of orientation and information, especially among younger people. This is the goal pursued by the Italian proposal, already inscribed in the agenda, to impart to the teaching staff of schools a knowledge of the United Nations. 27. The prestige and the authority of our Organization depend upon its universality. For that reason Italy has emphasized the necessity that all countries be represented in the United Nations, provided, of course, that they satisfy the necessary prerequisites and accept the obligations of the Charter. 28. There are, however, objective difficulties which prevent the implementation of the principle of universality.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“First, it should move towards constructive solutions of a practical nature for the studies now being conducted with regard to the fundamental principles of the Charter; second, it should promote a definition of the possible forms of aggression, paying due attention to the events of the recent past; third, it should give further impetus to the work of the Special Committee on Peace-Keeping Operations, which has been able to continue its activities essential for solving the problems of the United Nations and of the financing of peace-keeping operations. 26. The initiatives aimed at providing the United Nations with appropriate means to discharge its mandate are expressions of a profound feeling of people today.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“Our first task must be to strengthen the authority of the United Nations, making more efficient the constitutional machinery designed to ensure respect for international law, While keeping within the present rules and structure of the United Nations, the Assembly should, in our opinion, see to it that the Charter is more satisfactorily implemented, To this end, the Assembly should co-ordinate its efforts in several directions. 25.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“This is a fact which we recognize in theory but sometimes reject in the reality of our political actions. This is why further efforts must be made not only to revitalize our Organization, but also to expand it. Encouraged by the certainty that our concerns and aspirations are shared by all, I should like to submit for the Assembly's consideration some remarks which, I hope, may help us overcome the present difficulties. 24.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“I should like to make it clear that when I say that autarchy can lead to conflicts, I am referring not only to what happened in Europe during the 1930s, but also to what occurred during the 1950s, in the darkest period of the cold war. I am thereby referring to those nationalistic tendencies which are retarding some of our collective initiatives in the economic field and frustrating the liberalizing drive which is essential for the development of the less-favoured countries. 22. For those reasons our policy remains firmly oriented not only towards the widening of the European Economic Community, but also towards the expansion of its exchanges with all countries. 23. The natural trends of history emphasize every day the interdependence of all peoples.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“During the past twenty years national income has been greatly increased almost everywhere in the world, for the very reason that these have been years of peace, If we succeed in guaranteeing peace, we shall ensure an increase in commercial activity and also bring about an improvement in the terms of trade, which is one of the basic purposes of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development. 20. The principles of the United Nations presuppose that nations will live not in a system of economic self-sufficiency, but in a world of extensive international trade, That is why we have placed great hopes in the development of trade between East and West and devoted to it a substantial part of our resources, 21.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“We all, therefore, bear a heavy responsibility for our continuing failure to find any constructive answers to those questions, And that is why the ancient but never conquered mythology of violence and hate is rising again, Our future depends upon the course of international relations not only in the political but also in the economic field. In my country, for instance, foreign trade accounts for approximately one third of the national income. A lasting solution of the most serious social problems depends essentially on the rate of economic development. But how can we accelerate this development if we are compelled to increase our armaments?”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“But, instead of indulging in sterile criticism, let us admit once and for all that, wherever fault may be found, the fault is ours as well. 18. How can anyone say that the United Nations is unable to fulfil its duty if, whenever there is a need to intervene in order to settle a conflict, the instruments to do so are lacking? How can we help noticing that the United Nations is sometimes paralysed by the failure of Members to provide essential financial contributions which are often denied on the basis of questionable legal arguments? 19.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“I am thinking now of the enormous amount of good which could be done, for instance, by the whole family of specialized agencies, such as the Food and Agriculture Organization, the World Health Organization, the International Development Association and UNESCO, as well as the United Nations Development Fund and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, if our Governments gave them increasing financial support and greater political and moral backing. 17. We cannot, however, judge these agencies solely on the basis of their productivity expressed in economic terms, The fact is that they have also other functions, and this is particularly true of the institutions responsible for giving assistance to the developing countries. There are, to be sure, technical and managing shortcomings, and frequently also financial weaknesses.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“Words, of course, are not enough, especially when words serve to feed that demon of the modern world which we call propaganda. What we must do, before it is too late, is to propose ways and means to strengthen our world Organization, We must not give up because of past failures. Our courage today must lie in perseverance. The United Nations itself possesses the legal, technical and political capability to meet the challenge of current events and the challenge of new generations. 16.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“I must re-emphasize that international society today demands not weapons but economic and social reforms, Above all, it needs genuine land reforms capable of giving dignity to the thousand million poor peasants who could thus work their own lands, assisted by the powerful help made available to human labour by modern technology. 14. The Secretary-General has rightly drawn our attention to the serious decline of moral standards in international relations, But we cannot be satisfied by a mere declaration of this fact and indulge in easy criticism of the partial inability of the United Nations to solve the international conflicts of today. We must clearly proclaim that the United Nations must be strengthened, and we must indicate without delay how this can and must be done. 15.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)
“International society today demands not nuclear bombs but social reforms. The example set by the communist countries may he tragic because, instead of devoting their efforts to solving economic and social problems, they have delayed the evolution of international society, allocating a large proportion of their wealth to building one of the most powerful military arsenals ever seen in history. 12. On the other hand, we cannot help thinking of those areas in which social injustice is of such a magnitude as to arouse the indignation of all those who have sincerely abided by the provisions of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. 13.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)