YouSaid · the spoken record
Rithauddeen
THE RECORD WRITES THIS SPEAKER AS RITHAUDDEEN
- lines on the record
- 136
- first
- 1975-09-24
- most recent
- 1980-09-24
- sittings or episodes
- 5
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- un-general-debate
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“Other matters equally important to the developing countries relate to the multilateral trade negotiations, the transfer of resources in real terms to developing countries, debt and food problems of developing countries, the conversion of UNIDO into a specialized agency, the reorganization of the international financial and monetary system and adequate and appropriate preparations for the new international development strategy. We hope that the negotiations on these problems in their respective forums will be able to achieve real progress as soon as possible before 1980, so that the special session of the General Assembly to be held in that year may be assured of success.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“One issue that is of direct concern to my delegation is the establishment of the common fund, as well as the Integrated Programme for Commodities, the importance of which to the majority of developing countries hardly needs any further elaboration here. We hope that the resumption of the negotiating conference on the common fund scheduled for next month will end successfully with a decision for the expeditious operation of the Fund. 159.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“That panacea is nothing less than complete and outright structural changes in the existing outmoded pattern of international economic relations, to be achieved only with the establishment of the New International Economic Order. 157. To that end, we would urge the developed countries to demonstrate, as they have not done before, sincere and genuine political goodwill and to undertake a positive commitment to negotiate seriously and meaningfully with the developing countries for concrete and mutually beneficial agreements on the many issues at present featured in the North-South dialogue, with a view to finding a lasting solution to them. 158.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“The hardships being experienced by the developing countries are further intensified by the current depressing state of the world economy as a result mainly of divergent and uncoordinated economic policies pursued by the major industrially developed countries without giving due attention and regard to the interests of the developing countries. It seems ironic and indeed unbelievable that what has been and is happening on the international economic scene in the last couple of years has been completely against and in direct contradiction of all that for which the developing countries are clamouring. 156. As my delegation see? it, there is only one way in which we could all overcome the .recurring problems responsible for the chaotic situation of the global economy.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“Unfortunately, despite the acceptance of the importance and value of equal partnership in international economic co-operation, little progress has been made in practical action towards its implementation. This unsatisfactory state of affairs, as well as the lack of real progress in other areas of relevance to the establishment of the New International Economic Order, is a matter of serious concern to the developing countries, as reflected in the declaration of the Foreign Ministers of the Group of 77, who met in New York on 29 September [A/331278, annex].”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“Hence, it is not only expected of, but also imperative for, the United Nations, as an international forum with universal participation, to be actively involved in the process of global negotiations relating to the establishment of the New International Economic Order, to which my Government is fully committed. For this reason, my delegation reiterates its full support for the mandate of the Committee Established under General Assembly Resolution 32/174, or the Committee of the Whole, on the establishment of that New Economic Order. The Committee cannot and must not fail in its task, since there is no alternative to it within the United Nations system if the United Nations is to play a major and meaningful role and to contribute positively towards the promotion of global economic interdependence. 155.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“The special session devoted to disarmament, it will be recalled, has noted the interest of the countries in the region in the establishment of such a zone in South-East Asia. There is indeed growing support for the proposal, and we are confident that the discussion on the matter will produce further progress towards its implementation. 154. An equally, if not more, important task for the United Nations now and in the years ahead is to address itself fully to the prevailing multifarious international economic problems by continually keeping up the momentum of the North-South dialogue until the solution to those problems is found.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“The participation of all the countries in South-East Asia is all the more imperative now in the present situation, and only through co-operation can we act in concert in shaping the evolution of a peaceful, prosperous and stable South-East Asia for the well-being of our peoples. 153. Malaysia is also committed to the establishment of a zone of peace, freedom and- neutrality in South-East Asia. The return to peaceful and stable conditions in the region would be an important contribution towards realizing such a concept. We believe that the establishment of such a zone free from outside interference and big-Power rivalry would secure for the region lasting peace and stability.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“Let me turn next to the situation in my part of the world, South-East Asia. Malaysia, together with our other partners in the Association of South East Asian Nations, has always been strongly committed to promoting friendship, understanding and co-operation among the countries in South-East Asia. We believe that it is through regional co-operation that we can harness our efforts and resources to promote the well-being of our people. The Association is indeed strongly committed to regionalism, and, in translating this concept into practice, we are creating the conditions that would be conducive not only to forging greater understanding but also to bringing about long-term peace and stability that would be to the interest of all the countries in the region. It is a task which should be shared by all.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“I think the Assembly will agree with me that more urgent action is needed both multilaterally through concerted action in the United Nations, which bears the primary responsibility in this field, and bilaterally, particularly between the two leading nuclear-weapon States in the context of the negotiations proceeding within the framework of the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks. We do, indeed, live in a finite world, and certainly the resources released from military expenditures could usefully be diverted to economic development, particularly for the developing countries. We look forward to the early conclusion of a comprehensive test-ban treaty and to negotiations to begin the process of genuine disarmament, particularly nuclear disarmament, so that we can live in a world free from the constant threat of destruction. 152.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“The Security Council should urgently consider the application of such mandatory sanctions before the situation erupts into open violence. 151. In the field of disarmament, the problem of the escalating arms race continues to pose a serious threat to international peace and security. The principles and priorities for disarmament negotiations drawn up by the tenth special session, on disarmament [see resolution S-10/2] should be implemented as soon as possible. We •hope the deliberative and negotiating bodies established by the special session will give priority attention to drawing up measures that will halt and reverse the wasteful arms race, stop all nuclear-weapon tests and reduce the stockpiles of nuclear weapons with a view to their complete elimination.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“On the contrary, that regime has intensified its oppression and instituted bantustans which are aimed at depriving the people of the Territory of their citizenship and legitimate rights. It is indeed a tragic situation where millions of the people there are still unable to enjoy their birthright and to live in peace, justice and equality. The recent World Conference to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination has condemned apartheid in the strongest terms and urged more concrete international action to eradicate this evil from our midst [see A/33/2621. My delegation has always held the view that no measure which does not include economic sanctions, including an oil embargo, would be effective in changing the policy of the South African regime.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“In Southern Rhodesia, the fraudulent internal settlement by the racist Smith regime can never provide a just solution to the problem. There can be no solution unless it is based on the wishes of the black majority, including the Patriotic Front. The so-called internal settlement is nothing but a deliberate and systematic plan designed to consolidate white racist minority rule. We reject this deceptive act. No permanent solution to the problem is possible unless it is consistent with the principle of majority rule, so as to ensure the right of the people of Zimbabwe to self-determination, justice, equality and freedom. 150. In South Africa, there is still no visible sign of a change in the apartheid policies of the racist regime.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“In the view of my delegation, the Secretary- General's proposals for the establishment of the United Nations transition Assistance Group provide the best means for ensuring the peaceful and orderly transition of the Territory to independence. We fully support these proposals, which are embodied in the recently adopted Security Council resolution 435 (1978); 148. It would indeed be a tragedy if South Africa at this stage turned its back and refused to co-operate with the United Nations in setting in motion the peace-keeping operations in Namibia. We call on South Africa to show political goodwill and to assist Namibia's accession to independence within the framework of the Security Council resolution, so that the people of the Territory will be able to enjoy the legitimate rights so long denied to them. 149.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“But once again we are faced with a recalcitrant and intransigent racist regime in South Africa, which is bent on obstructing the efforts of the United Nations to bring about a peaceful transition to majority rule and independence in that country. South Africa's decision to go ahead and conduct its own elections in Namibia in defiance of the United Nations poses a serious obstacle to the progress of the settlement proposals that have been agreed upon. Surely, no independence can be genuine if it does not include the participation of SWAPO. 147. We deplore these obstructionist tactics, which demonstrate too clearly that the racist regime is not prepared to relinquish its illegal control of the Territory. If South Africa persists in pursuing this course, the Security Council must take a firm decision to impose full mandatory sanctions.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“It is a matter of satisfaction that there is universal recognition of the need for more resolute action to eradicate this abnormality of our times. The process of decolonization assumes increasing urgency as we face ruthless attempts by the colonialist regimes to entrench their minority rule. In southern Africa, the people continue to be deprived of their fundamental freedom and their rights to self-determination and independence. Attempts to end the unacceptable situation in Namibia, Zimbabwe and South Africa have been frustrated by more repressive policies of the racist minority regimes there. 146. Earlier this year we were looking forward to the independence of Namibia.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“We also hold strongly that Israel must desist from changing the natural, political, cultural, religious and demographic characteristics of the occupied territories. 144. At the Ninth Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers held in Dakar, Senegal, in April this year, the position of that Conference was very clearly defined. Israel's continued illegal occupation of Arab territories, including the Holy City of Jerusalem, cannot be accepted. The Holy City of Jerusalem in particular is dear to all Islamic countries and Moslems all over the world, and any act by Israel to alter the Arab Islamic status of the City and desecrate the Islamic monuments there is to be condemned. 145. The struggle against colonialism, apartheid and racism remains high on the priority list of the agenda of the United Nations.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“It is a tragic situation that has inflicted untold sufferings on many. It is surely the duty of the international community to leave no stone unturned in the quest for a lasting and comprehensive solution that will end the sufferings of the people and enable them to live in peace and security. 143. It is in this context that my Government welcomes any initiative aimed at bringing this about. While doing so, let me also reiterate here our position, namely, that a just and comprehensive settlement of the problem can be achieved only if it is predicated, first, on the complete and unconditional withdrawal of Israel from all Arab occupied territories and, secondly on the realization of the inalienable national rights of the Palestinian people, including the right to self-determination.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“We must accept that the pursuit of international peace and security is, after all, a dynamic process, and that it is through co-operation, understanding and tolerance that we can reach out to seek viable solutions to international problems. Indeed the importance of this process should not be underestimated. My delegation hopes that it will be given further impetus at this thirty-third session. For our part, I should like to reaffirm the commitment of the Government of Malaysia to its promotion, so that we can successfully attain the goals and objectives of the United Nations. 142. Indeed, the continuation of this process of cooperation is all the more imperative in serious problem areas such as the Middle East and southern Africa. Peace has eluded the people in the Middle East for far too long.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“The decisions of the tenth special session on disarmament give us much hope that world peace and security will be strengthened through the start of the process of genuine disarmament. Indeed, those positive developments reflect a universal recognition of the fact that the United Nations forum, still offers us the best hope for the solution of conflicts and world problems. As the Secretary-General pointed out in his report, "... our greatest problems can only, be handled by multilateral action... Used properly, for example, the United Nations can be the instrument for overcoming much of the sense of mistrust and insecurity which makes so many international problems insoluble." [See A/3311, sect. I.] 141.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“As we begin the thirty-third session, we can perhaps draw some satisfaction from positive' trends that have emerged during the course of this year. For one thing, our deliberations have increasingly been characterized by a willingness to accommodate each other through a spirit of tolerance and understanding. We have proved that through the continuing dialogue in which we are engaged we can work in harmony rather than divisiveness. It is as if we were now embarking on a new era of positive international co-operation. 140. This year alone, the General Assembly has held important special sessions, resulting in decisions which have significantly advanced international understanding and cooperation.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“The process of detente and world peace continues to be threatened by the expansion of bloc divisions and rivalries and the escalating arms race. We have no illusions as to the obstacles that stand in the way of the efforts of this Organization to arrest this dangerous development. The point is that there is still much tension, mistrust and suspicion, which have accumulated over the years from the negative consequences of two world wars. While this holds true, I do not think we should be disheartened by what we have failed to achieve. Let us instead dip further into the reservoir of our goodwill and with renewed vigour dedicate ourselves to the search for viable solutions to the more urgent problems that continue to beset us. 139.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“Although we have seen some positive developments in some areas, the balance-sheet of the world situation in substantive terms has unfortunately continued to be weighted on the debit side. The world is still ridden with conflicts, antagonism, mistrust, poverty and under-development. The agenda before, us, which is again laden with pressing issues of oven helming proportions and urgency, reflects in the main a situation of uncertainty and in some areas a feeling of frustration. Indeed, the non-aligned countries at their recent Conference in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, pointed out the general crisis situation in the world today [see A/331206}, at a time when we are again faced with dangers of the resurgence of cold-war politics and the persistence of rising tensions and conflicts. 138.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“His outstanding contribution to the success of these sessions won our profound admiration. 136. The delegation of Malaysia warmly welcomes this admission of Solomon Islands as the one hundred and fiftieth Member of our Organization. Accession of that Territory to independence in July this year indeed augurs well, for the remaining Non-Self-Governing Territories which have yet to emerge from the bondage of colonialism. This is a tribute to the important role played by the United Nations in the field of decolonization. My delegation looks forward to close co-operation with the delegation of Solomon Islands within and outside the United Nations system. 137. It is customary for us to come here each year to review our achievements and express our views on the current world situation.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“134. On behalf of my delegation I should like first of all to congratulate Mr. Indalecio Lievano on his election as President of the thirty-third session of the General Assembly. His election to that high office is a tribute, to him personally and. to the constructive and positive role played by Colombia in the work of the United Nations. I wish Mr. Lievano every success in his task and assure him that my delegation will give him our fullest co-operation. 135. I would like also to convey our congratulations and deep appreciation to Mr Lievano's predecessor, Mr. Lazar Mojsov, who presided over the deliberations of the thirty- second session and the three important special sessions of the General Assembly with such great distinction, devotion and efficiency.”
1978-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 33 (1978)
“Negotiations on the program provide the international community with yet another opportunity to harmonize their interests in the areas of raw materials and primary commodities. The satisfactory solution to those crucial problems is vital to the establishment of a new international economic order. 131. We have now before us an opportunity to build a new international economic framework wherein Jill nations might enjoy harmonious and just relations. With renewed determination and in .genuine co-operation, let us, both developed and developing countries, respond courageously and decisively to this difficult but momentous challenge.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“I do not intend to review the decisions taken at the fourth session of UNCTAD, but would like to focus attention on the question of commodities and state once again that Malaysia will not cease to participate in and actively support the quest for a better and satisfactory trading relationship between producers and consumers. We have always regarded the problem of commodities as a matter of crucial importance, the approach to which must be multidimensional. In this regard, the integrated program for commodities, with its core elements of buffer stocks and the common fund, provides a comprehensive approach to commodity problems and merits our particular serious consideration during the forthcoming months.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“Let me take this opportunity to record my delegation's confidence and hope that the positive interaction and continuation of dialog between the developed and developing countries would enhance and accelerate our common endeavors to realize agreed objectives as well as to reach consensus on issues that remain unresolved, including the elimination of restrictive trade measures against exports from developing countries, pro-motion of measures for transfer of technology and reform of the international financial and monetary system. 130.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“Over the past few months, the international community has had occasion to meet together to discuss and to seek solutions to pressing economic problems and issues. My delegation views the fourth session of UNCTAD as a key stage in the search for solutions to those crucial economic problems that beset the world, and particularly the developing countries. The-results of that session fell short of our expectations and we too are deeply disappointed at the limited nature of agreements reached at Nairobi. 129. However, the intensive negotiations conducted there have stimulated and strengthened the wholesome trend of dialog between nations.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“restructuring and creation of a more equitable economic order have been accepted by the developed countries with reluctance, or even without any intention of their pursuit. Let us not deceive ourselves that resolutions and rhetoric at international forums will help to narrow the gap between the developed and developing worlds and move us on the path towards a new economic order. The successful implementation of agreed decisions for the establishment of the new order is a collective responsibility that demands our shouldering with unwavering faith, co-operation and political commitment. Any further delay or postponement of such concerted action would only engender economic tensions detrimental to the interests of all mankind. 128.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“The many and acute disparities between the developed and developing countries have long been identified, and the demand for remedial measures has been well articulated consistently by the developing world. The sixth and seventh special sessions of the General > Assembly, the adoption of the Declaration and Program of Action on the Establishment of a New International Economic Order [resolutions 3201 (S-VI) and 3202 (S-VI)J, and of the Charter of Economic Rights and Duties of States [resolution 3281 (XXIX)], advanced both recognition and endorsement- of the need to change the existing international economic structure. 127. More often than not, statements of principle and decisions concerning the.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“We would like to commend the efforts of .the Secretary-General in promoting the inter- communal talks, and hope that his efforts to bring about meaningful and constructive negotiations will meet with success. 125. We have now entered into the, second half of the Second United Nations Development Decade. The lagging over-all performance of the first half reminds us of the urgent need for improvement and redoubling of efforts during the remaining years of the Decade to. ensure the attainment of the targets set out in the International Development Strategy. 126. The interdependence of nations and global economic problems are realities that confront the world community; they require no emphasis.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“As a member of the Special Committee Against Apartheid, Malaysia pledges to continue working earnestly with the other members towards the complete eradication of the obnoxious and abhorrent racist policy of the Pretoria regime. 124. In Cyprus, the situation is both complex and dangerous. It is heartening to note that the non-aligned summit Conference in Colombo has supported the continuation of meaningful and constructive negotiations between the representatives of the Greek-Cypriot and Turkish- Cypriot communities. It is our view that, to succeed, the negotiations must be conducted in the spirit of goodwill and accommodation and must give expression to the rights and interests of both communities on an equal footing, and based on the principle of equal participation on all international forums.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“We reiterate our support to the Namibian people in their legitimate struggle for self-determination and independence, and we deplore any deceitful action on the part of the Vorster regime to delay in restoring Namibia to its rightful inhabitants. 123. As for South Africa, recent events have served to underscore the barbarity and ruthlessness of the white racist regime. We deplore the Soweto massacre and regret the loss of lives which it has caused. That tragic event and other recent outbreaks of discontent serve to show beyond any doubt that the evil policy of apartheid by the South African regime can have only one inevitable consequence, and that is violence.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“It is our hope that the negotiations for a speedy transfer to majority rule can bring about a change is the situation which will prevent the eruption of an explosive tragedy in that part of the world. In this context, such a tragedy is inevitable if the illegal minority regime continues to remain intransigent. Malaysia joins other member countries in reaffirming support for the people of Zimbabwe in their just struggle to achieve majority rule. 122. In Namibia, my delegation fully associates itself with the efforts of the United Nations to put an end to South Africa's illegal occupation of that Territory.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“However, there still remains an area in South-East Asia where this august body at its last session has called upon the administering Power to facilitate expeditiously the holding of free and democratic elections by the appropriate government authorities in accordance with the inalienable rights of the people to self-determination and independence. I refer to the territory of Brunei. Malaysia would urge the responsible authorities to respond positively as early as possible to General Assembly resolution 3424 (XXX) so that the people of Brunei will not be denied their inalienable rights. 121. With regard to the situation in southern Africa, there is optimism that acceptance of the inevitability of majority rule by the illegal minority regime in Southern Rhodesia may yet avert the ghastly consequences of a racial, war.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“Consequently, we fully support the participation of the Palestine Liberation Organization, on an equal footing with all the parties concerned, in all efforts, deliberations and conferences on the Middle East to bring about a comprehensive and final settlement of the Middle East issue. 120. The United Nations during the past decade has played an increasingly important role in hastening the process of decolonization in many parts of the world. In Africa in particular, the momentum created by the emergence of newly independent countries has hastened this process. In South-East Asia, I wish to take note with great satisfaction that the overwhelming majority of the people of the region are now independent and sovereign.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“Malaysia firmly believes that any solution to the problem must take into account the rights of the Arab States concerned to regain their lost territories. We deplore the acquisition of territories by the use of force and the changing of the geographical and demographical aspects of the occupied territories, including steps to Judaize the cities of Jerusalem, Nazareth and the region of Galilee. As one of the 20 members of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People, Malaysia fully subscribes to the view that no solution in the area could be possible which does not take fully into account the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people and their inalienable right to return to their homes and properties and to achieve self-determination, national independence and sovereignty.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“We hope that this session would give serious consideration to the recommendation of the non-aligned countries for the convening of a special session of the General Assembly on disarmament. It is our view that a start has to be made somewhere, so that we can bring together all States, including the nuclear-weapon States, to talk seriously of global disarmament. We also hope that constructive debate will prevail over such other issues as a comprehensive ban on all forms of nuclear weapon tests in all environments, the cessation of the nuclear arms race and the prevention of further proliferation of nuclear weapons. 119. The Middle East remains another area of conflict. We are concerned that this problem continues to be unresolved.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“The escalation of the arms race in many sensitive areas of the world has continued unabated. The proliferation of nuclear weapons has enhanced the specter of accidental nuclear confrontation with all its ghastly consequences. Agreements be-tween the super-Powers on the limitation of strategic arms are not sufficient if they do not include agreements on important qualitative limitations and substantial reduction of their strategic nuclear weapon systems as a positive step towards nuclear disarmament. The prospect of convening a world disarmament conference seems further than ever before. My Government believes that lasting peace could only be achieved through general and complete disarmament under strict and effective international control, and not through, a mutually agreed balance of armaments.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“My delegation is heartened to note that the United Nations continues to provide the forum for us to put our minds together in the search for global solutions to global problems, and even if those solutions have in the past fallen short of public expectations they should not deter us from continuing the dialog which is so indispensable to international understanding and co-operation. The debates in international conferences, as the Secretary-General has rightly pointed out, have a very considerable effect in focusing public interest on global problems, in preparing a climate of opinion favorable to their solution and in evolving guidelines for future international and national action. 118. This is certainly true of our discussion on the problems of disarmament, in which no significant progress has been made in this field in recent years.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“Chiao Kuan-hua, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China, who in his statement yesterday [17th meeting] held that the position of the Association of South-East Asian Nations [ASEAN] for the establishment of a zone of peace, freedom and neutrality free from interference by foreign Powers should be respected. 116. Last, but not least, we are optimistic that the big Powers will eventually come round to accept that detente and peace can never be divisible and that it is through the realization of a neutral and peaceful South-East Asia that we shall be able to eliminate the complex interplay of big-Power rivalry in the region, which we are certain will work to the mutual advantage of all concerned. 117.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“The proposal has already received positive support in various international forums including the Commonwealth Conference and the Fourth Conference of Heads of State or Government of Non-Aligned Countries in Algiers in 1973.1 would like in this connexion to express our deep appreciation to the Honorable Krishna Raj Aryal, Foreign Minister of Nepal, who in his recent statement has expressed Nepal's full and strong support for what he has so aptly described as "a constructive effort towards the strengthening of the peace, stability and development of the South-East Asian region" [5 th meeting, para. 174]. May I also take this opportunity to thank Mr.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“In February 1976 the Heads of State and Government of Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Singapore met in Bali, Indonesia. They signed the Treaty of Amity and Co-operation in South-East Asia and the Declaration of ASEAN Concord, giving their formal reaffirmation to the proposal for the establishment of a zone of peace, freedom and neutrality in South-East Asia. The Declaration of ASEAN Concord in particular called for the creation of conditions that would be favorable to the promotion of peaceful co-operation among all the nations of South-East Asia on the basis of mutual respect and benefits. 115. The motivations behind the proposal as contained in the Kuala Lumpur Declaration are clear for all to see. It was an option for peaceful and co-operative coexistence.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“The situation in South-East Asia since then has changed following the cessation of hostilities and, more recently, the reunification of Viet Nam, as a result of which the prospects of increased regional peace, stability, regional co-operation and harmony in South-East Asia have been greatly enhanced. Certainly, Malaysia believes this development has generated a large degree of confidence and has created favorable conditions to enable all countries in South-East Asia to enter into a dialog among them on the proposal for a zone of peace and to work out a new order of relations within which the countries of the region as well as those outside it could live in peace and co-operation with one another, regardless of their ideology or social systems, and pursue their own destiny and development free of interference from outside Powers. 114.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“This was subsequently translated into a declaration commonly known as the Kuala Lumpur Declaration of November 1971, which was adopted by Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. 112. In my submission in regard to South-East Asia, the concept of a zone of peace, freedom and neutrality is very relevant and valid at all times, be it in the era of bitter wars or in the era of detente or even in the era of peace. Indeed, it was the intention of the five signatory countries that the zone of peace, freedom and neutrality should cover the whole of South-East Asia. It was envisaged that as soon as peace returned to the region consultations could be carried out with other countries on the details of the proposal. 113.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“Surely cognizance must be given to the fact that the proposal of this concept is in line with United Nations support for the creation of zones of peace in different parts of the world because they are a positive contribution to the establishment of international peace and security. 111. The Prime Minister of Malaysia in his speech at the recent non-aligned Conference in Colombo has said that the creation of zones of peace in strategic areas such as the Indian Ocean and South-East Asia is becoming more relevant and urgent in the context of continuing rivalry and arms escalation among the super-Powers. Malaysia had initiated the concept of a zone of peace, freedom and neutrality in South-East Asia in order to keep out this big-Power rivalry and competition for spheres of influence and control from the region.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“However, while some progress has been made in this direction, detente between the super-Powers in our view has not proceeded satisfactorily and has acquired the limited characteristics of a mutual accommodation of big-Power interests which may at the same time prove to be detrimental to the interests of other countries. 110. We in Malaysia view this development with considerable alarm, particularly since this may hamper the efforts of establishing a zone of peace, freedom and neutrality for South-East Asia as a means of lessening tension and eliminating big-Power rivalry and interference in the internal affairs of the small nations in the region.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“We are all familiar with the problems which have claimed the attention of the United Nations for many years. The questions of disarmament, decolonization, apartheid, the Middle East, human rights, development and trade still remain on our agenda. Perhaps a careful assessment of our past efforts in approaching these issues may lead us to discover more effective ways of resolving them. Indeed, my delegation comes afresh to the General Assembly each year with new enthusiasm and filled with optimism that we may achieve what we had failed to achieve in the past. 109. My delegation is pleased to note that the smaller countries, especially those in the non-aligned group, are beginning to play an increasingly more significant role in eliminating the causes of tension and conflict in the world.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)
“Our region is now at the threshold of a new era where, durable peace and the national aspirations and progress of our peoples are within our grasp. We have a common task to ensure the continued well being of our peoples, thereby contributing towards greater world peace and stability. Malaysia therefore looks forward and hopes earnestly and honestly to working closely with the people of Viet Nam, Kampuchea and Laos towards the establishment of a viable, peaceful, neutral and prosperous South-East Asia free from any form or manner of external interference. 108. The year 1976 marks the beginning of the last quarter of the twentieth century. As we cross the threshold of this last quarter it is relevant to take stock of our past performance so that we can gain a better perspective of how we are to proceed in the future.”
1976-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 31 (1976)