YouSaid · the spoken record

GRIMES

lines on the record: 421
first: 1960-09-24
most recent: 1971-09-24
sittings or episodes: 12
sources: un-general-debate

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“It is mainly in the field of human activity involving measures to develop and improve economic, social and humanitarian co-operation that the work of the United Nations seems to be quietly but steadily progressing. Some effort has been made by the United Nations Development Program and the activities of the specialized agencies, and the success in these fields can be verified by rather impressive figures drawn from the reports on their work. 72. The field of human rights provides another positive aspect of United Nations activities. For example, in December 1948 the General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights [resolution 217 A (III)]. It was an important milestone setting an ideal for human rights throughout the world. Since then there has been a broad expansion of the United Nations Program in this field. 73.”
1970-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 25 (1970)
“The history of the United Nations over the past 25 years in relation to the hopes and aspirations of the peoples of the world expressed in the Charter leaves much to be desired. 70. Nevertheless, the test of success or failure of such an international organization co-ordinating and promoting international relations in the political, social, economic, technical, and cultural fields should not be measured by reverses in the political arena alone, for even here, there have been some successes. As already mentioned, several States now Members of this Organization doubtless obtained independence partly as a result of the efforts of the United Nations, and several conflicts have been avoided on account of the tactful and timely efforts of the United Nations. 71.”
1970-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 25 (1970)
“One of the principal difficulties which affects the progress of the United Nations stems from the provision of the Charter giving the veto power to the five permanent members of the Security Council. 68. As I have already stated, post-war developments have demonstrated that the veto has been misused to the detriment of the international community. The granting of special rights to a few States Members of the United Nations is undemocratic and the exercise of such a right seems arbitrary. My Government therefore recommends the abolition of this special right and suggests that, as in the General Assembly, majority votes should control decisions in the Security Council. 69.”
1970-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 25 (1970)
“Perhaps human thought and action must always be judged in the context of the related circumstances and pressures of the times, for in the thought and corresponding action at San Francisco at the formation of the Organization, based on the assumption of big Power unanimity, lay the most elementary fallacy. 66. No sooner had the Organization entered its infancy on that basic assumption than it became evident that the interests of the big Powers were different and sometimes opposed. Almost at once two super Powers emerged among the Big Five and developed into leaders in the cold war struggle, the result of which has had and continues to have an indelible effect on the United Nations. 67.”
1970-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 25 (1970)
“With the euphoria surrounding the approaching victory of the allied forces in the Second World War, and the apparent co-operation among the big Powers, there was an underlying assumption at San Francisco that understanding and co-operation among the big Powers, which had ensured success in the war would continue in times of peace, and that big Power cooperation would prevent further wars. It was hoped that the Charter would be an instrument of justice and orderliness in international relations, a basis of respect for fundamental human rights, human dignity and equal rights for all, a means by which social progress and better standards of life in larger freedom would be realized, a medium to promote tolerance and good neighborliness, and the machinery which would preserve international peace and security. 65.”
1970-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 25 (1970)
“This disappointment does not seem to stem from any constitutional restriction, as the Charter has proved to be remarkably adaptable under changing conditions and in the face of unforeseen challenges. 63. Moreover, this apparent failure cannot be ascribed conveniently to administration. The records show that the Secretaries-General of the United Nations have exemplified exceptional foresight and boldness. They have shown great dedication to their onerous responsibilities but they have not had the unflinching support to which they have been entitled during this period especially from the big Powers. 64.”
1970-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 25 (1970)
“A formula which would provide for a thenceforth peaceful world was expected by all a world in which wealthy nations would be ready, willing and eager to assist in raising the living standards and aiding the development of millions of the downtrodden; a world in which enjoyment of fundamental human rights and fundamental freedoms as well as respect for the dignity and worth of the human person would be respectively shared and practiced by all without distinction as to race, sex, language or religion. 62. Unfortunately, however, the principal aims and objectives of the United Nations outlined in the Charter have not yet been met. It is particularly regrettable that the obligation to maintain international peace has not been kept.”
1970-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 25 (1970)
“Since the birth of the United Nations, some 59 of these former dependent Territories have become independent nations and have joined the Organization itself. In little over a week the Fiji Islands will be ushered into independence and my Government extends its best wishes to the people of that Territory. 60. Concurrent with these changes have been the eagerness and response of over a billion people inhabiting more than one fourth of the surface of the earth, clamoring in their demand for economic and social justice. Youth, too, more than ever is making demands for a share in the organization and administration of society. 61. Twenty-five years ago in San Francisco, hopes were high.”
1970-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 25 (1970)
“The history of the United Nations, founded as an international organization of nations to maintain international peace, to promote international cooperation and to advance the general welfare of man, covers a period riddled with changes unparalleled in human history. 58. The outburst of scientific knowledge and inventions included, among other things, nuclear and thermonuclear discoveries and uses, outer space achievements including lunar expeditions and landings, the electronic use of satellites, and other advances. 59. Political development, too, has made tremendous strides during the last quarter of a century. In this period, much of the world consisting of hundreds of millions of people has thrown off the shackles of colonialism.”
1970-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 25 (1970)
“Beginning with the Atlantic Charter in 1941, the Declaration by the United Nations in 1942, the Moscow Declaration in 1943, and the Dumbarton Oaks conversations and proposals in 1944 as well as the Yalta Conference in 1945, the United Nations Conference on International Organization was convened in San Francisco and the Charter was drafted in 1945. 56. The United Nations thus appeared to be the modern world's response to catastrophe, man's inexorable and eternal search for peace as well as for the general improvement of conditions for productive exchanges and interrelationships among nations and peoples. 57.”
1970-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 25 (1970)
“This important session of the General Assembly convenes at a time when the United Nations effectiveness seems to be creating doubt rather than certainty and when international peace and security seem to be giving way to unrest and confusion. The observance of the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Organization is an ideal opportunity for reflection, stocktaking, reexamination and reappraisal. 55. In 1945, moved by the enormity of the destruction and the extent of human suffering of the Second World War, and stirred by prevailing world opinion stemming from the aspirations of millions of people, world states-men attempted to build an organization, universal in character and general in scope to influence the destiny of man.”
1970-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 25 (1970)
“A pall has fallen over this Assembly because of the sudden passing of a great and outstanding African leader, President Gamal Abdel Nasser of the United Arab Republic. This distinguished leader dedicated himself to the promotion of the interests of his people and worked untiringly for their advancement and development. He also lost himself in the cause of the Arab people. He was an affable and pragmatic person and he sought peace which unfortunately eluded him. The grief which his death has brought to his family and the Egyptian people is shared by all Africans and by people throughout the world. His untimely death is felt by us all. My delegation extends sincere sympathy to the delegation of the United Arab Republic. 54.”
1970-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 25 (1970)
“I should like to take advantage of this opportunity also to pay a deserved and justified tribute to your predecessor, Mrs. Angie Brooks-Randolph, of our own delegation who handled the deliberations of the twenty- fourth session of the General Assembly so ably as to merit the admiration and praise very readily and willingly accorded by all. 52. The energy, efforts, sincerity and devotion in the service of the United Nations, as well as the constant dedication to the cause of international peace and co-operation, manifested by the Secretary-General, continue to command and merit the complete respect and approbation of all. As he leads the Organization into its second quarter of a century, the delegation of Liberia wishes to reassure him of its continued support in the difficult days ahead. 53.”
1970-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 25 (1970)
“49. It gives me great pleasure, Mr. President, to extend to you sincere congratulations of the Liberian delegation and myself on your election as President of the twenty-fifth session of the General Assembly. 50. You bring to this high office a richness in experience not easily matched, a store of knowledge not readily equaled, and a brilliant career rare in age and fullness. With the experience you have gained from the founding of this Organization, I think we are indeed fortunate to have such a capable and seasoned scholar, diplomat and statesman as you, Mr. President, to guide and direct the deliberations of this Assembly. In wishing you well, let me assure you, on behalf of the Liberian delegation, of our co-operation and support. 51.”
1970-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 25 (1970)
“In conclusion, our world needs peace in our time. Technology and science continue to influence rapid change and progress. Our task is formidable. Change and progress must be channelled in a manner to ensure that man’s condition is bettered, his welfare protected and his general interest sought. At this session, the first after a major conquest in the celestial sphere, it is the hope of my delegation that our attention will be focused on this task and that some decisions will place us on the long but sure road to peace.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“The basis of that conviction lies in the fact that today the world of nations seems to be characterized by an unnatural and systematic economic disparity. I have always believed in the adage that no chain is stronger than its weakest link. The duty of the strong is, accordingly, clear and inevitable and, if performed, will be a basis for world stability. 81. The future of all endeavours in this field will depend in great measure upon the willingness of the economically strong to succour the weak, at least to a position of strength. If later generations of the developing nations are to acquire their deserved place among the developed nations of the world, an increasing number of States, both at the centre and at the periphery, must accept the challenge and the responsibility to struggle together to attain that goal. 82.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“Here lies the substance of the failure, the disappointment and, of course, the fear of the developing nations. 79. In recent years the part played by the developed countries has been recognized as important, if not indispensable, in world economic reconstruction, and it must not be allowed to drift away. An important element in this exercise is that the flow of assistance is a two-way carriage system; it provides advantages not only at its destination but also at its source and, measured over a long period of time, suitable recommendations must be devised for its continuance and improvement. 80. I am convinced that general economic improvement and stability are necessary to ensure international peace and security.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“On the pronouncement by the Assembly of the Second United Nations Development Decade [see resolution 2411 (XXIII)], pursuant to a recommendation by the Trade and Development Board, common hopes and common aspirations were high. Accordingly, the Group of Seventy-Seven convened a meeting of the Inter-Governmental Group of UNCTAD early this year, but the results were frustrating on account of the new, noticeable trend of the developed countries to reduce aid to developing countries. Such an attitude creates an extremely delicate situation. We were flooded with concepts such as “normalization and expansion of trade”, “overlapping activities” and “economic independence” as though they had some definite content in a vacuum. Such generalities, however well meant, will not serve.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“Knowledge of the sea-bed, unlike knowledge of outer space, is more easily accessible on account of the sea-bed’s proximity, and therefore the situation is more likely to produce friction if preventive measures are not urgently provided. 77. I submit that the solution of this problem is not as easy as it may seem, and I agree that at the moment the outlook is not promising. It is worth emphasizing that we shall not succeed by any attempt to put new wine in old barrels. The solution will have to be new and ingeniously devised to accommodate all the interests of mankind as a whole, relating to the entire marine environment. 78. The economic situation in the world is bleak and disheartening. The First United Nations Development Decade has been a failure.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“The hope had not been spared for positive recommendations to the Assembly by the special committee. During the meeting of the Committee, the Liberian representative stressed the urgent need to provide for a régime to regulate activities in the area in order to avoid possible conflicts, but he observed the over-cautious attitude assumed by some members. 76. While it would be a mistake to assume that technological changes, even when revolutionary, inevitably presuppose new legal adaptations, in the last century they created a wholly new social structure out of which new relations became imperative — just as in the realm of outer space today, technological progress has demanded the creation of new relations.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“That is indeed regrettable because peace-keeping is an important function of our Organization and should not be dependent on ad hoc financing solutions. 74. A similar disappointment applies to the question of the sea-bed, the ocean floor and the subsoil thereof beyond the limits of national jurisdiction. Realizing the importance of securing peace in that unexplored area of the globe, the General Assembly appointed a special committee to study the elaboration of legal principles and norms which would promote co-operation in the area. A satisfactory result has not yet been reached in that field. 75. Scientific and technological advancements are well ahead of provisions to avoid and prevent in the area threats to, or violations of, international peace and security.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“We must be aware that we must earnestly seek solutions to the many problems which create tensions, especially since they are causes for armament. We must remove apprehensions and suspicions and create conditions of mutual respect and mutual confidence so as to maintain international peace and security. Regrettably, expectations have been disappointed. 72. On the matter of disarmament my delegation desires to endorse the proposal of the Secretary-General in the introduction to his annual report for a Disarmament Decade in the 1970s [A/7601/Add.1, paras. 40-43]. 73. The Committee organized on the initiative of the former Foreign Minister of the Republic of Ireland [resolution 2006 (XIX)] has not yet been successful in recommending an acceptable formula for the proper financing of peace-keeping operations.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“It is necessary that Members rededicate themselves to giving their complete and unqualified support to its work, to assuring unequivocal and earnest implementation of its decisions, and to evidencing a positive reaction that the Organization must concentrate if it is to meet the demands of the community of nations. 70. This growing need for general progress in the work of the Organization also applies to the work of the Conference of the Committee on Disarmament. Disarmament is one of the crucial issues in the world. Yet there has been no real progress towards disarmament and I wonder whether we are not backsliding. Armaments are increasing and chemical and bacteriological weapons are being added to the mounting stocks. 71.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“But expediency seems to be dictating the diffident, timid and faint-hearted policy of the permanent members of the Security Council. 69. It is certainly not an exaggeration to say that the Organization has not been able to get hold of the whole, problem of southern Africa. The world reserves of capacity to control the atrocious suppression of human rights in African Territories under Portuguese domination, Rhodesia, Namibia and South Africa are considerable. The failure to exert appropriate pressures on the authorities there have resulted from the imbalance of often conflicting interests, confused aspirations and misdirected tendencies. Perhaps it is precisely in that direction that the Organization will have to turn in order to be able to ensure the effectiveness of its majority decisions.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“Let me recall a warning in my statement to the twenty-third session of the General Assembly: “...it is in Portugal’s own interest to formulate new policies which will enable the peoples in the territories under its domination to make a free choice of the future direction they desire to pursue. It will sooner or later be forced to do this, even if it refuses now, by historical events which it cannot control“ [1698th meeting, para, 59]. 68. In the Lusaka Manifesto on Southern Africa adopted by the Fifth Summit Conference of East and Central African States on 16 April 1969, it was asserted that the world has a responsibility to take action against South Africa in defence of humanity. That Manifesto was adopted at the sixth session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the Organization of African Unity.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“If this Organization is to perpetuate itself effectively, there appears to be a desperate need for some of its Members to re-evaluate their attitudes and responsibilities regarding the United Nations, its purposes and its expectations. 66. The result of the perennial adjuration to the Portuguese Government to revise its attitude and observe the resolution calling for the granting to the inhabitants of its Territories the right to self-determination is frustration. Repression and oppression constitute the mark of that Government in its dependent Territories. Contempt alone has been its reaction to international public opinion and the commands of this Organization. 67.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“It indeed appears to be an anomaly to regard the one-time apparently pitilessly and consistently democratic Kingdom of Great Britain sitting by and permitting a flouting of its political system by a handful of rebels. The history of that major country is irreconcilable and curiously contrasted with its tentative and at times almost apologetic approaches to the Rhodesian problem. 65. Ian Smith seems successfully to have disregarded even the decisions of the Security Council. That has been made possible because of the acts of some big Powers designed to beguile this Organization and also because of South Africa and Portugal, which have not abided by the decisions of the Security Council concerning sanctions.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“This mockery of law and justice is something concrete which calls for proper action by the United Kingdom. Its negligence or refusal to give effect to the decisions of this Assembly is indeed regrettable, to say the least. On the other hand, the so-called referendum staged by the illegal régime by which it claims majority support for declaring itself a republic, has probably interjected into the illegal process the fear of displeasure or the hope of favour in respect of those who could have made their will felt in an act which not only corrupted the event but also compounded the illegal acts of the rebels. It is difficult for the United Kingdom to excuse itself of responsibility for the consequences of the acts of the Smith régime.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“It appears that the price the United Nations has had to pay in respect of the continued power of the illegal Ian Smith régime and its declaration of a lawless political parturition is indeed a painful one. The Smith régime should not be allowed to enforce its rebellious will arbitrarily upon the innocent people of Zimbabwe. 64. In spite of General Assembly resolution 2379 (XXIII) of 25 October 1968, calling on the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland not to grant independence to Southern Rhodesia unless that independence was preceded by the establishment of a government based on free elections by universal adult suffrage and majority rule, the Southern Rhodesian rebels have been permitted to set up an illegal republic.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“Admittedly, such records, considered within the framework of the Organization and its activities, are of partial importance when they relate to the disappointing attitude of only a single Member, but they are nevertheless fundamental. 62. Accordingly, it is indeed unfortunate that the Organization has been unable, in spite of the expressions of condemnation so frequently voiced here, to take actions required to reverse the trend established by South Africa in Namibia. We cannot expect to construct world order and peace in the face of such undesirable behaviour. 63. Recent radical developments in the Rhodesian situation emphasize contradictions that seem to complicate the situation and test the ability of this Organization to deal with such problems.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“The persistent disregard by the South African Government for the principles and ideals of the United Nations is incongruous and in fact incompatible with its membership of the Organization. This fact, unpleasant though it may be to some, must be squarely faced by us. 61. A main objective of the United Nations is to maintain international peace and security. While much of this responsibility rests with the collective and concerted determination of the membership of the Organization, individual Members are no less responsible for refraining from indulging in acts blatantly designed to challenge the United Nations. There are extensive records on the question of South Africa’s questionable attitude in this respect.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“Yet the fate of Namibia hangs in the balance, the Namibians themselves being helpless against the political formula with which they are subjugated by South Africa, The repudiation by South Africa of the United Nations Commission for Namibia and the illegal condemnation of Namibian freedom fighters, at almost regular intervals, in order to establish sovereignty in Namibia amount to an obsession on the part of the South African Government. These pernicious practices, haphazard as they may be in origin, and even devoid of legality, undermine the United Nations, which the majority of the peoples of the world regard as the only hope for a new world order where man’s inhumanity to man will cease and true brotherhood prevail.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“The effects of this problem, one of the most difficult with which this Organization has had to contend, continue to cast an ominous shadow over the efforts of the United Nations; and it seems that the success or failure of these efforts may in the end turn upon whether the black African population in South Africa can survive its ordeal and upon whether we shall accept the ultimate power and value of the Organization to be measured by the whims of the South African Government. 60. However, as if this aberration were not enough, the South African Government is applying this obnoxious policy to Namibia, a Mandated Territory, which is now a United Nations responsibility as a result of the revocation of the Mandate.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“Perhaps one of the oldest problems with which this Organization has had to grapple since its creation has been the problem in southern Africa. Coextensive with the problem itself has been the acerbity with which the Government of South Africa has deliberately and openly ignored the principles of the United Nations. Within its own borders, the attitude of South Africa is very disturbing. That Government, by its adherence to the invidious policy of apartheid, baseless in fact and morally monstrous, has violated the laws of humanity and the resolutions of this Organization. By its abominable racial policy designed systematically to deny the majority of the population basic and fundamental rights, the South African Government lays the snare for racial conflict. 59.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“Some colonial Powers show no respect for the principles of the Charter and the principles enunciated by the Organization and ignore the expressed will of all its Members as embodied in the resolutions of the Assembly. When that happens, the image of the United Nations is impaired, its prestige drops, and support among the world’s peoples dwindles. More importantly, since a people determined to enjoy the benefits of freedom cannot be prevented from doing so eventually even under the worst forms of oppression, violence is inevitably produced, resulting in conflicts which constitute threats to international peace—threats which might evaporate if positive action were taken to accord the peoples of dependent Territories the right to determine their own destiny. 58.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“The General Assembly, during its fifteenth session, in resolution 1514 (XV) declared, inter alia, that all peoples under alien subjugation have a right to self-determination and that, in Trust and Non-Self-Governing Territories or all other Territories which have not attained independence, all powers must be transferred to the peoples of those Territories without any conditions or reservations or pretexts, in accordance with their freely expressed will and desire. 57. Unfortunately and regrettably, those aims have not been fully implemented. My delegation finds itself utterly bewildered by the continued dominance of colonial Powers in the dependent Territories in the face of such unambiguous principles universally accepted. The popular aspirations of peoples in some areas are being systematically denied.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“In Viet-Nam, the Paris talks have not yet brought the result for which the world had hoped. In Korea and Germany tension seems to fluctuate. I think we should accept the fact that a particular kind of government or ideology should not be imposed on a people, since that will not provide the security which seems to be the basis for peace. The will of the people should be allowed to be exercised in a situation free from the threat of force and when exercised it should be respected by all. 55. The tragic civil war in Nigeria continues, but the Organization of African Unity is making every effort to bring about a peaceful settlement through negotiations. 56.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“On 22 November 1967 the Security Council unanimously adopted resolution 242 (1967), which provides a reasonable basis for a settlement. It appears that the explosive situation has been complicated by a web of tangled interests, the adjustment of which calls for extraordinary selfless efforts. Great expectations and hopes have rested on the initiatives of the big-four meetings started earlier this year. If a catastrophe is to be avoided, keener attention should be focused on the dangers this problem engenders and we hope that the big four and the parties involved will discharge the heavy responsibility which a peaceful settlement binding on both sides involves. In any case all of us should use our best efforts to assist in bringing peace to that area. 54. Then too there is the problem of divided countries: Viet-Nam, Korea and Germany.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“It is our human wills that are at fault, not our energy. We shall succeed in matching achievements in the realm of peace and security with technological advancement only if we learn to afford ourselves the opportunity of bringing out the best that lies within us. Improvement and success in our endeavours for peace throughout the world will therefore depend largely upon our genuine willingness and sincere efforts not only to eliminate disorders but also to prevent them. 52. There are several problems in various parts of the world which are dangerous to the cause of world peace. 53. Day after day in the Middle East there are reports of incidents and tensions indicating that the cease-fire is no longer being observed by either side.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“In other words, the world community has the responsibility of developing a new and meaningful approach during this new era in its attempts to ensure peace among men and nations. 51. Another difficulty seems to be based in time. It is one thing to obtain command over the undesirable forces which plague us and to acquire the mastery that command may give us in ordering our fate. It is another thing, however, to consider the question of appropriateness in time. Certainly, we do not have a lifetime in which to enable us to devise methods to accommodate private machinations. It seems to me that the chief obstacle to our success lies not in our capacity and power, but in the selfish positions and methods which have otherwise been assumed and which remain so little changed amid our new and recent accomplishments.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“What seems to be necessary is an open and positive commitment by the United Nations, condemning recourse to war and renouncing it as an instrument of national policy, as was done in the Kellogg-Briand Pact in 1928; and when this is done, we need to adhere strictly to such outlawing of force since it could be one means by which a global war might be averted and mankind saved from annihilation. 49. Our difficulty in our present approach is inherent. It arises from selfish preoccupations and our apparent unwillingness to try to understand and deal with some of the basic problems that increasingly call for fair and just solutions in a world being made smaller and smaller by technological advances. 50. Our efforts should be concentrated on the development of effective measures to reduce present dangers and remove apprehensions.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“The total commitment of the Liberian Government to universal peace, which involves the maintenance of peace both at home and abroad, was, as I stated in my address to the twenty-third session of the Assembly [1698th meeting], proclaimed by President Tubman Himself in January 1968. 48. Experience has shown that the obligation to settle international disputes by peaceful means, as laid down in the Charter, is evidently not sufficiently effective to check the present belligerent tendency among States.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“Unfortunately, it does not appear to me that our efforts to secure and maintain international peace have matched our success in technological achievements. I share the view that the wide programmes for celestial conquests, together with the recent laudable achievement, further indicate the greater need for peace in this world and more concern for man’s welfare. We cannot afford to shift aimlessly from one crisis to another, merely hoping that it will not result in some disaster. It is both uncomfortable and very dangerous because recurrences of a series of crises of an unbridled nature may eventually place us in the unfortunate position where we may find ourselves unable. to prevent a final but disastrous plunge into an abyss which could bring us painful suffering, grim destruction and appalling calamity.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“One of the hallmarks of such.an outstanding achievement is the interest which it should generate in the new and challenging situations involving several political, social and economic programmes, approaches, disciplines and reactions. These situations occur in varying degrees in every nook and cranny of the earth. The individual local condition will, of course, determine the extent and magnitude of the predicament but the general trend will be the same. The movement is one in time and the effects cannot be breached by any conventional methods. 46. Already, the world has been advised to expect more lunar landings that are now planned and which may be launched by more than one country. We must prepare to meet the challenges which consequently must of necessity be presented outside the fields of science and technology. 47.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“In wishing him success in his difficult tasks, I confirm to him the continuing support of the Government of Liberia and our best wishes that his relentless efforts will be crowned with abundant success. 44. The twenty-fourth session of the General Assembly convenes at a time when the world is still exhilarated at man’s conquest in the realm of the celestial bodies — the lunar landing. The recent lunar expedition is incontestably one of man’s greatest achievements. It opens up a new vista in the field of science and a broad avenue in the development of technology; but it also imposes upon us an awesome responsibility for the welfare and interest of mankind. 45.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“Emilio Arenales of Guatemala, who so ably and soberly presided over the twenty-third session of the General Assembly, a performance which readily and easily won for him the praise and esteem so willingly accorded by all of us. His death is a loss not only to his great country but also to the Organization and to all of us who admired and respected him. 43. The Secretary-General of the United Nations, U Thant, is as usual conscientious, imaginative and resourceful. His constant search for solutions to world problems and his devotion to the cause of international peace and security are the greatest emblems of his efforts and contributions in a world of contradictions, inequalities, misunderstanding and strife.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“You have shown distinction in the Foreign Service of Liberia and we are confident that the capacity and ability you have so pleasingly and satisfactorily demonstrated in international affairs will enable you to handle with aplomb the complex matters that will come before you. 41. The discretion you exercise, the decisions you make, the footprints you leave during your term, will, we hope, influence our course towards international peace and security. In the words of Goethe, I say to you: Choose well, your choice is Brief and yet endless; Here eyes do regard you, Work and despair not. 42. I now take the opportunity of recording a well-deserved and justified tribute to your deceased and outstanding predecessor, H.E.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“Today, we are fortunate in having another woman, equally capable, whose warmth, perspicacity and prudence will be tested by the existing and pressing problems of a world fraught with misgivings, suspicions and apprehension. 39. You also have a special place among Africans as the first woman of this advancing continent to occupy this position. As an African, I salute you. 40. I am more particularly happy as the head of the Liberian delegation to share the pride of your fellow citizens on your election to this prominent position. Your successful election is a manifestation of the esteem in which the Members of this Assembly hold our continent in general, and our country, one of the founding Members of the United Nations, in particular.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“37. I offer you, Madam President, the profound and sincere felicitations of the Liberian delegation and myself on your election to the eminent position of President of the twenty-fourth session of the General Assembly of the United Nations. Your continuous association with the Assembly, your active and appreciable participation in the affairs of the United Nations over a remarkably extended period of time, as well as your dedication to duty, provide us with the pleasure of having as our presiding officer one who is not only familiar with international affairs but also experienced in the operations of our esteemed Organization. 38. Many of us remember the astuteness, sagacity, understanding, sympathy and penetrating intellect which characterized the presidency of Mrs. Pandit of India, who led the eighth session of the General Assembly.”
1969-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 24 (1969)
“Finally, conditions of tension, unrest, instability and frustration which have caused a deterioration in the world situation require that our best efforts be directed towards facilitating progress towards a just and lasting peace, for the alternative might be very catastrophic. 71. It is in this spirit that the Liberian delegation at this session will approach the several items on our agenda with the hope that working co-operatively decisions can be made at this Assembly which will move us ahead on the path of positive and creative action in the search for peace and international co-operation.”
1968-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 23 (1968)