UNITED NATIONS Distr. GENERAL GENERAL A/6300(Fart II)* ASSEMBLY 21 November 1966 ORIGINAL: J;NGLISH

Twenty-first session Agenda i terr. 23

REFORT OF THE SFECIAL COMIJTTEE ON THE SITUATION WITH REGARD 'IO '.LHZ IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DECLARATION ON THE GRANTING OF INDEFErIDENCE 'IO COIDNIAL CODN'I'RIES J,1ND PE-OFIES

(Covering its work duritg 1966)

RapEorteur: Mr. Ala 1uddin H. AIJUBOURI ()

CHAPTER II

MEETINGS HEID IN AFRICA

CONTENTS

Paragraphs

Chapter II I;NTRCD'CCTION ...... 1 - 17 4 I. i-'~ETIKGS HEID AT DAR ·ES SALAAM, lrl'iTTED REFu13LIC OF • • • • • , .• • .• • • • • .• .• .• .• 18 - 121 10

A. Opening of meetings • • • • • • • • • .. ... ii' 18 - 89 10 Address by the Second Vice-President on behalf of the Pres'id·ent ·of the United Republic· of · ~ 18 - l(; Tanzania ••••• • .• • "41 .• ...... • .• .• .• .• ... .• 3l General statements •••.•• ...... 32 - 89 14 B. Anniversary of Africa. Fre.edom Day (25 b~ay, 19E6) 90 - 116 30 General statements...... 90 - 116 30

* This document contains chapter II of the re:r;:ort of the Special Corr,rr.ittee. The general introductory chapter will be reproduced in dccurc.ent A/63co(Fart I). Other chapters of the report of the Special Con:mittee are being r~t,roduced a.s addenda. 66-29956 I ... -2-

CONTENTS (continued)

faragraphs

C, Closing of meetings • • • 117 - 121 General statements • • 117 - 121 II. MEETINGS HELD AT MOGADISCIO, 122 - 231 37 A. Opening of meetings • • , •. . . . • 122 - 204 37 Address by the Prime Minister on behalf of the , • 122 - 128 37 General statements 129 - 204 39 B. Closing of meetings • 205 - 231 55 General statements • 205 - 228 55 Statement by the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Somalia ••••••.•• , , • 229 - 231 59 III. MEETINGS HELD AT ADDIS ABABA, E'rHIOPIA • 232 - 305 61 A, Opening of meetings ••• . . . . . • 232 - 294 61 Address by the Foreign Minister on behalf of His Imperial Majesty, the 232 - 234 61 Statement by the Administrative Secretary- General of the Organization of African Unity(OAU) 235 - 247 62 66 General statements • 248 - 294 B. Closing of meetings • • 295 - 305 74 Statement by the representative of the Administrative Secretary-General of the Organization of African Unity • 295 - 297 74 General statements • • 29B - 305 75 IV, MEETINGS HELD AT CAIRO, lJ'l'IITED ARAB REPUBLIC 306 - 439 77 A, Opening of meetings ...... 306 - 430 77 Address by the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the , , , • • • • • TT Address by the Acting Secretary-General of the League of Arab States 314 - 344 79 General statements • 345 - 430 87

I .. . -3-

CONTENTS (continued)

Paragraphs

B. Closing of meetings • • 104 General statements • • • • 104 Statement by the Deputy Foreign Minister of the United Arab Republic . , • , , • , • , 106 Statement by the Acting Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, • • • • 1c6 v. MEETINGS HELD AT ALGIERS, • 440 107 A. Opening of meetings, . . . . • • 440 107 Message from the President of the Revolutionary Council and of the Democratic and Popular Republic of Algeria. , ••• , • , 440 107 Address by the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Democratic and Popular Republic of Algeria 441 - 466 107 General statements 467 - 562 116 B, Closing of meetings . • 563 - 594 141 General statements • 563 - 581 141 Statement by the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Democratic and Popular Republic of .Algeria . . . • ...... 582 - 594 VI, ACTION ARISING FROM THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE 18 VISIT TO .AFRICA • , • • • , • • • , • • • .. • , • , , • 595 - 626 152 A. Adoption of resolution concerning the implementation of General Assembly resolution 1514 (XV) with regard to colonial territories considered by the Special Committee during its meetings in Africa (1966). , •• , , , , 595 - 620 152 B, Adoption of resolution expressing appreciation to host Governments ...... • • . • • , 621 - 626

ANNEXES I. Communique issued on 14 May 1966 by the Chairman on behalf of the Special Corrmittee . . . . . • . . • . . . . • . 163 II. List of representatives who attended the Special Committee's meetings in Africa • . . • • . . . • . . . . • • 16 5 I ... Addendum to agenda item 23 39

CHAPTER II*

MEETINGS HELD IN AFRICA

INTRODUCTION mendations on the subject which were contained in the twenty-third and twenty-fourth reports of the 1. In its report to the General Assembly at its Working Group (A/AC.109/L.270 and 275). The twentieth session, the Special Committee envisaged, Committee also ·had before it a report by the Secre­ as part of its programme for 1966, the possibility of tary-General on the administrative and financial im­ holding another series of meetings in Africa during plications of the Working Group's recommendations that year, in view of the great importance of the ~ork (A/AC.109/L.271). The Committee at its 409th that its previous visits to Africa had enabled 1t to meeting decided to adopt the reports of the Work­ carry out. This programme was approved by the ing Group, on the understanc!ing that the reservations General Assembly in operative paragraph 7 of resolu­ expressed by some members would appear in the tion 2105 (XX). Within the context of the pro­ record. By adopting these reports, the Committee de­ gramme thus approved, the Governments of the cided that it would accept the invitations extended to United Republic of Tanzania, the United Arab Re­ it by the five Governments, and that the duration public, Ethiopia, Somalia and Algeria extended in­ of its meetings in Africa would ,be for a period not vitations to the Special Committee (A/AC.109/147- exceeding six weeks. The Committee decided at the 150 and 152) to hold meetings at their respective same time that these meetings should begin at Dar es capitals during 1966. Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania, on 23 May 2. During the discussions on the organization of 1966, and subject to the convenience of the Govern­ work which took place at its meetings held between ments of Somalia, Ethiopia, the United Arab Republic 8 March and 6 May 1966, a wide measure of support and Algeria, it would hold meetings thereafter at was expressed hy members of the Special Committee Mogadiscio, Addis Ababa, Cairo and Algiers respec­ for the holding of a series of meetings in Africa. tively. Reservations were expressed by some members Several members expressed the view that the holding regarding the duration of the visit and the number of such meetings would enable the members of the of capitals to be visited. Committee to study closely the situation in certain 5. In reaching these decisions, the Special Com­ Territories, the attitudes of the administering Powers mittee took account of a statement made by the Chair­ concerned and the extent to which the provisions of man at the same meeting setting out the recommenda­ previous resolutions had been implemented. It would, tions oi the \Vorking Group concerning the items to moreover, facilitate the appearance before the Com­ -be taken up at the various capitals, subject to the mittee of petitioners who would otherwise find it im­ agreement of the host Governments. These recom­ possible to travel to New York. mendations were as ·follows : 3. At its 400th meeting on 4 April 1966, the Dar es Salaam : Southern Rhodesia, Mozambique, Special Committee considered and, after discussion, Basutoland, Bechuanaland and Swaziland; approved, by 20 votes to none with 3 abstentions, a Mogadiscio : French , Mauritius and the recommendation in this regard which was contained Seychelles ; in the twenty-second report of the Working Group (A/AC.109/L.265/Rev.1). By approving this recom­ Addis Ababa: South West Africa, Basutoland, mendation, the Committee decided to hold a series of Bechuanaland and Swaziland, Ifni, Spanish Sahara meetings in Africa during 1966 and to travel to Africa and French Somaliland; for that purpose not later than .the middle of May. Cairo : Aden and Oman; 4. At its 408th and 409th meetings on 26 April, Algiers: Angola, Portuguese Guinea, Sao Tome and the Special Committee considered further recom- Principe and dependencies, the Cape Verde Archipelago, Equatorial Guinea (Fernando P6o * Previously issued under the symbol A/6300 (pa.rt II). and l<.io Muni). 40 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexes The Chairman also informed the Committee that in 10. During its stay in Africa, the Special Commit­ making these recommendations, the "Nor king Group tee held forty plenary meetings, and the Sub-Com­ envisaged that the hearing of petitioners would take mittee on Petitions twelve meetings. The Special precedence over the substantive consideration of the Committee heard thirty-two groups of petitioners and above-named items. circula' ed ,thirty-nine written petitions, excluding re­ 6. In a letter dated 7 May 1966 (A/AC.109/159), quests for hearings. the Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom 11. At the opening of its meetings in Dar es to the informed the Chairman of the Salaam, Mogadiscio, Addis Ababa, Cairo and Algiers Special Committee that the United Kingdom Govern­ respectively, the Special Committee was addressed by ment would not be able to be represented in the Com­ H.E. Mr. Rashidi Kawawa, second Vice-President, on mittee at its meetings in Africa. Also contained in the behalf of the President of the United Republic of letter was an invitation to members of the Committee Tanzania, by H.E. Hagi Hussein Abdirizak, Prime to hold informal discussions in London with repre­ Minister, on behalf of the President of Somalia, by sentatives of the United Kingdom Government, on H.E. Mr. Ketema Yifru, Minister of Foreign Affairs, their way to Dar es Salaam. After a discussion at the on behalf of His Imperial Majesty, the Emperor of 411th meeting concerning the letter, the Chairman of Ethiopia, by H.E. Mr. Mahmoud Riad, Ministe,r of the Special Committee addressed a reply on 13 May Foreign Affairs, on behalf of the President of the 1966 to the Permanent Representative of the United United Arab Republic, and ,by H.E Mr Abdelaziz Kingdom expressing the regret of the majority of the Bouteflika, Minister of Foreign Affairs, on behalf of members at the prospect of the United Kingdom not the President of the Revolutionary Council and Head participating in the Committee's meetings in Africa, of the Government of the Democratic and Popular and appealing to it to reconsider its decision. The Republic of Algeria. The Special Committee also had Chairman also informed the United Kingdom that the the honour of being received by the Committee's itinerary did not provide for travel by or Government at each of the five capitals. way of London and that consequently the opportunity 12. In accordance with the decision taken by the for the proposed discussions in London would re­ Special Committee at its 403rd meeting, representa­ grettably not occur ( A/AC.109 /160). In a reply tives of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) dated 17 May 1966, the Permanent Representative attended the Committee's meetings in Dar es Salaam of the United Kingdom informed the Chairman that and Addis Ababa as observers. On 17 May 1966, the the decision of the United Kingdom Government Administrative Secretary-General of that organization concerning its non-participation in ,the Special Com­ addressed a letter to the Chairman in which he wel­ mittee's meetings in Africa had been taken only after comed the Committee to Africa and offered it the the most serious consideration of all the issues in­ co-operation and assistance of his organization volved and that, accordingly, the United Kingdom (A/AC.109/165). Following another decision taken Government was unable to change that decision by the Committee at its 440th meeting on 11 June ( A/AC.109 /162). 1966, to grant a request addressed to the Chairman 7. In a telegram dated 3 June 1966,. the Penna­ by the Acting Secretary-General of the League of nent Representative of Uruguay to the 1"Jnited Arab States (A/AC.109/182), a representative of Nations informed the Chr1irman of the Special Com­ that organization attended the Committee's meetings mittee that his delegation was unable, for reasons in Cairo in an observer capacity. beyond its control, to participate in the Special Com­ 13. In accordance with a decision taken by the mittee's debates during its visit to Africa. He ex­ Special Committee at its 424th meeting on 30 May pressed support for the work of the Committee and 1966, to grant a request addressed to the Chakman gratitude to the various host Governments for their on behalf of the Government of Czechoslovakia ( A/ invitation (A/AC.109/173). AC.109/164 and 166), a representative of that Gov­ 8. On 14 May 1966 the Chairman on behalf of ernment attended the meetings in Africa as an ob­ the Special Committee issued a convmunique on the server. Following other decisions taken by the Com­ Committee's meetings in Africa which was widely mittee at its 428th and 433rd meetings on 2 June and disseminated in the five host countries. The text of 6 June 1966 concerning requests addressed to it on this commzmique is appended to this chapter ( an­ behalf of the Government of SomaFa ( ::./AC.109 /169 nex I). and Add.1), a delegation of that Gu,:-·~, i1ent attended 9. Members of the Special Committee,1 accompa­ the meetings of the Special Committee in JVIogadiscio nied by the representative of the Secretary-General and Addis Ababa in an observer capacity. Further, and other members of the Secretariat, arrived at Dar in accordance with a decision taken by the Com­ es Salaam on 22 May 1966. The Special Committee mittee at its 440th meeting on 11 June 1966, to grant met in Dar es Salaam from 23 to 31 May 1966 at the a similar request from the Government of the United 11simbazi Community Centre; it arrived in Moga­ Arab Republic (A/AC.109/180), a representative of discio on 1 June, and met from 2 to 4 June 1966 at that Government attended the meetings in Cairo as an the Parliament Building; it arrived in Addis Ababa observer. Finally, representatives of the Governments on 5 June and met from 6 to 9 June 1966 at Africa of Algeria and of Spain attended the meetings in Al­ Hall; it arrived in Cairo on 10 June and met from giers as observers following a decision taken by the 11 to 15 June 1966 at the headquarters of the League Committee at its 448th meeting on 17 June 1966 to of Arab States; and it arrived in Algiers on 17 June grant requests made to it by those Governments and met from 17 to 22 June 1966 at the Club-des-Pins (A/AC.109/184 and 185). Conference Hall. 14. At its 426th meeting, on 31 May 1966, the representative of Czechoslovakia with the consent of the l A list of the representatives present at the African meetings Special Committee made a statement on the question is ~nexed to this chapter (annex II). of Southern Rhodesia. At the 428th and 430th meet- _,______Addendum to____;;...,_ agenda ______item 23 _::.= 41 ings on 2 and 3 June 1966 the representative of . A. MEETINGS HELD AT DAR ES SALAAM, UNITED Somalia in accordance with a decision taken by the REPUBLIC OF TANZANIA Committee concerning a request submitted by his 0 pening of Meetings Government (A/AC.109/172), participated in its con­ sideration of French Somaliland. At the 435th and Address by the Second Vice-President on beha/,f of 436th meetings on 7 June 1966, the representatives of tl1e President of the United Republic of Tanzania Mauritania and Morocco, in accordance with decisions taken by the Committee to grant requests submitted on 18. The Second Vice-President of the United Re­ behalf of their respective Governments (A/AC.109/ pitblic of Tanzania greeted members on behalf of the 174 and 175) participated in the discussions on Ifni President and Government of Tanzania and expressed and Spanish Sahara. The representative of Spain, his country's view that the work of the Special Com­ whose request for permission .to participate in these mittee was fundamental to the whole purpose of the discussions (A/AC.109/176) was granted by the United Nations. Some considered the Special Com­ Committee at the 435th meeting, subsequently sub­ mittee less important than other United Nations bodies mitted a letter withdrawing his request (A/AC.109/ directly concerned with the affairs of peace and war; 176/Add.l). At the 441st to 447th meetings held be­ but Tanzania fully recognized its significance in that tween 11 and 15 June 1966, the representative of the it was dealing with colonialism and therefore with the United Arab Republic following a decision taken by principle of human equality in the world and subse­ the Committee to grant a request made on behalf of his quent threat to universal peace and order. Africans Government ( A/AC.109 /181) participated in the dis­ were convinced that peace among peoples based on the cussions on the questions of Aden and Oman. Finally, injustice of colonialism was impossible. No group of at the 451 st, 452nd and 454th meetings held on 20 and world citizens would agree for ever to be governed 21 June 1966, the representative of Spain, in accord­ by other people. Therefore Africans would resort to ance with a decision taken by the Committee concern­ arms, if necessary, to achieve their freedom. The role ing a request submitted on behalf of his Government of the Special Committee was to endeavour to obviate (A/AC.109/185) participated in the di.c;cussion on the the need to fight by fostering a situation in which the question of Equatorial Guinea (Fernando Poo and peoples of each nation governed themselves in accord­ Rio ance with their own wishes and needs. The members Muni). . of the Special Committee should therefore be working 15. Fo11owing consideration of the relevant items, themselves out of a .iob. . the Special Committee adopted resolutions on the ques­ . 19. He _expressed strong disagreement with the tions of Southern Rhodesia ( chapter III, paragraph view t_hat it was a :waste _of money_ for the Special 1097), South West Africa ( chapter IV, paragraph Committee to travel m Africa when 1t could not visit 306), Basutoland, Bechuanaland and Swaziland the colonial Territories themselves. ( chapter VII, paragraph 237), Aden ( chapter VI, 20. The depth of African emotion over freedom paragraph 382), Equatorial Guinea ( chapter IX, para­ f!om all interference was no~ understood in the sophis­ graph 79), and Territories under Portuguese adminis­ ticated and developed countries of Europe and America. tration (chapter V, paragraph 67 5) , as well as a con­ It: Africa, however, the Special Committee could not sensus concerning the question of Ifni and Spanish fall to grasp the importance of its activity, for it Sahara ( chapter X, paragraph 116). An account of would meet people who had to deal with the day-to-day the Special Committee's consideration of these items !esults. of _colonialism and Tanzanians who were try­ is contained in chapters III, VII, IX and X of the ing,_ with madequ~te resources, to guard their frontier present report. agamst the colonial forces · of Portugal. The Special 16. ,vith regz.rd to the question of French Somali­ Committee. ~ould also meet m~ny P?litical refugees land, the Special Committee decided at its 432nd meet­ from colomahsm and hear them m their own environ­ °!e~t, which ~voul~ ma~e it easier to ju~ge their con­ ing held oa 4 June 1966 that following the hearing of v1ct1on and smcenty. A1though the Special Committee petitioners and statements by representatives it would could not visit the colonial Territories themselves conclude consideration of the item upon the resumption Africa was so much one in its history and tradition~ of its meetings in New Yark. As regards Mauritius that an _understanding of co?,ditions in newly independ­ and the Seychelles, the Committee decided on the pro­ ent Afnc..1. was a sound basis for a grasp of the reality of continuing colonialism. posal of the Chairman at the 447th meeting on 15 June 1966 to defer consideration until the resumption 21. Since the Special Committee's previous visit there had been only limited progress away from cola: of its meetings in New Yark. On the question of Oman, nialism in Africa, and there had been one overwhelm­ the Committee similarly decided at the same meeting, if!-g s~tback to the cause of justice and humanity. That that following the hearing of petitioners it would defer situation could not be allowed to continue and words consideration until the resumption of its meetings in al?ne would not put matters right. The Special Com­ New York. ~ruttee had come to. listen to petitioners ; afterwards 1t woul~ pass resolutions and report to its parent body. 17. In the light of its discussions on the above­ If nothmg further happened no progress would have mentioned items, the Special Committee also adopted been made and the situation would have deteriorated a resolution concerning the implementation of General · with the passage of time. Action must result because colon~Iism ~as a festering sore which, as long as it Assembly resolution 1514 (XV) with regard to remamed, poisoned the whole body. colonial Territories considered by it in Africa in 1966 ~2. African States were recovering from a period in ( see paragraph 619 below). It also adopted by ac­ winch their peoples had been humiliated and de;nied clamation a resolution expressing its appreciation to the most elementary rights to prepare themselves for the host Governments ( see paragraph 626 below). the efficient service of their country. Africans were 42 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexes having to learn the arts of administration and economic pendent only on the basis of majority rule. In view development as they practised them, since before inde­ of the commitments of all members of the United pendence their destinies were decided for them and Nations, Tanzania did not regard those demands as their training was designed to make them good English­ unreasonable. But they had not been fulfilled ; nor was men, good Frenchmen or good Belgians. Africans had there any real evidence to suggest that they would be. to eliminate that poison from the body of their society Instead there had been a gradually increasing list of at the same time as they demanded of the people a economic sanctions by the United Kingdom Govern­ degree of activity beyond anything needed in the de­ ment, coupled with appeals to the rest of the world veloped countries. not to trade with the illegal authorities. Only after 23. Africans did not wish to be obliged to resort five months had the United Nations been asked to to arms. They wanted freedom for Africa to enable authorize any real action-and that was only with it to live in friendship with the whole world, and an regard to oil shipments to one particular port. Africans orderly transfer of power from the colonial authorities we~e assured ?nly of intense diplomatic activity in to the peoples of the States concerned. which the racist Government of South Africa and the colonial .Government of Portugal were asked to 24. Africans would be very patient, subject to co:~perate with the United Kingdom authorities. Their formal recognition by the colonial Powers of the prin­ w11lmgness to do so was attested by the fact that six ciple. that all States under their jurisdiction would months after the unilateral declaration of independence attain independence on the basis of majority rule. But the Smith authorities were still in control. Another if that principle was not conceded and if work did serious ,fact w~s that the only assurance received from not begin on the transfer of power, Africans would be the Umted Kingdom Government was that it would forced to prepare themselves for a war of liberation. not grant independence on any other basis than ma­ They hoped that the work of the Special Committee jority rule. would help to make it unnecessary for any African peoples to take up arms. 30. He did not believe that Africans minded how the Smith regime was defeated, as indeed it would 25. He welcomed the prospect that the British have been on 11 November 1965 had the United King­ Territories of Bechuanaland and Basutoland would re­ dom Government sent troops to uphold its sovereign ceive their independence during 1966. But he would rule. But if the British refused to quell the rebellion like the Special Committee to examine the reality of then surely the United Nations should act regardles~ that transfer of power. If the United Nations was of British wishes. Under Chapter VII of the Charter satisfied with the situation, then Tanzanians would the Security Council could make economic sanctions congratulate those peoples, and the Committee, on that mandatory on all Member States. And if some of those new accession to freedom in Africa. States refused to co-operate then the sanctions would 26. But those countries were almost completely be app!ied against. t?em too. Africans could not agree surrounded by the Republic of South Africa. The Spe­ to leaving four million people under the effective con­ cial Committee and the United Nations as a whole trol of a racist and privileged white minority, and should therefore be vigilant in order to ensure that whatever the cost they would have to reject that ex­ those cotmtries maintained their sovereignty. Although tension of oppression in Africa. the situation in South Africa was not the direct con­ cern of the Special Committee, it was relevant to all 31. In conclusion, he expressed the hope that the discussion concerning the southern part of Africa. The Sp~cial Committee would have an opportunity of course which South West Africa would take to free­ seeing some of the difficulties faced in Tanzania and dom would be very much affected by the forthcoming the great efforts which its people were making to judgement of the International Court of Justice and overcome them. He also hoped that members would by the subsequent action taken by the Security Coun­ sense s?me~hini of the excitement and challenge of cil. But no member of the Special Committee could developmg m mdependence-for that excitement and doubt the reality of the oppression under which South tha~ challeng~ had become part of daily life in Tan­ West Africa was suffering, or that the situation would zania. He believed that an appreciation of those factors be brought to an end. The Special Committee had the would help the Special Committee to understand the responsibility of trying to make the transition to free­ importance of its work, and perhaps to devise some dom a constructive rather than a destructive one. way forward out of colonialism. 27. The problem of the Portuguese Territories was General statements of direct concern to the Special Committee, which had to make the world realize two things: that Portuguese 32. The Chairrnan thanked His Vice­ colonialism continued only because of the support President Kawawa for his very important address. which Portugal received from her allies in Europe; The ~pecial S:ommittee was particularly grateful to and that therefore the whole relationship between the V1ce-Pres1dent for the warmth of his welcome, f,.frica and Europe would be affected by developments and had been extremely touched by the hospitality and in the freedom struggles of the Portuguese colonies. friendship displayed since its arrival in Dar es Salaam. It was also grateful for the Vice-President's assurances 28. In all the colonial Territories to which he had of support in its work. referred the situation was the same as when the Special Committee had visited Africa previously, or a little 33. The beautiful city of Dar es Salaam which had better. set a shining ex~mple in African liberatio~ struggles, 29. But in Southern Rhodesia the situation was, was a ~ost fitttnf{ b~ckgroun~ to ~he beginning of of course, very much worse. Tanzania wanted Southern the Special Committee s work m Afnca. The achieve- Rhodesia to be independent on no other basis than ments of Tanzania since in ndence had fired the majority rule. It had called upon the United Kingdom imagination of all men of g ill. Government to defeat the illegal regime and give a 34. He renewed his thanks to the Vice-President pledge that Southern Rhodesia would become inde- for having taken time from his busy schedule to open Addendum to agenda item 23 48 the session, and expressed the hope that the efforts the freedom fighters by every means at its disposal ; deployed would contribute significantly to the liquida­ it insisted on independence for all countries under tion of the last bastions of colonialism-a problem with foreign domination and would stand by them in order which both Africa and the United Nations were most to bring about the final liberation of the African con­ deeply concerned. tinent. 35. The representative of the Union of Soviet 38. The United Nations must adopt sanctions Socialist Republics expressed the thanks of the people, against South Africa and Southern Rhodesia in order delegation and Government of the to to compel them to comply with the decisions of the the Government and people of Tanzania for their General Assembly. fraternal welcome. The United Republic of Tanzania 39. The representative of India expressed the grati­ was a young and courageous country and was situated tude and appreciation of his Government, his delegation close to the Territories where the vestiges of colonial­ and himself personally to the Government of the United ism still prevailed. He expressed his appreciation for Republic of Tanzania for its generous invitation to the the important address made by Vice-President Kawawa Special Committee to hold some of its meetings in Dar and paid a tribute to the courage and dynamism of es Salaam. Members had sensed the warmth and affec­ that young African nation which, together with other tion of the friendly people of Tanzania, and he ex­ fraternal Governments, was struggling to liberate those tended to them the best wishes of his delegation for who were still oppressed in South Africa, Southern their continued well-being and prosperity. Rhodesia, the Territories under Portuguese domina­ 40. Bordering on several Non-Self-Governing tion, and the United Kingdom Protectorates. The storm Territories, 'l'anzania occupied a unique position in raised by the national liberation movement must con­ the brave struggle against colonialism and had a major tinue, for there were unfortunately a number of African role to play in helping the freedom fighters of those Territories where the vestiges of colonialism still ex­ territories. His delegation was extremely satisfied with isted. The monopolies established in southern Africa the contribution Tanzania had made, and was making, sought only to enrich themselves and therefore sup­ to that worthy cause. The locating of the headquarters ported racism. The international monopolies which of the Liberation Committee of Eleven of the Organ­ reaped the profits of such exploitation were therefore ization of African Unity in Dar es Salaam was in itself equally gui!ty, since they .prolonged an inadmissible recognition of Tanzania's special position. His delega­ situation. The countries of NATO which supported tion wished to pay a tribute to one of the most out­ Salazar by providing him with aircraft, weapons, in­ standing personalities of Africa, His Excellency structors and industrial equipment were thus assisting Mwalimu Julius K. Nyerere, President of the Repub­ the racist regimes. During the previous session of the lic, and to his Government and people. General Assembly important decisions had been taken against colonialism and imperialism : the international 41. India enjoyed the most friendly relations with monopolies which were hampering the freedom of still Tanzania and greatly esteemed Mr. Nyerere for his dependent Territories had been severely condemned. qualities of leadership, for his devoted efforts to raise The Special Committee, which owed its existence to the living standarcs of his people and for his success the desire of peoples to achieve freedom, should seek in b1Jding up a truly multiraciai society. The sign­ all ways and means capable of bringing about the in­ ing c,f ,the Friendship and Scientific, Economic and dependence of the oppressed peoples and take ener­ Technical Co-operation ~.;.greement between Tanzania getic decisions that could be rapidly applied. The pro­ and India was, in the words of Mr. A. M. Babu, Tan­ cedures to be adopted by the Special Committee in zanian Minister for Commerce and Co-operation, "not order to apply those decisions would be determined the beginning but the continuation of the age-old by the nature of each particular problem. The Com­ friendly relations between India and Tanzania". His mittee. should concentrate on questions such as the country was proud of Mr. Babu's tribute that, through immediate implementation of the Declaration on the its co-operation, India was aiding not only Tanzania's Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and economic development but also the economic emanci­ Peoples ; the provision of genuine assistance to peoples pation of colonial Africa. struggling for independence, and the pi.l.rticipation of 42. The Second Vice-President had reminded the the United Nations specialized agencies in such efforts; Special Committee, in his inspiring address, of the the setting of target dates for the attainment of inde­ continued urgency of the problem of colonialism. Mir. pendence by colonial Territories, and so forth. Kawawa's enlightening words would guide the Com­ 36. The Special Committee should emphasize the mittee in its discussion. India's attitude towards colo­ utilization of military bases by the colonial countries nialism had been consistent and forthright. India had against the peoples, in particular the use of Ascension always stood for the emancipation from subjection by Island against the people of the Congo, the island of alien powers of peoples who, for varying periods of Guam against the Viet-Names~ people, and so forth. history, had not known freedom. India would continue A productive and fruitful action should be undertaken to display the same uncompromising· forthrightness in order to put an end to such aggression. fearlessly and disinterestedly. His people's conscience 37. He opposed the view that the Special Committee and principles were not for sale. could serve no useful purpose in Africa; on the con­ 43. His delegation deeply regretted the absence trary, he was convinced that the presence of the from the Special Committee of the representative of Special Committee in Africa would give new impetus the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern to the struggle that had been undertaken. The Soviet Ireland. In view of the clear acceptance which the Union, a socialist State, had eradicated the enslavement United Kingdom had already given to the principles of man by man and abolished social classes ; it would underlying the purpose of the Special Committee, it defend,- as it had always done, those who were strug­ would have been preferable if the United Kingdom gling for freedom and were the victims of the policies representative had remained associated with its de­ of the imperialists. The Soviet Union would support liberations. 44 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexes 44. The representative of Mali thanked the Gov­ ex;perience in democracy, which would serve as a ernment and people of the United .Republic of Tan­ guideline for the newly independent count! ies. zania for the very warm and very African welcome 47. He pledged the full support of hfo delegation which they had given the Special Committee. He also for all measures likely to promote the liberation of the thanked Vice-President Kawawa for his address and Zimbabwe people, the inhabitants of South West for his Government's interest in the work and ob­ Africa, people under Portuguese subjugation and all jectives of the Special Committee. He recalled that other peoples still languishing in colonial bondage. General Assembly resolution 1514 (XV), which had been adopted in 1960, had given rise to a new hope: 48. The representative of Bulgaria expressed the the immediate liberation of millions of human beings sincere gratitude of the delegation of the People's Re­ who were still living under the yoke of colonialism public of Bulgaria to the Government and people of and imperialism. \i\Tith a view to the practical imple­ Tanzania for their invitation and for their contribution mentation of that resolution, the Special Committee to the work of the Special Committee. The young had already made recommendations to the colonial Tanzanian people inspired admiration since they were Powers; but the time for statements of principle was in the front ranks of those who were struggling past. The Special Committee ..;!.ould decide on the against colonialfom and n.eo-colonialism. The address adoption of specific measures in order to hasten the by Vice-President Kawawa was further proof of the accession of dependent Territories to freedom, in ac­ Tanzanian contribution to the struggle for the elimina­ cordance with resolution 211)5 (XX). Mali, for its tion of the last vestiges of colonialism in Africa. The part, suggested the following: ( 1) that the Committee United Republic of Tanzania could rely upon the should proceed to hear the petitioners from the na­ assistance and friendship of all those who were strng­ tional liberation movements, since in most cases they gling against imperialism, incb'iing Bulgaria. were unable to come to New York; (2) that working 49. He whole-heartedly endorsed the Special Com­ groups should -be set up to consider the agenda items. mittee's visit to Africa and believed that the work The working groups would propose practical measures which the Committee would do during its stay would regarding the Ter,ritories in question; they might set be the most important of the year. The twentieth ses­ a target date for the accession to independence of sion of the General Assembly had adopted resolutions Territories still under foreign domination. That would which represented a great step forward. The Special be in keeping with the spirit of operative paragraph 9 Committee should see to it that they were applied of resolution 2105 (XX), which read as follows: without delay, for the time had come to giv:e full effect "Requests the Special Committee, whenever it to resolution 1514 (XV). In the course of the visit considers it appropriate, to recommend a deadline to Africa members of the Committee would make for the accession to independence of each Territory contact with the representatives of the oppressed in accordance with the wishes of the people". peoples ; they should ask themselves how they could He thanked the Tanzanian Government for the assist­ help them effectively. As far as Southern Rhodesia ance it was giving to the African liberation move­ was concerned, for example, the recent debates of ments. In addition, he requested the Secretariat to the Security Council had shown that the United King­ keep the Special Committee informed of the results dom did not hesitate to enter into negotiations with of the Security Council debate on the question of Ian Smith and to work out a compromise with him. Southern Rhodesia, in order to assist the Special Com­ Bulgaria, for its part, had supported the draft resolu­ mittee in its work. tion which had been submitted by the African mem­ 45. The representative of Iran conveyed the greet­ bers of the Council and which had called upon the ings of the Iranian people and Government to the United Kingdom to use force against the racist Smith United Republic of Tanzania and expressed his coun­ regime and upon the Council to apply the measures try's gratitude to the President for enabling the Spe­ provided for under Chapter VII of the Charter. The cial Committee to hold meetings in Dar es Salaam, Special Committee should request that the U nite aspirations of the inhabitants. The claim often ad­ could feel the excitement of new development. Aus­ vanced by defenders of the so-called "free world" that tralians did not profess to know a great deal abm1L dependent peoples were immature and unready to Africa. But there were Africans in his country-not assume self-government was discordant with the spirit a great many, it was true, but among some 12,000 of General Assemhly resolution 1514 (XV), which other students from developing countries (mainly recogr.:ized the right of all peoples to self-determina­ Asian) they were -bringing much that was good to tion. Recent developments bad made it clear that un­ Australia and, he •believed, taking much -that was good less m~ndatory measures provided for under Chapter away. Through them Australia had become aware of VII of the United Nations Charter were taken, the the fact that the future of Africa was in good hands. existence of colonial regimes would lead to a further As an individual he was conscious of a dream com­ deterioration of the international situation and to ing true on this his first visit to Africa south of the armed conflict. Finally, he endorsed Vice-President Sahara, and sensed an atmosphere of new hope in Kawawa's statement that the s01J11er the United Africa. Nations acted, and acted effectively, the better for all 56. The representative of Poland expressed the concerned. thanks and gratitude of his delegation to President 59. The representative of Iraq thanked the Gov­ Nyerere and the Government and people· of Tanzania ermnent and people of Tanzania for the cordial and for the invitation extended tr the Special Committee. spontaneous welcome extended 1:o the Special Com­ Indeed, the welcome accorC::t J to it was a token of the mittee. count>ry's willingness to assist the United Nations in 60. Vice-President Kawawa had rightly empha­ the struggle against colonialism and racism. sized the special position and esteem enjoyed by the 57. He had had the privilege of representing Special Committee in Tanzania and in all other free­ Poland in 1962 on the Committee of Seventeen, which dom-loving countries. In that connexion he quoted had met in Dar es Salaam, and had again visited -the an extract from the Vice-President's address to the capital in 1965 to serve on the same enlarged Com­ effect that sooner or later, in default of other ways of mittee. It was gratifying to see the progress achieved achieving their freedom, subjugated countries would by Tanzania it1 all fields of national development since fight for it; that it was the role of the Special Com­ independence. The Polish Government and people mittee to obviate such fighting by fostering a situation welcomed the political, economic and social attain­ in which .the peoples of each nation governed them­ ments of Tanzania and wished -them every further selves in accordance with their own .wishes and needs; success in their aspirations and a happy and pros­ and that the me1nbers of the Special Committee should perous future. therefore be worldng themselves out of a job. 58. Vice-Presiderit Kawawa's address would in­ 61. In the light of what the Vice-President had spire those wi Jhing to hasten the end of colonialism said, he regretted the absence of the United Kingdom 46 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexes delegate. Member States had an obligation to abide Rhodesia, South West Africa, the Portuguese Terd­ by resolutions of the various organs of the United tories and dependent Territories elsewhere had all, in Nations. That was especially true of the major accordance with the United Nations Charter, freely Powers, which should continue to demonstrate their selected the governments of thek choice. good faith to the rest of the world. 67. It was to be hoped that the Special Committee 62. The struggle undertaken by Tanzanians for would take advantage of its proximity to the Terri­ the cause of independence in Africa and all over the tories referred to in its agenda to acquaint itself world had won the admiration of freedom fighters and · directly with the difficult and complex problems being peace-loving countries. He felt sure that the Special experienced daily by the peoples concerned. In view Committee's meetings would further the cause of of the unhappy lot of those peoples, the Special Com­ freedom and hasten the process of decolonization. mittee should devote itself to reasoned consideration Nothing would delight his delegation more than the of their problems rather than to provocative accusa­ winding up of the Special Committee once the colo­ tions or sterile polemics. nized peoples of the world had regained dignity and 68. As the Vice-President had said, the people of freedom for the be1~efit of all mankind. Tanzania, unlike those of Southern Rhodesia and 63. The representative of thanked the people other Non-Self-Governing Territories with which the and Government of Tanzania for their generous hos­ Special Committee was concerned, were able to de­ pitality. In the field of international relations, Tan­ velop their own society and economic and political zania had distinguished itself, under the leadership of institutions. In vie.w of the spirit of enthusiasm with its President and the guidance of such able men as which its people were pursuing those tasks and their Ambassador Malecela, by its constant and vigilant pride of achievement, the United States delegation stand against colonialism. Loyal to the principles and considered that the choice of Tanzania as the starting resolutions of the United Nations, it ever strove to point for the Committee's African tour had been ex­ translate the ideals of that organization into action. tremely fortunate. The Vice-, in his address to the 69. In conclusion, she said that the Government Special Committee that morning, had stated that the and people of 1 anzania were to be congratulated upon African continent sought justice above all since only the remarkable progress achieved in developing a by its attainment would the need to fight be removed. modern and active economy. So long as justice had not been secured, the struggle 70. The representative of Tunisia recalled that of the freedom fighters was not only a right but a when~ver the Special Committee went to Africa, the duty and should command the support of every nation Tanzanian Government always invited it to hold part professing belief in the principles of the United of its session on the hospitable soil of Tanzania; in Nations and in the freedom of all mankind. The Re­ spite of ali the problems of development faced by it, public of Tanzania was to be congratulated upon its Tanzania did not lose sight of its duty and responsi­ admirable record in that connexion. bility in respect of the liberation of the peoples still 64. As the representative of Mali had said, the under the colonial yoke. He therefore thanked the ti, ne had come for the Special Committee, and the Government and people of Tanzania for having been United Nations as a whole, to pass from general prin­ kind enough to offer their warm and fraternal hos­ ciples to effectiv~ action. Those who still subjugated pitality once more to the Special Committee. vast numbers of peoples in Africa and elsewhere, 71. The Tunisian delegation's views of colonialism should be made to realize that a clear choice lay before had been stated on several occasions in the Special them : either they ·had to recognize the cause of eman­ Committee and in other international bodies. The cipation or they would •be faced with a mortal fight Tunisian Government was in favour of the liberation which would ultimately lead to their defeat. The Vice­ of all countries still under foreign domination and President of Tanzania, Mr. Kawawa, had rightly de­ woulci spare no effort to carry out the measures which scribed as fundamental the important task of the would be adopted with a view to obtaining tangible Special Committee, faced as it was with the explosive results in that field. situation existing in such areas as Southern Rhodesia, 72. The representative of Venezuela thanked the the Portuguese-dominated colonies, Aden and Oman. Government and people of Tanzania for the warm Those facts should now guide the Special Committee welcome which they had accorded the Special Com­ in its action. mittee. He hoped that the Committee would do con­ 65. The representative of the United States of structive work and obtain satisfactory results. Anierica joined previous speakers in expressing her 73. The representative of Ethiopia associated his delegation's appreciation for the generous welcome delegation with the expressions of appreciation ex­ extended to the Special Committee by the Vice-Presi­ tended by previO!ts speakers to the Government and dent of Tanzania, Mr. Kawawa, and for the hospital­ people of Tanzania. He also wished to pay tribute ity offered by the Government and people of Tanzania. to the people of Tanzania for their sacrifices and As he had stated, it was to be hoped that the time achievements in th~ struggle against colonialism, both would come when the Special Committee would no in Africa and elsewhere. It was with satisfaction that longer need to meet, having secured the right to self­ he could testify, as Ethiopian Ambassador in Tan­ determination, through universal suffrage, for all the zania, to the remarkable progress which that ('. ·, .. .,:y remaining dependent Territories. had made under the able and dynamic IeadersI1 · , of 66. The United States Government had frequently President Nyerere. · expressed the view, which she wished to take the 74. In his opening address, the Vice-President of opportunity of reiterating at that stage, that only by Tanzania, Mr. Kawawa, had clearly outlined the tasks the expression of a free and informed choice could which lay before the Special Committee. As he had any people achieve the government it desired. No said, until the septic sore of colonialism had been nation could rest content until the peoples of Southern removed from Africa, there could be no security for Addendum to agenda item 23 47 the continent. It was the firm belief of the Ethiopian · sentative of Italy had rightly observed that one of delegation that the Special Committee could, during the Special Committee's most important tasks was to its forthcoming tour, do much to bring the eradication demonstrate the deep concern of the United Nations of colonialism closer to realization. By helping and regarding the problem of colonialism. To do so, the encouraging the freedom fighters, now locked in a Special Committee should agree not only upon the mortal struggle with the ruthless forces of oppression, general principle, that colonialism should be brought the Special Committee could, as the representatives to an end as soon as possible, but also upon the way of the moral conscience of all mankind, greatly ad­ in which that objective could be achieved. That would vance the cause of justice and the rule of law, both of of course necessitate concessions on all sides but, in which were the hallmarks of international society. the opinion of the Danish delegation, it would serve 75. The representative of Italy expressed his dele­ the common cause, namely, the effective fight against gation's appreciation to the Government of Tanzania colonialism. for their horpitality and thanked the Vice-President, 79. Lastly, he expressed the ·hope that the Special Mr. Kawawa, for his kind words of welcome. The Committee's session in Africa would be fruitful and Special Committee, which had already had the privi­ that a spirit of co-operation would prevail b~tween lege of meeting in the congenial atmosphere of Dar all delegations. es Salaam in 1965, would benefit from its renewed 80. The representative of Madagascar said that the contact with the realities of the African scene and Malagasy Government was against colonialism ; its would be enabled to make sure and genuine progress views on the question had already been stated on towards the goals on which all were agreed. several occasions and were well known. He would 76. vVith regard to the substance of the Special comment on tb ' agenda items as they were considered. Committee's work, the Italian delegation fully agreed 81. He thanked the Tanzanian Government for with the Chairman that it should demonstrate the having been kind enough once again to invite the increasing concern of the United Nations with regard Special Committee to hold part of its session in Tan­ to the position of the peoples under colonial adminis­ zania. tration and strengthen its own capacity to help those 82. The representative of Sierra Leone said that peoples in their struggle for self-determination and every delegation would certainly wish to study the independence. The statements to -be made by_ the important and thought-provoking statement made by petitioners would be particularly valuable: the in­ the Vice-President of Tanzania in his opening address formation they could furnish on the situation in their to the Special Committee. respective Territories, as well as their views with 83. The problems of colonialism still remained and regard to the ibest methods of attaining the objectives every effort was being made to liberate the count'l"ies set forth in General Assembly resolution 1514 (XV), concerned, despite great odds. Sierra Leone had sup­ would greatly assist the Special Committee in its de­ ported those efforts in all the organs of the United liberations and would, at the same time, provide the Nations and had maintained its stand unequivocally, petitioners with further encouragement. In the light both in the Organization of African Unity and in of those factors, the Italian delegation wished to pledge other international bodies. He would comment in de­ its full and loyal co-operation in the Special Com­ tail upon his Government's policy as the Special Com­ mittee's work which, it was confident, would be mittee dealt with each Territory in turn. It was to fruitful. be hoped that those freedom fighters who had had to 77. The representative of Denmark thanked the flee their countries would find succour and that the Vice-President of Tanzania for -his cordial welcome Special Committee would, as a result of its delibera­ and excellent analysis of his Government's views on tions, move nearer to a solution -:!£ the problem of the problems of colonialism. The Danish delegation colonialism. was grateful to the Government of Tanzania for its 84. Expressing his delegation's appreciation to the generous invitation to the Committee to hold a part Government and people of Tanzania, he said that their of its current session in Dar es Salaam. Those who hospitality was well known to the Special Commi.ttee had attended the Special Committee's previous session which had met in Dar es Salaam the previous year. would remember the warm hospitality already ex­ It was to be hoped that the Special Committee's cur­ tended to the Special Committee ,by the Government rent session would meet with greater success than and people of Tanzania as well as the excellent ar­ it had in 1965. rangements which had been made in that connexion. 85. The representative of the Ivory Coast ex­ The Danish delegation, which was well aware of the pressed thanks to the Tanzanian Government for the active role played by Tanzania in the fight against kind invitation which it had extended to the Special colonialism and of the energy and zeal with which it Committee and for its warm welcome. He expressed was dealing with the internal problems of a newly his gratitude to the Vice-President of Tanzania for independent country, looked forward to learning of his wise observations, which the delegation of the the progress made during the past year. I vary Coast would not fail to take into account in 78. As far as the Sp~cial Committee's work in the work that the Special Committee was to undertake. Africa was concerned, it was a source of concern to 86. The representative of the United Republic of his delegation that little or no progress had been Tanzania said that his delegation was gratified that recorded with regard to the situation in Southern it had been possible for the Special Committee to hold Rho,~, ., , South West Africa and the Portuguese its first meeting in Tanzania's ca;pital city. colo~-· .... ~ .. However, it was to be hoped that the Special 87. Since much of his Government's policy with Co1 • nittee, which would have the opportunity of dis­ regard to the problem of colonialism had already been r:11:-- ,ng- those serious problems in detail, would prove outlined by the Vice-President of Tanzania, he merely w, thy of the confidence of the African peoples, in wished at that stage to assure the Special Committee we; . \ ~md in deed. Both the Chairman and the repre- that their expressions of appreciation would be con- 48 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-:A-.nnexes veyed to those concerned. He also wished, on behalf brate, on 25 May each year, the anniversary of the of the Tanzanian delegation, to welcome all members liberation of Africa. It had been their intention to of the Special Committee to Tanzania. Their presence remind all the African peoples, whether they were in Dar es Salaam was a reminder of the work which already free or were still subject to the yoke of the remained to be done in the struggle to free the African oppressor, of the tasks which lay before them. It was continent. Once independence had been achieved, the for Africans to sweep the last vestiges of colonialism talents and ability expended in that connexion-and from Africa as soon as possible. For the members of as exemplified by the Special Committee itself-could the Conference at the Addis Aba-ba summit, it had be used in other fields of human progress, particularly been self-evident that no African people could be in Africa which had for so long been exploited. considered entirely free so long as any part of the 88. During their stay in Tanzania, members of the African contiHent still groaned under the colonialist Special Committee might experience certain incon­ boot. veniences. His Government would however make 93. In the past few years Africa had undergone a every effort to minimize such difficulties, in so far as radical transformation. Many African countries had the limited resources of a developing country allowed. acceded to independence. A number of names that the 89. Lastly, he expressed the hope that all mem­ African people had karned to hate had •been expunged bers of the Special Committee would enjoy their stay from the map of Africa. It was now the turn of the in the United Republic of Tanzania. countries situated in the south of the continent. It was through their territory that colonialism's last line Anniversary of Africa F1·eedom Day celebrated on of defence was drawn, and it was in their territory 25 May 1966 that colonialism was now digging its own grave. The ever more bitter struggle that the peoples of Angola, General statements Mozambique and so-called Portuguese Guinea were 90. The representative of Venezuela speaking on waging for their freedom showed the whole world the occasion of the anniversary of Africa Freedom that the fate of colonialism was sealed. Day, recalled that the previous year, at Lusaka, he 94. All men of good will rejoiced at the successes had expressed the hope that there would be no need scored by the African peoples in their st1:uggle against for the Special Committee to go back to Africa be­ colonialism and imperialism. The peoples of the Soviet cause Africa would celebrate Africa Unity Day a Union, Bulgaria and Poland, like those of the other ~ompletely free continent; in other words, as President socialist countries, had proved to the Africans the Kaunda had so eloquently expressed the hope, Africa firmness of their friendship, and were more than ever would celebrate the unity of a continent entirely liber­ ready to give them aid and assistance. ated from the colonial yoke. Africa Unity Day had come and that hope was far from heing realized. Presi­ 95. On that day when the peoples of Africa were dent Kaunda could not yet dry his tears, for millions celebrating the liberatior of their continent, and when of his brothers were still suffering under foreign all those who were fighting for the freedom and inde­ domination. But colonialism had been judged and con­ pendence of that continent shared their joy, the Soviet, demned. Nothing and nobody could prevent the sen­ Bulgarian and Polic,h delegations paid a tribute to the tence being carried out. The course of history was sacred struggle · · ,ich tl-?"' Africans had undertaken irreversible. Colonialism must disappear and would for the complett: libernt1 Jl1 of their ancestral land, disappear from all the places where it still persisted. part of which was still subject to foreign domination, The peoples of Africa who were still subject to 3. and for the development of their country in peace, colonial regime had, like all the peoples of the ea-rth, freedom and progress. Those delegations hoped that an inalienable right to self-determination and inde­ the African peoples and the Organization of African pendence. The day was not far off when that right Unity would meet with further success·es in their noble would be recognized. African unity, which had started enterprise: the union of all the forces of the African so well, could not be completely achieved so long as continent in the fight against imperialism and colo­ there were still peoples on the African continent sub­ nialism to promote peace and social progress. ject to foreign domination. The Latin American peo­ 96. The representative of Iran said that that day­ ples, who had paid a very high price in human life Africa Day-was the third anniversary of the found­ and economic well-being for their iudependence, who ing of the Organization of African Unity, which was were still fighting to eliminate the last vestiges of the instrument of African solidarity, and it was the colonialism in the Americas, unconditionally sup­ second such occasion on which the Special Committee ported their African ·brothers in the fight to recover had had the good fortune to be present on African their national dignity and their freedom. They hoped soil in pursuit of the same aims as the OAU. that in the very near future Africa Unity Day could be celebrated in a continent composed solely of free 97. Speaking on his own behalf and on that of the and independent States, where racial inequality had Asian countries represented on the Special Committee, disappeared, where relations between men were founded he extended hearty congratulations to the OAU. Dur­ on respect for human rights, and where harmony, ing its very short existence it had done much to assist the symbol of unity and prosperity, would prevail. liberation movements everywhere in Africa, and had been instrumental in promoting inter-African co­ 91. The representative of the Union of Soviet operation. It was fast becoming a centre for co-ordinat­ Socfolist Republics, speaking on behalf of the Bul­ ing the activities of African nations in solving eco­ garian, Polish and Soviet delegations, greeted the nomic, social, cultural or humanitarian problems, in peoples of Africa who were today celebrating Africa accordance both with the charter of the OAU and Unity Day. with the letter and spirit of the United Nations Char­ 92. At their historic meeting at Addis Ababa in ter. The OAU, unlike many similar organizations, May 1963, the Heads of State and Government of the was more than a mere institution : it was a living independent African countries ·had decided to cele- concept and a reflection of strong African sentiments Addendum to agenda item 23 49 for a larger union transcending ethnic and national tion to such universal recognition wherever there was boundaries. repression of those rights. Its role was of the greatest 98. Speaking on his own behalf, he said that Africa, importance to the African countries and to those in its drive for unity, was much more a.dvanced and others, such as hers, which had a strong interest in forward-looking than the other continents, since an Africa's future. African, in addition to his loyalty to his own country, 106. The African continent had great human and passionately regarded himself as an African. Such a natural resources, and great potential fo1" economic sentiment was a vital ingredient for eventual unity development, and her country, together with others, on a continental scale, and it was that spirit that had was privileged to be contributing technical and eco­ brought the OAU into being. It was the same spirit nomic assistance and educational aid. that would help the organization to surmount the 107. One important key to Africa's economic future obstacles put in its path by those interested to see it lay in increased co-operation between nations, which discredited, and finally the same spirit that would in the OAU was in a position to further. Co-operation in the end root out Smith and his kind, notwithstanding social and cultuTal affairs was also a significant area temporary setbacks, and bring about the freedom and in which the OAU was able to make an important independence of all Africans. contribution. · 99. The representative of Iraq on behalf of his own 108. She congratulated those members of the Spe­ delegation and that of the Syrian A:rab Republic, said cial Committee who represented African countries, and that he would be expressing the feelings of all Arabs conveyed to the people of Africa through them the in speaking on that auspicious day, which symbolized warmest good wishes of all Americans and of all the hopes and aspirations of the people of the great the delegations on whose behalf she was speaking. African continent. 109. The representative of Yugoslavia, speaking on 100. The Arab nation was bound to Africa by in­ -behalf of his Government, people and delegation, numerable links, more than half the being warmly greeted the people of Africa on theh- historic in fact on African soil and the remainder geographi­ anniversary. cally near it. Both Arabs and Africans had suffered­ 110. He str~ssed the importance of the OAU and and indeed some were still suffering-from colonial its international role which had been recognized by domination. They were -counting on all the help the the resolution passed by the General Assembly on the United Nations could give to gain their freedom, subject in 1965. He expressed the hope that there dignity and independence. History, religion and .cul­ would be a large measure of meaningful co-operation ture had also brought Arabs and Africans together between the OAU and the United Nations. His dele­ and moulded their common heritage and common gation had supported the proposal for the Special interests. Committee's visit to Africa, and had voiced its ex­ 101. The struggle of the African people in South­ pectation that the visit would offer large possibilities ern Rhodesia, Mozambique, Angola and the rest of for promotion of co-operation between the Special the colonies in Africa was being watched with great Committee and the OAU. interest and admiration in the Arab world, with no 111. He emphasized that Yugoslavia had very less an interest, in fact, foan in the liberation of the friendly relations with African independent countries, rest of the Arab world. and stood firmly in support of those that had not yet 102. On that great occasion, he invoked the mood attained independence. of the great American poet, Walt Whitman, whose 112. He conveyed warmest wishes for the further belief in the brotherhood and common· interests of success of the OAU and for the prosperity and better man had inspired his poem that began with the lines: future of Africa. "I celebrate myself 113. The representative of the· United Republic of And sing myself, Tanzania said that for the sons and daughters of And what I shall assume Africa, Africa Day was a day on which to celebrate, You shall assume, meditate and resolve. It gave Africans cause to medi­ For every atom tate on two aspects : the freedom that had -been gained in tb, • liberated Srates, and their championship of the Belo 1ging to me cause of liberating from colonial subjection and As good belongs to you". apartheid those States still afflicted by it. Only a 103. The celebration of Africa Day was not con­ decade ago, colonial exploitation had been running fined to the great continent of Africa, but was shared roughshod over the continent. The African people had in by all freedom-loving nations and by humanity and stood with courage, notwithstanding the overwhelm­ large. ing odds against them, to liberate their continent and 104. The representative of the United States of enjoy their legitimate rights of freedom and inde­ America speaking on behalf of her own delegation and pendence. Many of their struggles against their well­ the delegations of Aust·ralia, Denmark and Italy, ex­ armed oppressors had been crowned with success. tended the warmest congratulations to the Organiza­ Those countries that had won their independence were tion of African Unity and to independent African now working to consolidate it. States. Africa Day was a fitting reminder of the 114. The second factor-the cause of liberation of phenomenal development of independent States during the countries still under subjection-was brought the past two decades. sharply into focus by the Special Committee's presence 105. It also gave pause to reflect that the right of in Africa. Millions of brother Africans were being op­ self-determination and of people freely to express pressed by the racist minorities of Southern Rhodesia their wishes and govern themselves as they saw fit, and South Africa, who would have been defeated but for hr.d yet to be universally recognized. The Organization the military and economic aid received from their allies of African Unity could make an increasing contribu- in spite of the many resolutions that had been passed by 50 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexes the United Nations. Free Africans must therefore B. MEETINGS HELD AT J\tfoGADISCIO, SOMALIA once again reiterate their unqualified support for the Opening of meetings just struggle of their brothers in South Africa, So:1th \Vest Africa Southern Rhodesia and other countries. Address by the Prime 111inister on behalf of the The day sh~uld be one of rededication and renewed President of S 01nalia pledge of support for the charter of the Organiza;ion 122. The Prime Minister of Somalia said that he of African Unity to enable the 6.nal goal of a umted had great pleasure in welcoming the Special Com­ Africa to be reached: a dav to remind all the colo­ mittee to Mogadiscio on behalf of His Excellency nizers in Africa that their departure was long overdue President Aden Abdulla Osman and the Government and there was nothing- the free African States could and people of the . The Somali people not do to get them ~t. It was however, ~:1e desire were especially honoured to be able to serve as the of all Africans to live in friendship with the rest of Committee's hosts. Somalia owed a debt of gratitude the world, so long as it could be based on freedom to the United Nations for, under its trusteeship, it and equality. had been able to follow a smooth and steady path 115. The Chairman said that it was not a matter from colonial subjection to sovereign independence. of accident that the Special Committee was meeting If Somalia could in any way assist the Committee in in Africa on Africa Day. It was symptomatic of the its task of implementing the Declaration on the Grant­ fact that Africa had arrived in the United Nations. ing of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peo­ 116. Speaking on his own behalf, as a proud and ples, it vwuld have done something towards repaying humble son of Africa, he expressed the hope that the that debt. future would be brighter than the past, and that the 123. The Somali people felt honoured to be the patience and resilience of the African people would Special Committee's ·hosts because they had a deep be able to find full expression in the years ahead, sense of the historic significance of its work in Africa. enabling them to contribute towards fundamental -work which proved that the concept of colonialism human values. had been condemned. Millions of people on the Afri­ can continent, who had formerly been subjected to Closing of meetings humiliation antl indignity to serve the economic and General statenients political interests of the colonial Powers, were now 117. The Chairman said that the Special Commit­ free to work out their own destinies. As a people tee had come to the end of its deliberations in Dar es ruthlessly divided by the colonial Powers and a nation Salaam. New ideas and fresh information had been still suffering from that division, the Somalis were provided by the petitioners; the Committee had had particularly conscious of the importance of the Special the ·advantage of co-operation from the OAU, and it Committee's task. They were aware, too, that the had adopted a resolutiun (A/AC.109/167) represent­ struggle against the remaining enclaves of colonialism ing an important contribution to the solution of the might prove to ·be the most bitter of all. The Somali problem of Southern Rhodesia. It had listened with people joined in the Committee's concern for the plight interest to petitioners from Southern Rhodesia, of those who still had to fight for freedom, and the Mozambique and South vVest Africa, whose testimony Committee could rest assured of their complete sup­ would no doubt be A assistance to the Special Com­ port in its endeavour. mittee in its task of hastening their advancement and 124. The Special Committee's visit and the pres­ independence. ence in l\fogadiscio of the petitioners reminded him 118. On behalf of the Special Committee, he ex­ of the days when he had himself addressed the United pressed ·his deep gratitude to the Government and Nations Trusteeship Council as a petitioner. He had people of the United Republic of Tanzania for their spoken on behalf of Somalia at a time when its course cordial hospitality and for their many personal acts towards independence was still being chartered and of kindness. he therefore knew full well the v~foe of such hear­ ings : they provided an opportunity for viewpoints to 119. The representative of the Secretary-Genera.~, be presented personally; they gave encouragement to on behalf of the Secretariat, expressed his deep grcih­ those who were struggling for their freedom and they tude to the Special Committee's hosts for their gen·· stimulated world-wide interest in the cause of Hberty. erous hospitality and for the many facilities provided. The fact that the Special Committee could hold some He was particularly thankful to Mr. Malecela, Mr•. . of its meetings in Africa had enhanced the value of Foum and other members of the Tanzanian delegation the hearings. Through its findings, the Committee who had gone out of their way to facilitate the Secre­ would be in a position to present to fi1e United tariat's work. Nations General Assembly a more complete picture 120. The representative of the United Republic of of the situation prevailing in each of the remaining Tanzania on behalf of the President, the Government colonial Territories. Furthermore, the extensive and people of Tanzania, said how happy his country itinerary arranged for its visit enabled petitioners from had been to play host to the Special Committee. Its the remotest are-is to obtain a hearing. action sprang from its sincere belief in the work of 125. Ideally, the Special Committee should visit the United Nations and in the need for decolonization. the Territories themselves. The reason why that had 121. He hoped that the Special Committee's work not been possible, however, was well known: the in Dar es Salaam and elsewhere in Africa would prove Governments administering those Territories had fruitful and that the resolutions adopted would be much to hide, and a visit from the Committee would implemented. His own country would do its 1:itmost have finally disproved the false .propaganda circulated to carry out those decisions so that fellow Africans about them. Throughout those areas, and particularly still under the yoke of colonialism could be freed and in those controlled by South Africa and Portugal, the enabled to join the United Nations. colonial Powers would have the world believe that Addendum to agenda item 23 51 the indigenous people under their rule were satisfied Territories themselves. Unfortunately, however, that with their lot and that economic betterment meant had not been possible owing to lack of co-operation more to them than the attainment of political and from the administering Powers, and the Committee was social equality. Such claims were demonstrably false. therefore holding its meetings in Africa as close as A great and unjust gap existed between all African possible to the various centres of the colonial struggle. workers and white immigrant settlers-a gap which It hoped in that way to acquire more direct knowledge was maintained 1by the denial to Africans of their of the as,pirations of the colonial people while at the political and social rights. same time demonstrating once again the Committee's 126. Time and again, history had shown beyond solidarity with them and its determination to spare doubt that the search for national identity through the no effort in assisting their countries to attain inde­ process of self-determination was an inexorable trend pendence. followed by all people as part of their natural develop­ 133. It was in that spirit that he wished to inform ment. When that natural right was denied, social un­ all representatives of national liberation movements, as rest and turmoil were the inevitable consequences. well as all African peoples suffering under the colonial Unhappily, that unrest had already manifested itself yoke, that the Special Committee's visit to Mogadiscio in many colonial Territories and, in some, had led to was yet another expression of the United Nations grave and bloody conflicts. firm determination to liquidate colonialism without 127. In his opinion, the most important point was delay. Admittedly, despite the efforts made, progres~ that the United Nations General Assembly stood com­ had been. slow. However, in keeping with the principles mitted, by a majority decision, to ensure the speedy of the C.t,arter, the United Nations sought to achieve progress towards self-government of all peoples under its objectives primarily by persuasion. Therefore, if colonial rule. If Member States were allowed to flout the efforts of the United Nations had not been as that decision and if they were to be supported and fruitful as might be desired, it was the colonial Powers encouraged by powerful industrialist countries, which which were to blame, since they refused to co-operate placed economic interest above the principles of the with the Committee. United Nations Charter, then there would be justifi­ 134. Lastly, reiterating his thanks to the Prime cation for the charge that the United Nations had Minister, the President, the Government and the failed in its purpose-which would be sad indeed. people of Somalia, he said that the Special Committee 128. It was not his intention, however, to end on a would make every endeavour to implement the Declara­ pessimistic note. The United Nations had already tion on the Granting of Independence to Colonial achieved much for the liberation of the colonial peoples Countries and Peoples. and the Special Committee was continuing to propose 135. The representative of Italy associated his. dele­ practical and far-sighted solutions to the pressing gation with the Chairman's expression of thanks to colonial projlems of the age. It might take time, and the Government and people of Somalia, which occupied it would certainly take determination on ·'. he Com­ a special place in the heart of all Italians. The common mittee's part, before its recommendations were imple­ efforts of Somalia and Italy, during the years of mented. But the irresistible forces of freedom which trusteeship administration, had not been in vain, and had radically transformed the map of Africa over the the task of bringing Somalia to independence had been past decade were by no means spent. He was confident fulfilled to the satisfaction of the United Nations. that the Committee's presence in Africa would be an 136. As the Chairman had said, the Special Com­ encouragement to those forces and would ensure that mittee had come to Africa to demonstrate the increasing they would continue to operate with the same degree concern of the United Nations for the position of the of intensity until all Africans were free. colonial peoples and to strengthen its own capacity to help them in their struggle for independence. While Gene,-al statements in Mogadiscio, it would consider the problem which 129. The Chairman expressed appreciation to the was so important to the people of Somalia. Prime Minister and to the President, Government 137. He had been impressed by the idealism and and people of Somalia for their generous invitation to sense of responsibility underlying the words of the the Special Committee to hold a part of its session in Prime Minister of Somalia, which would be borne Mogadiscio. in mind by the Special Committee when the time came­ 130. The warm welcome extended to the Special for it to submit its recommendations to the General Committee on its arrival at Mogadiscio, which was both Assembly. The Committee could not always promise a reflection of traditional African hospitality and an prompt solutions, since that was neither in the nature expression of the Somali people's uncompromising of the problems t:P,emselves nor of the United Nations, stand against colonialism, had made its members even which sought to work through conciliation and media­ more aware of the trust placed in them and in the tion rather than through force. However, the Govern­ United Nations. - ment and people of SL,nalia could rest assured that 131. It was gratifying to ·note the progress which the Committee's deliberations would be guided by the Somalia had made in all fields since it had attained sense of responsibility and justice which had always independence, and the Prime Minister had graciously characterized its work. The results achieved would not referred to the assistance which the United Nations betray the trust which the Somali people had placed had rendered in t~1at connexion. In turn the Govern­ in the United Nations. . ment and people of Somalia could be assured that, jn "138. The representa'tive--'of the United Republic of discharging its mandate, the Special Committee had Tanzania thanked the Government and people of derived inspiration from the United Nations contribu­ Somalia for their timely invitation to the Special Com­ tion to Somalia's independence. mittee to meet in Mogadiscio and expressed apprecia­ 132. As the Prime Minister had rightly pointed tion to the Prime Minister for his words of welcome. out, ideally the Special Committee should visit colonial The enthusiasm with which the Committee had been 52 General Assembly,-Twenty•first Session-Annexes received upon its arrival in Mogadiscio had revealed also the beginning of a new era in the relations of that the spirit prevailing in Africa would ultimately Somalia and Eth:opia-an era of equal independent lead to the annihilation of colonialism. status as two neighbouring African States, with all 139. The position of Tanzania with regflrd to colo­ the duties and responsibilities which that involved for nialism was well known : it was the duty of ::ill Africans the inhabitants of both countries towards each other to secure the liberation of those Territories which were as well as towards the international community as a still being exploited and suppressed by the colonialists whole. Ethiopia took legitimate pride in the humble and as his delegation had repeatedly stated, there could role it ha.cl been able to play, both at the United Nations be no real freedom for Africa until that was done. and in other international organizations, in bringing Tanzania supported the struggle for independen,ce not about that happy situation. only of Africans, but of all peoples who, during the 146. However, in all frankness, he felt bound to course of history, had been subjugated by colonialists. refer to the events of the previous day. Needless to The Committee's meetings in Mogadiscio was a page say, his delegation had been pained and saddened by in the history of the fight against colonialism, just as the demonstrations which had taken place. ., the struggles in Algeria, Kenya and the Congo had 147. First of all, he wished to refer to some per­ been. Ultimately, the people of Africa would win; they tinent parts of the Special Committee's terms of re­ would not only attain their own freedom but would ference, since a certain amount of confusion and also reinforce that of all men throughout the world, misunderstanding seemed to exist in the minds of and strengthen the United Nations founded, as it was, certain people in Mogadiscio as to the purpose and upon the Charter and the Universal Declaration of objectives for which the Committee had been created. Human Rights. Its terms of reference, as contained in General As­ 140. It was of great value to the Special Committee sembly resolution 1654 (XVI) of 27 November 1961, in its work to be able to meet on African soil, where read int.:Jr aUa as follows : the immediacy of the problems was felt and for that reason Tanzania had offered to be host to the Com­ ["The General Assembly] mittee for a part of its session in Africa. "1. Solemnly reiterates and 1·eaffirms the objec­ 141. Lastly, he expressed the conviction that the tives and principles enshrined in the Declaration on revolutionary spirit would further the interests of the Granting of Independence to Colonial C01mtries African liberation. and Peoples contained in its resolution 1514 (XV) 142. The representative of Iraq, expressing his dele­ of 14 December 1960; gation's appreciation to the Government and people of " Somalia, said that from time immemorial, Arabs and "4. Requests the Special Coinmittee to examine Somalis had lived side by side, sharing the same ideals the application of the Declaration, ... and to report and aspirations. Great spiritual values linked them to the General Assembly ... ; together and their characteristics had been shaped by a "5. Directs the Special Co_mmittee to carry out common heritage. In recent years, the struggle against its task by employment of all means which it will colonialism had bound them even closer together in have at its disposal within the framework of the sympathy and understanding. The Iraqi delegation had procedures and modalities which it shall adopt for been greatly impressed by the warmth with which the the proper discharge of its functions." Special Committee h::i 1 been received, by the hospitality and courtesy of the Somali people and by the at­ 148. It was evident therefore that the relations mosphere of cordial co-operation which prevailed. It between two independent States, or the disputes that was mindful of t~e positive role played by Somalia, might exist between them, did not come within the in close co-operation with the Arab States as well as purview of the Special Committee. All references and in the OAU and other bodies, in the decolonization illusions made by the demonstrators to the existing and emancipation of all subjugated peoples. border disp·.1te between Ethiopia and Somalia, or between Somali!':l. and Kenya, therefore, should be 143. The representative of Ethiopia expressed his dismissed as irrelevant to, and without any bearing on, delegation's thanks and appreciation for the welcome the work of the Committee. and hospitality extended by the Government and people of Somalia. 149. The events at the airport and in the streets of Mogadiscio the previous day were only a small 144. The people of Ethiopia regarded the people example of what misguided and ignorant people could of Somalia as brothers and sisters and entertained do when they were actively incited. In his opinion, the the warmest feelings towards them. Consequently, they demonstrations which had taken place had brought regarded the differences dividing the two countries as nothing but disgrace to the name of Africa. He said a temporary phase which would pass and be forgotten that more in sorrow than in anger. It was to the in time, for the bonds of brotherhood uniting the two eternal shame of the leaders of Somalia that such great peoples were as strong as they were varied. names as Haile Selassie and J omo Kenyatta, two 145. Some six years earlier, he had the honour illustrious sons of Africa, revered and respected all of attending Somalia's independence celebration as a over the world, had been defiled with impunity in the member of the official Ethiopian delegation, and he streets of Mogadiscio. It was also a measure of the remembered the joy which he had shared with the distortion and misrepresentation inculcated in the minds people on their attainment of freedom and independence of the demonstrators that they had shouted against the in the beautiful city of Mogadiscio. The entire Ethio­ name of such a great and outstanding liberal European pian nation had shared in the Somali people's happiness, leader as General de Gaulle, while nothing had been since their Independence Day on 1 July 1960 marked said against Verwoerd, Salazar and Ian Smith, the not only the successful culmination of the '3truggle real enemies and oppressors of the African people. waged by the peoples of the two countries for the 150. A,.. for the oft-repeated declaration concerning eradication of colonialism in their p::1rt of Africa but the so-called division of the Somali people and the Addendum to agenda item 23 SS reference to the existence of people of Somali origin 158. With regard to the question of Mauritius and and the Somali ethnic group in Ethiopia and Kenya, the Seychelles, which were also on the Special Com­ his delegation wished to stress again that it had no mittee's agenda for its meetings in Mogadiscio, the intention of being dragged into irrelev~nt and point­ Ethiopian delegation would have concrete proposals to less discussions of that kind. make when the time came to consider draft resolutions. 151. Such worn-out phrases and cliches had become Until that time, however, his delegation merely wished so threadbare that they could hardly disguise the real to welcome the coming independence of Mauritius and aim and objective of the Government of Somalia to express the hope that the people of Seychelles -namely, its desire for expansion and for territorial would be able to follow suit in the near future. aggrandizement at the expense of neighbouring States. 159. In conclusion, he reiterated his delegation's 152. High sounding words, lofty concepts and terms appreciation to the Government and people of Somalia like "self-determination", ·'unification", "independence" for their invitation to the Special Committee and for and "freedom" were recklessly prostituted in Somalia the kind consideration they had shown. to mean, in stark reality, territorial expansion and 160. The Chairman said that he re~·etted that the aggrandizement for the realization of which the Somali representative of Ethiopia had insisted upon making Government incited innocent nomads and shepherds a controversial statement upon matters outside the in remote areas to murder, loot and plunder. Special Committee's purview. It would assist the Com­ 153. That policy of the Government of Somalia had mittee in its work if, in the future, representativ'!s been exposed and condemned by the entire body of would confine themselves to questions on the agenda. African and international public opinion. Formal reso­ lutions and dec1arations had been adopted by con­ 161. The representative of India thanked the Presi­ ferences of African Heads of State and by the con­ dent, Government and people of Somalia for their ference of the Heads of State and Government of invitation to the Special Committee to hold some of its Non-Aligned Countries to the effect that all African meetings in Mogadiscio. States should respect the boundaries which they hatt 162. India enjoyed most friendly relations with acquired at the time of independence. His delegation Somalia; both belonged to the group of economically saw no useful purpose, therefore, in bringing up a dead developing countries in the vanguard of the fight issue during the Special Committee's visit to Moga­ again~t colonialism, and they were joined in the discio. common endeavour to raise the living standards of 154. Instead of obstinately clinging to a bankrupt their peoples. India had, within the limits of its re­ and discredited policy, his delegation ventured to sources, sent such tralned technical personnel as suggest to the host Government that it should muster doctors, engineers and teachers to help Somalia in its enough courage to renounce once and for all its futile development. His Government's contribution was a ambition for expansion and should clear the way for token of the genuine friendship existing between the fruitful co-operation and friendly relations between two countries. the two neighbouring African States. He appealed to 163. The Prime Minister's fine address was an them from the hall of their own Parliament building important contribution to the work of the Special which they had so kindly put at the Special Committee's Committee. Recalling Mr. Abdirizak's personal ap­ disposal, to awaken to reality. pearance before the Trusteeship Council years ago as 155. In that connexion, the Ethiopian Government a petitioner, the representative of India stateti that his · challenged the Government of Somalia to work as it appearance before the Special Commiitee as Prime did for the wider unity of pan-Africanism or even Minister of his country showed the interest of the of East Africa, instead of harping on so-called "Somali Somali Government in the struggle against colonialism. unity"-a concept which was not only too narrow in 164. In conclusion, he extended his delegation's scope to be of imy use in the requirements of modern warm greetings to the people of Somalia and best Africa, but also contained outmoded and dangerous wishes for their continued well-being and prosperity. elements of tribalism and racism. 165. The representative of Afghanistan expreF.sed 156. The Ethiopian delegation believed that the his thanks to the Prime Minister for his inspiring two countries had much to gain from co-operative and address, and his gratitude to the Government and friendly relations which would be conducive to peace people of Somalia for their warm welcome and for and stability in the area. His Imperial Majesty, Haile enabling the Special Committee to hold some of its Selassie I, had time and again brought that fact to the meetings in Mogadiscio. attention of the Somali leaders but so far to no avail. However, Ethiopians were a patient people and could 166. The people of Afghanistan and Somalia were wait. Time was on their side. bound by common aspirations and strong spiritual ties, which made it all the more rewarding for his delega­ 157. The question of Djibouti had been one of the tion to work in the young republic of great traditions. preoccuputions of the Soniali News, the Government newspaper, and to a certain extent of the demonstrators. 167. The representative of A'ltstralia thanked the Since it was on the Special Committee's agenda, and Government and people of Somalia for the memorable a matter in which his delegation was vitally interested, welcome extended to the Special Committee, and ex­ he intended to participate fully in the debate when it pressed his appreciation of the opening address of the came up for discussion. The view of his Government Prime Minister, whose words would provide inspira­ on the m~tter was well known to the Committee and tion and guidance along the road to an Africa free of his delegation reserved the right to make a detailed colonialism and united in humar;. dignity. statement on its stand at the appropriate time. At that 168. The representative of Syria said that his dele­ stage, however, he only wished to make it clear that gation fully associated itself with the statement made Ethiopia totally rejected any claim on that Territory by the Chairman in response to the Prime Minister's by Somalia. opening address. 54 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexe15 169. The first words of welcome the Special Com­ and -µeople of Somalia for their invitation to the Special mittee had heard on its arrival in Mogadiscio, "As­ Committee to hold a part of its session in Mogadiscio. salaam aleikum/' (Peace be upon you t), were a symbol The welcome extended to the Special Committee was of faith in peace built upon justice, human brotherhood, an expression of the deep-seated confidence of the and the eradication of all forms of colonialism and ex­ people of Somalia in the United Nations. ploitation of man by man, faith in the imminence of 177. His delegation had been highly impressed. by absolute equality and justice everywhere, and especially the wise and inspiring statement by the Prime Minister, in Africa. and faith in the true emancipation of man which was a further indication of the confidence which and of his assumption of the dignified role long denied the Government and people of Somalia placed in the him as nn active builder of true progress and restorer United Nations. The hospitality extended to the of values and ideals. Special Committee was symbolic of the high values for 170. The representative of the Union of Soviet So­ which Somalia had been known throughout history; cialist Republics expressed his sincere thanks to the for it was history that bound the peoples of Somalia President of the Republic of Somalia and to the Somali and Iran in ties of friendship, religion and culture. Government and people for the warm welcome which 178. The representative of the United States of they had extended to the Special Committee. America, speaking on behalf of her country, thanked 171. The Somali Government had once again ex­ the people and Government of Somalia for their in­ pressed a desire for the immediate implementation of vitation to the Special Committee. The gratifying the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to esteem of Somalia for the United Nations had been Colonial Countries and Peoples in all countries still demonstrated 'by the Prime Minister's fine address of under the colonial yoke. Almost all the countries of welcome and by the arrangements made for the Com­ Africa and Asia had been freed from colonial domina­ mittee's work in Mogadiscio. tion except for a few, particularly in Africa, where 179. Somalia had a long and close association with milli0t1s of human beings continued to be exploited and the United Nations. As the Prime Minister had humiliated. That was why the Special Committee had pointed out in his address, Somalia exemplified the decided to hold its session in Africa. He was convinced assistance the international community could give to­ that the Special Committee's work in Somalia would wards the orderly transition of government to the constitute a further step towards the elimination of the people. last vestiges of colonialism in Africa. The Soviet 180. It was a source of pride that the United Union was the friend of the peoples who were strug•• Nations was giving technical assistance for the social, gling for freedom and had always supported the cou­ economic and educational development of a proudly rageous efforts of the African peoples to obtain their independent Somalia. independence. 181. As a member of the United Nations Trustee­ 172. The representative of Tunisia. thanked the ship Council~ the United States was happy to be able President of the Republic of Somalia~ the Prime to contribute to the development of Somalia's agricul­ Minister and the Somali people for having so cordially ture, port facilities, civilian security forces and-perhaps welcomed the Special Committee to Mogadiscio. Their most important of all for the country's future-schools touching hospitality was further proof of the trust and teacher-training facilities. which they had placed in the United Nations. He had 182. In conclusion, she extended the congratulations been particularly impressed by the address of the and best wishes of the United States to the Govern­ Prime Minister of Somalia, who had so ably expressed ment and people of Somalia for their further progress. his country's aspirations. The role that Somalia had played on various occasions in the United Nations, the 183. The representative of Venezitela endorsed the Organization of African Unity and the specialized remarks which the Chairman of the Special Com­ agencies was a particularly promising sign for its mittee bad made in response to the interesting address future. by the Prime Minister of Somalia. He thanked the Government and people of Somalia for the warm and 173. The representative of Sierra Leone said that unforgettable welcome they had given the members his delegation associated itself with the Chairman's of the Special Committee. He paid a tribute to the expression of thanks to the Prime Minister. courageous Somali people, who had succeeded in ob­ 174. Somalia itself had been under United Nations taining their independence and were now striving to trusteeship and was therefore in a unique position to maintain their position in the international community. understand the feelings of oppressed peoples. The 184. Venezuela was familiar with many of the invitation to the Special Committee to come to Moga­ problems that confronted Somalia today, some of discio had been no mere accic1ent, but a symbol of the them relating to sovereignty and to the inalienable Somali pledge to uproot colonialism and of the faith rights of their two peoples. That was the legacy which of the Somali people in the United Nations. Sierra had been left by the colonial era and which must Leone shared that faith and would continue to exert disappear. The Venezuelan delegation had accordingly itself to the utmost in the task of wiping out all forms welcomed the Chairman's decision to allow members of of oppression in Africa and elsewhere. the Somali delegation to participate as observers in 175. His delegation thanked the Government and the Special Committee's work. He was convinced that people of Somalia for their invitation to the Special that delegation's participation would help the Special Committee. Awareness that Somalis placed their Afri­ Committee to make progress toward its goal, viz., the can above their national identity made his delegation final eradication of colonialism. feel at home with close friends with whom it could 185. The representative of Bu(qaria thanked the work steadfastly towardc; the goal of ...1:ended to the Government of the Republic of So­ the principles of equity and self-determination-as a malia. He had been very impressed by the warm basis for world peace, which, without that basis, welcome which the Special Committee had received would be built on shifting sands. The Special Com­ upon its arrival at Mogadiscio and by the interest which mittee symbolized the dawn of the new er~. Its work the Soma.Ii people took in the work of the United would contribute to the liberation of millions of hu­ N atio11s in general and of the S~cial Committee in man beings who remained under the shackles of colo­ particular. The interesting speech made by the Prime nial rule in Southern Rhodesia, South Africa, Mozam­ Minister had been further proof of that. bique, Angola, French Somaliland, Southern Arabia, South West Africa, Portuguese Guinea and other 199. The cordial invitation of the Government of parts of the world. ThP- facts of the recent had given the Special Committee an oppor­ the human struggle for freedom, and the events that tunity, on the one hand, to become acquainted with had taken place in Africa, Asia and Latin America that country, which was striving to improve the living gave great hopes that the world was moving towards conditions of its inhabitants, and, on the other hand, liberty and that colonialism in all its forms was doomed. to continue the Committee's task of decolonization on the occasion of its further visit to Africa. Chile, which at one time had also lived under the colonial system, B. Closing of meetings attached particular importance to the struggle against General state:ments colonialism and every form of oppression. The Chilean 205. The representative of the United Republic of Government was following with interest the progress Tanzania, speaking on behalf of the Afro-Asian group which Somalia had made since its accession to inde­ and Yugoslavia, thanked the Government and people of pendence and offered it its best wishes for success. the Somali Republic for their warm hospitality and 200. The representative of Yugosla'VW, associated above all for having helped the Special Committee to his delegation with the statement made by the Chair­ further its aims-the eradiction of colonialism and the man in reply to the inspiring address by the Prime liberation of man in Africa and elsewhere. Minister. He also expressed his Government's grati­ 206. Whi]e resolution 1514 (XV), adopted by the tude to the President, Government and people of So­ General Assembly in 1960, had been a positive step malia for their invitation to the Special Committee to forward, none had over-estimated it, and-in the So­ hold some of its meetings in Mogadiscio. mali Prime Minister's words-the struggle against the 201. The fact that Yugoslavia enjoyed friendly re­ remaining enclaves of colonialism might prove to be the lations with Somalia enhanced his delegation's satis­ bitterest of all. faction at being in Mogadiscio. He believed that the 207. The problem of colonialism had to be attacked Special Committee's work there would lead to further from all angles, but always with a single aim: the positive results in the process of decolonization in Africa defeat of colonialism and the elimination of the ex­ and elsewhere, and that it would enable members of ploitation of man by man. The struggle for freedom the Committee to become better acquainted with the and independence was also one for peace, for. so long as people of Somalia and their efforts on behalf of eco­ colonialism existed there would be no real peace in nomic and social reconstruction. the world. 202. In conclusion, he expressed his country's best 208. The apartheid policy in South Africa and South wishes to the Government and people of Somalia in West Africa, the annihilation policy of Portugal and the efforts they were making to build prosperity and the butchering of Africans in Southern Rhodesia wer,· a better future for their beautiful country. crimes against humanity. Yet it was common knowl­ 203. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Somalia, edge that, while the forces committing those atrocities acknowledging the remarks made by members, wel­ were vile and criminal in themselves, they were the comed the Special Committee as champions of free­ tools of imperialism, which would stop at nothing to dom antl friends of peace. The people and Govern­ plunder Africa's resources and exploit the African ment of the Somali Republic wished the Committee working people. The studies made by the Special Com­ success in its search for the truth with regard to mittee had shown that foreign financial monopolies the great problem facing the Committee-a problem were impeding the attainment of freedom and inde­ which in fact was facing the whole world. His Gov­ pendence by the people of those Territories. It wa~ ernment was aware of the Committee's responsibility, therefore inevitable that the fight against colonialism and was fully prepared to assist in the serious task, should involve a clash of interests, with a resulting particularly in the case of French Somaliland, in threat to peace. which it was easier for his Government to express 209. The Afro-Asian group and Yugoslavia cate­ its opinion in detail, since it was one of the three gorically condemned colonialism. They adhered to the Somali Territories still under foreign domination. principles of the United Nations Charter and the Uni­ 204. The city of Mogadiscio was the capital of two versal Declaration of Human Rights and would con­ former colonies- and British So­ tinue their efforts to secure the implementation of Gen­ maliland. On 1 July 1960, the two had eral Assembly resolution 1514 (XV). achieved their independence and unification. The de­ 210. There were two main ways by which colo­ sire for unity of Somalis living in the two former nialism could be eliminated. The first way was that of Addendum to agenda item 23 57 persuasion, which had been followed, for example, in sion at Mogadiscio. He assured it that Venezuela and the case of South West Africa. That had been the Chile would spare no effort to ensure that the lofty course which the United Nations had chosen to fol- ideals of the United Nations triumphed throughout the low· it had led to the establishment of the Fourth Com- world. mittee of the General Assembly, the Trusteeship Coun- 219. He also thanked the President of the Somali cil and, finally, the Special Committee. By that method, Republic and the Somali people for having received the colonial Powers were daily urged to give up their the Special Committee with a friendliness and warmth colonies and to lay down a programme for their inde- which it would never forget. pendence; but the conditions for their independence 220. The representative of Ethiopia joined the repre- were laid down in resolution 1514 (XV). So far, the sentatives of Tanzania and Chile in thanking the method of persuasion had not been very successful. Government and people of Somalia for the hospitality 211. Then there was the second way: a bitter strug- e,."'(tended to the Special Committee. gle, the history of which would be written in the blood 221. The words which had been exchanged be- of the freedom fighters. tween himself and the Foreign Minister of Somalia 212. He was sure that all peace-loving people would would not interfere with personal and official brotherly prefer to take the first course of action, but the colo- relations. Indeed those exchanges were but a de- nial Powers would not see reason. Their lack of co- monstration of the open-mindedness with which Ethio- operation had already shaken th~ faith in the United pia and Somalia approached their common problems. Nations of many Africans. It would be indeed regret- The differences were only a temporary phase which table if the Special Committee, for example, came to be would be forgotten; for the existing bonds of friend- regarded n.;; merely a resolution-passing body. ship were eternal. His delegation would take home 213. As experience· had shown, the accumulation happy memories of hospitality, new friendships and of frustration eventually lef.t subjugated people with renewed acquaintances. He hoped that those acquaint- no alternative but to .fight to the bitter end. That had ances would bloom into a wider and greater friend- happened in Algeria, Kenya and many other parts ship. of the world, and was in fact happening in Mozam- 222. Finally, he expressed his delegation's gratitude bique, Angola and elsewhere in Africa at the present to the Somali Government and voiced the hope that time . · Ethiopia and Somalia would flourish in friendship and 214. He was sure that he was expressing the sen- freedom for the sake of the whole of Africa. timents not only of the Afro-Asian members of the 223. The representative of Poland, spc:iking on be- Special Committee and Yugoslavia but also of the half of the delegations of Poland, the USSR, Bulgaria peace-loving people of Somalia, when he warned the and Czechoslovakia, thanked the Government and pea- colonial Powers to recognize the inevitable and to pie of Somalia for their kindness and hospitality. avoid bloodshed. Africans were determined to free 224. The meetings of the Special Committee had their brothers, whatver the cost; they would fight to always been inspiring, and he felt that progress was the bitter end. The colonial Powers could not change being made towards the implementation of the Decla- the course of history. ration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial 215. He assured the freedom fighters who had Countries and Peoples. He had been struck by the appeared before the Special Committee of support in determination of the African peoples, as borne out in their legitimate struggle, and urged them to maintain the Prime Minister's stirring address, to strive to- their unity of purpose and action. As President Nyerere wards freedom. and independence. The stubbornness had said, "You, our brothers under the colonial yoke, of the colonial Powers ir. opposing those just aspira- must fight or else you will be cowards. And those tions was fraught with danger. The Special Committee of us who are independent must help you even had the obligation to support the right of all peoples if this means shedding blood. If we do not do so to self-determination, and the best way to reminding we wilt be cowards." the imperialist forces of that commitment was to show 216. He called on the people of Somalia to re- a united front against colonialist oppression. member that Africans could not rest until all Af- 225. The representative of Italy, speaking on be- rica was free from colonialism. They were deter- half of the delegations of Australia, Denmark and the mined to defeat the forces of apartheid, wipe out Por- United States, and also .of his own delegation, ex- tuguese colonialism, crush the racist minority regime in pressed appreciation to the President, the Government Zimbabwe and eradicate French colonialism in French and the people of Somalia for their hospitality and Somaiiland. The freedom fighters should continue to warm welcome. The members of the Special Committee wage their wars, and their friends would do everything had had the opportunity, during their brief but en- possible to see that the United Nations helped them joyable stay in Mogadiscio, to admire the progress to gain their lost freedom. Freedom was indivisible made by Somalia during its six: years of independence and could not be isolated from peace. and had also been able to make further progress in 217. In conclusion, on behalf of the Afro-Asian the important task entrusted to them by the United members of the Committee and Yugoslavia, he again Nations, in accordance with the Charter and the Decla- thanked the President, the Government and the pea- ration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial ple of Somalia for their cordial hospitality. Their Countries and Peoples. He extended to the Govern- enthusiasm would serve to remind the colonial Powers ment and people of Somalia sincere wishes for their how eager Africans were for their continent to be future happiness and prosperity. free. 226. The representa.tive of the Secretary-General, 218. The representative of Chile, spealdng on behalf speaking on behalf of all members of the Secretariat, of the Venezuelan and Chilean delegations, thanked expressed gratitude to the Government and people of the Government of the Somali Republic for having in- Somalia for their generous hospitality and for all the vited the Special Committee to hold a part of its ses- facilities made available during the Special Committee's 58 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexes visit to Mogadiscio. The Ministers of the Government, liberations in Somalia and wished it every success the Chief of Cabinet in the Prime Minister's Office in its humane endeavours to liberate those still under and the Somali Ambassadors who had attended the foreign domination. He also expressed appreciation Committee's meetings in Mogadiscio, to name but a to the Chairman for allowing observers from Somalia few, had been among those who had eased the Sec­ to participate in the Committee's meetings in Moga­ retariat's task and made its stay in Mogadiscio so discio and Addis Ababa. Somalia was anxious to con­ enje,Jable. tribute to the cause of freedom and would spare no 227. The Chairman expressed gratitude, on behalf effort to further the liberation of all subjugated peoples. of all members of the Special Committee, to the Presi­ dent, the Government and the people of Somalia. The C. MEETINGS HELD AT ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA Committee's visit to Mogadiscio, which had been most constructive, had deepened its understanding of the Opening of meetin_qs significance of the colonial peoples' struggle to re­ Address by the Minister for Foreign Affairs on behalf gain their independence and had demonstrated the con­ of His lm,Perial Majesty, the Emperor of Ethiopia cern, both of the United Nations anc'! of the Special Committee, for those peoples. Possibly the most im­ 232. The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, portant aspP.ct of the United Nations work, as evidenced welcoming the Committee to Addis Ababa, expressed by the Committee's visit to various African capitals, the hope that its deliberations would prove fruitful was its involvement in the question of decolonization. and constitute a further step towards the liberation The warm welcome extended to the Committee by the of the still-dependent peoples and territories. Somali people was of special significance since, as the 233. He read out a message of the Special Com­ Prime Minister had so graciously observed, Somalia mittee from His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie I: owed its independence brgely to the work of the United "On behalf of Ourselves, Our Government and Nations. Moreover, as a result of its visit to Moga­ the Ethiopian people, We are pleased to welcome discio, the Committee had been able to gain further once more distinguished members of the United information from the petitioners about the situation in Nations Special Committee on the Situation with French Somaliland and in Aden. regard to the Implementation of the Declaration 228. He joined previous speakers in expressing the on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Coun­ earnest hope that the Special Committee would make tries and Peoples. a substantial contribution to the speedy attainment of "The importance of this Committee cannot be independence by the colonized Territories. over-emphasized. Its intrinsic value lies in its at­ tempt to foster the achievement by the United Statement by the Minister for Forei.gn Affairs Nations of one of the fundamental human rights, of Somalia which is to lead peoples and countries still under 229. The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Somalia, colonial yoke to freedom and independence. We are thanking the Chairman and members of the Special all cognizant of the fact that the struggle for free­ Committee for their kind words of appreciation, said dom must and will always end in victory. Free­ that the Government and people of Somalia had been dom being the aim of this Committee, it shall be privileged to act as the Committee's host, albeit for achieved. There is 110 question as to whether free­ only a brief period. During its meetings in Mogadiscio, dom should be attained, but rather how best it the Committee had been able to learn of the aspirations should be reached. Thus, the main concern of this of the peoples of French Somaliland and South Arabia, Committee becomes to suggest ways and means although it was to be regretted that the petitioners to achieve this end as best it could. from the Seychelles and Mauritius had been unable to "It is in its choice of means that the Committee appear. encounters monumental problems. V.! e are con­ 230. The Special Committee's arrival in Mogadiscio scious that there are opposing forces at work: on the had heen a cause of rejoicing since it had provided the one hand the forces which unceasingly search for people of French Sornaliland with the oportunity to freedom, and on the other, the forces of oppression express their views without fear or favour. Further­ which attempt to deter freedom. A typical example more, all Somalis had a special regard for the United of such conflict of forces is the unlawful Govern­ Nations, under whose guidance their country had ment in Southern Rhodesia. Except for such pro­ emerged from trusteeship adminisb·ation to sovereign ponents of injustice like South Africa and Portugal, independence, and they were grateful for the assis­ all freedom-loving States have condemned this racist tance which that Organization continued to render. and minority Government. We trust that a majority Somali people still under foreign rule were confident rule will take over in Zimbabwe. But how and that their representations would receive full considera­ when? It is here that the Committee has to apply tion by the Committee which, they believed, would itself and suggest means. Since the measures that not be influenced by outside pressure but would be have been tried to force down the illegal Govern­ motivated only by its awareness of the inalienable ment seem to be ineffective, this Committee will right of the people of French Somaliland to self­ have to consider other methods, m~thods that we determination and independence. The Committee's ar­ can perhaps adopt in concert. No matter how hard rival in J'Jrica had been long awaited by the millions the choice may be, We are confident that the mem­ who still suffered under colonial domination, since bers of this Committee will fulfil the noble task it was a symbol of the freedom and dignity of man­ entrusted to them. kind and represented the principles enshrined in the "We know that as long as there are men who United Nations Charter. believe that one race is superior to the other and 231. Lastly, he th~nked the Special Committee, on that they can lead the destinies of other men by behalf of the people and Government of Somalia, for any means, there shall be no peace. As long ati there the patience and understanding shown during its de- is going to be groundless irredentism and inter- Addendum to agenda item 23 ference in other States' internal affairs, there is solute priority to decolonization, for 1iberation was the still not going to be peace. It is only by adhering prerequisite for the fulfilment of all the aspirations of to the principles set out in the Charters of the United the African Governments and peoples. 'fhat profound Nations and the Organization of African Unity that truth had been solemnly reaffirmed throughout the we can achieve our aims, and that our unity will continent only a few days earlier, on African Lib• grow stronger. On Our part, vV e assure you that eration Day commemorating the third anniversary of Vv e will never tire in our endeavours to free our its signing of the OAU charter. brethren who are still under the yoke of colonialism. 239. Because the task of liberation was one of the "\Ve are aware that the job you are charged with OAU's fundamental objectives and constant concerns, is not easy, but vVe hope and pray that God will and because co-operation between, on the one hand, guide you during your deliberations." the OAU and, on the other hand, the United Nations 234. Adding his own expression of appreciation for in general and the Special Committee in particular had the Special Committee's work, he said that Ethiopia­ functioned perfectly in the course of the past year, a Member of the United Nations and of the Special the OAU proposed to change the form of its con­ Committee since their inception-had always done tribution to the Addis Ababa deliberations in 1966. its utmost to contribute towards fruitful deliberations. 240. He and his staff placed themselves at the Spe­ Having itself had five years' experience of harsh co­ cial Committee's disposal, not only for attendance as lonial domination, it had never hesitated to give moral observers at the discussion that would take place on and material aid to peop~es struggling for indepen­ each agenda item, but also for participation in any dence, and its delegation would continue to give effec­ other exchange of views that might be thought de­ tive support to the Committee's work. sirable on matters of common concern to the Special Committee and the OAU. His organization was ready State1n.ent by the Administrative S r:.:retary-General of to co-operate with the Special Committee as fully the Organizatfon of Afrirnn Unity as possible in view of the close solidarity linking Af­ 235. The Administr::;.tive Secretary-General of the rica to the international community in the task of Organ-ization of African Unity said that he was proud decolonization, to which the OAU was devoting its to be a:Jle to associate his organization with the many best efforts. people, who, from Dar e·s Salaam, via Mogadiscio to 241. He was glad that the Special Committee had Addis Ababa, had welcomed the Special Committee to decided to include in its agenda the question of the Africa and expressed, in addition to their own pleas­ liberation of the sma11 Territories that were still de­ ure, Africa's fervent hopes for the full success of its pendent, the colonial enclaves scattered all over the derolonizing mission. African continent. The OAU was as concerned about the fate of those small Territories as it was about 236. At Addis Ababa, where the OAU had its head­ the fate of the big colonies, for a question of principle quarters, the staff of the Organization's Secretariat par­ was involved. The decolonization to which the OAU ticularly welcomed the Special Committee's happy de­ aspired and for which it was working should cover cision to make yet another pilgrimage to the source, all the African Territories, large or small, rich or which would enable it to grasp the extreme gravity of poor. The African peoples would not be fully satis­ the situation created in Africa by the survival of colo­ fied on that score until the last square inch of Afri­ nial rule, and the imperative need to put an end to can soil bad been withdrawn from non-African au­ the colonial and racist adventures against which all thority. African people and their leaders had 1Jeen forced to rise in protest. 242. In that connexion he considered it his duty to bring to the Special Committee's knowledge a 237. He wished to express to the United Nations, fact that had just been pointed out to him bv the through the Special Committee, the faith and confi­ secretariat of the OAU Liberation Committee at dence of the OAU, but also the impatience and le­ Dar es Salaam: the Comoro Islands had been omitted gitimate anxiety of the African peoples at the slow­ both from the list of small African Territories on ness with which the process of peaceful decolonization which the Special Committee intended to concen­ was· taking place under the auspices of the interna­ trate its attention, and from the general list of de­ tional community. The OAU fully realized that for pendent Territories drawn up by the Committee. The the United Nations, almost six years previously, the OAU was sure that, if such an omission had been problem of decolonization had been solved in principle made, it could only be the result of a clerical error by the adoption of the historic Declaration of 14 De­ or an uttintentional oversight, and the organization cember 1960 on the granting of unconditional indepen­ would be grateful if the Special Committee would dence to all territories and all peoples still living under make the necessary correction. It was quite clear that foreign domination. The adoption of that Declaration, the Comoros were among the off-shore islands of and the establishment in 1961 of a Special Committee Africa and, under the Special Committee's terms of to find the quickest and most effective ways and means reference, its competence extended to all dependent of giving effect to the decolonization policy thus de­ Territories, whatever the legal ties which bound those fined, had aroused throughout the world, and particu­ Territories to the colonial Powers occupying them. larly in Africa, immense hopes and a special fervour 243. The salient feature of the current situation which was obviously both sincere and profound. in Africa was the aggravation of the threat to inter­ 238. The OAU, an instrument of concerted co­ national peace and security constituted by the survival operation among the independent States of Africa, had of colonialism and by the strengthening, during the been conceived and organized in the same spirit of past year, of the alliance formed between Portugal, confidence and fervour that typified Africa's feelings South Africa. and the Rhodesian settlers in order to towards the United Nations, its Charter, its various consolidate their hold over the entire southern part agencies and, of course, the Special Committee. The of the African continent and to ensure the perpetu­ African Heads of State and Government had given ah- ation of colonial and racist domination there. It was ....._,_ 60 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexes~~------a known fact that that unholy alliance of the most General state111,ents backward regimes of oppression-all three of which 248. The Chairnzan expressed the Special Com­ had been unanimously condemned, on several occa­ mittee's deep appreciation for the encouraging adrlress siorn;, by the United Nations-nevertheless had its by the ::Minister for Foreign Affairs on behalf nf His accomplices among the powerful. Those accomplices Imperial Majesty, the Emperor of Ethiopia. The long, were the forces-individuals, companies or States­ bitter but successful struggle by His Imperial Majesty which had made investments in the south of the con­ and the Government and people of Ethiopia to safe­ tinent, which lived by the exploitation of African guard the independence of their country, as well as wealth in that region, and which thus bore a large their devotion to the objectives of the United Nations share of responsibility for the deterioration of the situ­ Charter, would be a source of inspiration to the ation and for the bloody tragedy besetting the peo­ Committee. ples of South Africa, Southern Rhodesia and the Ter­ ritories under Portuguese domination. The need now, 249. He also expressed gratitude for the open~ so far as decolonization was concerned, was not for handed welcome and hospitality offered to the Special Committee. The history of such hospitality went back resolutions but for solutions. to biblical times, and it was truly African in its gen­ 244. The colonial wars forced on the African peo­ erosity. Many members had the privilege of visiting ples, the many acts of oppression, the various forms Ethiopia on previous occasions, of forming close fra­ of vcx~tion ancl lmmilic.. tion which almost everywhere, ternal ties with its people; their pleasure on the present hacl driven their African victims to take up arms, occasion was shared by those who were visiting Ethiopia all went to show how, in the current phase of de­ for the first time. colonization, the threat presented by colonialism to 250. It had been with whole-hearted gratification international peace and security in Africa had wors­ that the Special Committee had ;iccepted the invita­ ened. The situation necessarily raised the question of tion of the Government of Ethiopia to hold some the responsihility borne by the great Powers which of its meetings in Addis Ababa. That that was the third under the United Nations Charter, were the guardians such invitation testified to the importance the Ethi­ of world peace. The Special Committee should devote opian Government attached to the Committee's work, a consideral)le share of its efforts to stressing that while its oresence for the third time in Addis Ababa responsibility on the part of the great Powers, in or­ was in it; turn evidence of the esteem in which the der to induce them to extinguish, 1Y fore it was too Committee held the continuing contribution of the 1at.e, the fires that colonialism and its allies were busily Ethiopian Government towards the total and speedy lighting all over Africa. elimination of colonialism. 245. All the foregoing strengthened the OAU's co_n­ 251. It was fitting that the Spedal Committee should viction that the Security Council should act on tts be meeting in Africa Hall where, in May 1963, the specific responsibilities in the drama which was un­ charter of the OAU had been signed, and which folding in Africa, and which might well plunge the had witnessed a largP number of important and far­ world into a blood-bath. It was generally known that reaching OAU decisions aimed at the liberation of all the material interests ,vhich were directly or indi­ Territories still under colonial rule in Africa. He was rectly supporting the colonialist and racist regimes in confident that the Committee would be stimulated by Africa were also paralysing the Security Council and the example of the OAU and would in its turn make had so far prevented it from meeting the expectations further effective contributions to the application of the of the oppressed African peoples. Nothing, however, Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Co­ not even the repeated disappointments caused by the lonial Countries and Peoples. recent Security Council debates on Southern Rho­ 252. The work of the Special Committee in Af­ desia. could altogether extinguish the hope of seeing rica had so far been constructive. Further testimony the United Nations face up to its responsibilities in had been heard of the grave deterioration of the sit­ .1\.frica .. uation in Southern Rhodesia and of the reprehensible 246. It should be remembered that complicity and failure of the United Kingdom Government to take inaction in the face of aggression by fascist Italy effective steps to end the rebellion of the racist minor­ against the African people of Ethiopia had started ity regime and to establish democratic conditions on the League of Nations on the fatal down grade which the basis of one man, one vote, with a view to the was to bring it swiftly to an inglorious fall. The speedy iranting of independence. An important reso­ United Nations should ponder that example, and the lution (A/AC.109/167) had been adopted which, if implemented, would lead to the liquidation of the Security Council should avoid bringing upon it the colonial regime in Southern Rhodesia. fate of the League of Nations. 253. Further evidence had also been heard of the 247. The Special Committee could and should intolerable conditions under which the peoples of play a great role in that regard by insisting against Angola and Mozambique were suffering, of the crimi­ all opposition that, in view of the scope and gravity nal acts being carried out by the Portuguese, and of of the problems presented by colonialism and racism, their flagrant refusal to apply the principle of self­ the Security Council should come and meet in Africa determination. in order to understand more clearly, in contact with African realities, that it simply must act and act quick­ 254. Valuable testimony had been given concerning ly. It was doubtful that academic debates in New York, Basutoland, Bechuanaland and Swaziland, which em­ whatever faith and courage were shown by the Afri­ phasized the need to ensure that their progress to­ cans and their friends, would make the Security Coun­ wards independence should be unconditional and in cil change its attitude. Perhaps, however, a session of accordance with the aspirations of the people. the Security Council in Africa might bring about the 255. Petitioners had also been heard concerning desired change before it was too late. French Somaliland and had provided valuable infor- Addendum to agenda item 23 61 rnation which should assist in objective consideration from their hopes for the development of the continent. of the question. His delegation was happy to be in Africa Hall, the seat 256. He was confident that the Special Committee's of the OAU. He expressed bis delegation's appreciation deliberations at Addis Ababa concerning Soltth West of the statement by the Secretary-General of that or­ Africa, Basutoland, Bechuanaland and Swaziland, Ifni ganization, its confidence that his endeavours would and Spanish Sahara, and French Somaliland would meet with increasing success, and its strong support yield positive and fruitful results. for his suggestion that the Comoro question be placed 257. The Chairman, replying to the statement by on the Committee's agenda. the Administrative Secretary-General of the Organi­ 263. The representative of the Union of Soviet zation of African Unity, recalled the Special Com­ Socialist Republics thanked His Imperial Majesty the mittee's resolution of 18 June 1965 (A/6000/Rev. 1,2 Emperor and the Government and people of Ethiopia chap. II, para. 463) expressing the hope that the co­ for their kind invitation. The Special Committee had operation between it and the Organization of African already met at Addis Ababa the previous year and had Unity would be intensified, and General Assembly adopted some very important recommendations, which resolution 2011 (XX) of 11 October 1965 adopted had served as a basis for the decisions taken by the at its twentieth session on the same subject. In the General Assembly at its twentieth session. One of the light of those resolutions the Committee could be most practical measures had been the establishment of especially gratified by the presence of the Adminis­ direct contact with the OAU representatives who had trative Secretary-General of the OAU, whose out­ participated in the work of the Special Committee. lining of his organization's position regarding the Such contact should be frequent, so that the existing various problems of dec0lonization in Africa had been links between the United Nations and the OAU might very impressive. The Committee attached great impor­ be tightened, the struggle against colonialism made tance to the collaboration with the OAU in the at­ more effective, and resolution 1514 (XV) applied. tainment of the common objective of the total and 264. He thanked Mr. Diallo Telli for his significant speedy elimination of colonialism. address. He, for his part, hoped that African unity 258. The representative of Demnark expressed his would be strengthened still further in order to wage delegation's gratitude to His Imperial Majesty and a more effective struggle against the remaining vestiges the Government of Etl-iiopia for having invited the of colonialism. Special Committee to Addis Ababa, the capital of 265. The representative of Afghanistan associated a proud people with a long and glorious history, and himself with the thanks expressed by other members centre of the activities of the OAU. of the Committee of His Imperial Majesty and the 259. Although economic and political unity in Af­ Government of Ethiopia for their hospitality, and also rica was still perhaps a remote goal, the Special Com­ to H.E. Mr. Diallo Telli for his inspiring address. mittee had had daily evidence that the free Africans 266. The representative of Venezuela thanked His were united in their fight for the freedom of their Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie I and the Ethiopian brothers under colonial rule. He ,::xpressed the hope Go~,ernment and people, who had once again enabled that the long and !'lard struggle, lik~ that of the world­ the Special Committee to get into touch with African famous Ethiopian marathon runner, would lead to a rt'alities and to return to Addis Ababa, that bastion successful conclusion, and conveyed the best wishes of freedom and independence. of his Government for a bright future in peace and 267. The representative of lvfali thanked His Im­ prosperity. perial Majesty the Emperor and the Ethiopian Govern­ 260. The representative of Iran associated his dele­ ment and people for their invitation and their warm gation with the thanks that had been expressed to His welcome. His delegation was happy to be in Addis Imperial Majesty and the Government and people of Ababa, that great capital and symbol of African unity, Ethiopia. He was greatly impressed by the progress which had raised so many hopes. The message from that had been made during the year since his last His Imperial Majesty, which the Ethiopian Minister visit. New buildings and roads had been constructed for Foreign Affairs had kindly read to the members of and. new aerial routes opened up, while political, so­ the Committee, would be a source of inspiration to all cial and cultural evolution had continued apace. Ethi­ delegations. opia had carried on the struggle for the independence 268. He was also glad to have heard the indignant of subjugated peoples in other countries, and was voice of .Mr. Diallo Telli, the Administrative Secretary­ bringing the fruits of liberty to its own people on the General of the OAU, who had spoken feelingly about principle of justice and prosperity for all. The message the liberation of millions of Africans now languishing of His Imperial Majesty would be a source of great in poverty and oppression. inspiration to the Committee, as would the statement by the Secretary-General of the OAU. 269. The representative of India expressed his grati­ tude to His Imperial Majesty the Emperor and to the 261. The representative of the U,.ited Republic of Government of Ethiopia for their generous invitation, Tanzania expressed his delegation's thanks to His Im­ and recalled the unique position and significant con­ perial lVIajesty and to the Government and people of tribution of Ethiopia in the struggle against colonialism, Ethiopia for the cordial invitation extended to the and the many ties and shared ideals it had with his Special Committee, and for the wise inaugural statement. own country. 262. Ethiopia's safeguarding and defence of its in­ dependence had been a source of inspiration to the 270. The representative of Poland johted previous United Republic of Tanzania. Strong bonds of friend­ speakers in expressing appreciation to the Government ship existed between the two countries, stemming from and people of Ethiopia for their hospitality and warm their desire far advancement in their own countries and welcome. The message delivered by the Ethiopian Fo~eign Mi1!-ister, on be~alf of His Imperial Majesty 2 Official Records of the General Assembly, Twentieth Ses­ Haile Selassie, would gmde and encourage the Special sion, Amie.i-es, addendum to agenda item 23. Committee in its deliberations. 62 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexes 271. Poland and Ethiopia were bound by ties of meetings of the Security Council should be held in friendship, as evidenced by the official visit in December Africa with a view to settling the dangerous situation 1965 of the Chairman of the Council of State in his prevailing in Southern Rhodesia, South Africa, South country to Ethiopia. During that visit, the two nations West Africa and the Portuguese colonies, a situation had reiterated their support for the struggle for free­ which was a threat to peace in Africa and in the entire dom of such countries as AngolaJ Mozambique and world. Portuguese Guinea. They had also condemned all racial 279. The representative of Chile expressed his discrimination and had urged the full implementation gratitude to His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Haile of the Security Council's resolutions on Southern Selassie I, for having invited the Special Committee Rhodesia. to hold a part of its session in Ethiopia. 272. He expressed appreciation for the address by the Secretary-General of the OAU and said that it had 280. Chile had welcomed the establishme11t of the always been his delegation's firm conviction that the OAU in 1963, and that organization had already Committee's objectives could best be achieved if it achieved very satisfactory results. It was unfortunate joined its efforts with those of the OAU. that such an organization, which should devote itself solely to improving the economic, social and cultural 273. The representative of Tunisia thanked the Gov­ co_nditions of the African peoples, lwd to concern itself ernment and the people of Ethiopia for their hospitality with such problems as colonialism, which ought not and all their efforts to enable the Special Committee even to exist in the contemporary world, since freedom successfully to complete its decolonizing mission. He belonged by right to all without distinction. also expressed gratitude to the Minister for Foreign Affairs for his inaugural statement and for the message 281. He had listened with interest to the Adminis­ from His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Haile Selassie I, trative Secretary-General of the OAU, who had given which he had been good enough to convey to the Special a very comprehensive picture of the situation in his Committee and which would be a source of inspiration statem~t. He ~elcomed the close co-operation between to the Committee throughout its deliberations. the Umted Nat10ns and the OAU, which enabled the 274. In addition, he unreservedly supported the ideas O:AU to par?cipate in the work oi the Special Com­ expressed ir, the statement made by Mr. Diallo Telli, mittee. Despite many efforts, the results achieved to the Administrative Secretary-General of the OAU, date had hardly been outstanding. owing to the resist­ which reflected the profound aspirations of millions of ance of certain Members of the United Nations which did not respect the resolutions of the General Assembly Africans still groaning under the colonial yoke. The and the Security Council. attitude of the Tunisian Government would be moulded by the principles of the United Nations Charter and _282. Th~ repr~sentative of the Ivory Coast thanked would be based on the pertinent resolutions adopted His Imperial MaJesty, Emperor Haile Selassie I for on decolonization. his wise message which the Minister for Foreign Affairs 275. He agreed with the Administrative Secretary­ had transmitted to the Special Committee. That message General of the OAU, and with other speakers, that it was further proof of the persevering and conciliatory was very unfortunate that the question of the Comoro efforts which His Imperial Majesty had made both Islands had not been included in the Special Com­ at the United Nations and in the OAU, to foster' peace mittee's agenda and he hoped that the omission would between peoples. He also thanked the Administrative soon be remedied. He welcomed the fact that there Secretary-General of the OAU for a clear and precise was close co-operation between the United Nations and statement which he would certainly bear in mind during the OAU, since both pursued a common ideal, namely, the work of the Special Committee. liberation of peoples under colonial domination and 283. The representative of Syria paid a tribute to improvement of their lot. the Government and the people of Ethiopia for their 276. The representative of Bulgaria also thanked contribution to the liberation and the unity of Africa, his Imperi:il Majesty, Emperor Haile Selassie I. and and expressed appreciation of their hospitality. the Ethiopian people for their generous invitation to 284. He supported the statement made in the pre­ the Special Committee. ceding meeting by the Administrative Secretary-General 277. The Bulgaria11 Government, which unreservedly of the OAU and wished that organization success in its supported African peoples in their attempt to storm task of liberating oppressed peoples. the last bastions of colonialism, attached very great 285 .. The representative of Yugoslavia expressed his importance to the Special Committee's current session delegat10n's gratitude to His Imperial Majesty the in Africn. The fact that the peoples of Africa had Emper~r, to the Government and people of Ethiopia chosen Addis Ababa, in which the United Nations had for their hospitality, and to Mr. Diallo Telli for his also set up several international organizations, as the important statement. site for the headquarters of the OAU, clearly demon­ strated their gratitude to Ethiopia, a country which had 286. The representative of Sierra Leone was· grati­ continually fought to free the oppressed peoples of fied by the warm welcome extended by His Imperial Africa. Majesty the Emperor and by the Government and 278. He was particularly grateful to Mr. Diallo Telli, people of Ethiopia. Addis Ababa was the birth-place the Administrative Secretary-General of the OAU, for and headquarters of the Organization of African Unity his confidence in the Special Committee. He agreed and a source of inspiration in the stru~ale for freedom with him that the burning colonial problems in Africa and independence. ...,.:, called not for resolutions but for solutions, and that 287. The representative of Iraq, recalling the long­ effective measures must be taken against the racist, standing ties of Ethiopia with the Arab world thanked colonialist and minority regimes of South Africa, Por­ His Imperial Majesty the Emperor and the' Govern­ tugal and Southern Rhodesia. He also approved of ment of Ethiopia for their warm welcome and Mr. the Administrative Secretary-General's suggestion that Diallo Telli for his statement. Addendum to agenda item 23 63 288. The representative of Italy sa~d that. the pres­ words of the Chairman and members of the Special ence of the Special Committee ~n Addis A~aba for the Committee to his organization's Administrative Secre­ third time in five years constituted ~ tribute _to !he tary-General, who regretted that owing to unavoida~le people of Ethiopia for their outs~andmg ~ontnb~t10n circumstances he was unable to be present at the closmg to decolonization. He thanked His Imperial Ma1esty meeting. He was gratified to hear of the Committee's the Emperor, the Government and the people of desire for closer liaison with the OAU, whose repre­ Ethiopia for their generous hospitality. sentative in New York maintained close contact with 289. The representative of the Unit~d. States of it, as well as with the Special Committee on the Po~icies America deemed it an honour and a privilege to . be of Apartheid of the Government of the Republic of present in Addis Ababa, and recalled the long-standing South Africa. ties between her own country and Ethiopia. 296. The one important aim of the OAU was the 290. The representative of Australia wished first to total liquidation of colonialism and racism from the ~on­ offer to His Imperial Majesty, Haile Selassie I, and to tinent-a sine qua non for the strengthening of African the great and ancient land of Ethiopia_, the h~mage of unity. The struggle would be pursued unremitt!ngly by his delegation's deepest respects and. its gratitude for Africans until the whole continent was free. History the kindnesses extended to the Comnuttee. It was most and experience had shown that nothing could hold back fitting that the revitalized heart of Africa should pu!sate the march of freedom : the freedom fighters would over­ so stronglv from a country which had not gone the come all obstacles and win the support of all decent way of 111any ancient civilizations, but was building men and women. firmly on a magnificen~ past. A 1?eautiful symbol ?f that 297. He regretted that the Committee had been fresh vigour was Africa Hall itself. He had _hstene_d unable to discuss the question of Comoro in accordance with the o-reatest respect to the message which His with the wishes of the Administrative Secretary-General Imperial Majesty had graciously sent to. the C<;>~ittee. of the OAU, but hoped h would find it possible to do and had noted the words of the Foreign Mm1ster of so during its later meetings. He expressed the hope Ethiopia and the Secretary-General of the OAU. The that the Committee's discussion in the next two African Australian delegation would faithfully place all those capitals it was to visit would be as fruitful as those communications before its Government. b Addis Ababa. 291. Associating hims"elf with those who had ex­ pressed appreciation of the statement by the Adminis­ General statements trative Secretary-General of the OAU, the representa­ 298. The Chairman, on behalf of all members of the tive of Ethiop-ia said that his delegation whole-heartedly Committee, expressed gratitude to his Imperial Majesty shared his view on the need for speedy elimination of and the Government of Ethiopia for their kind invitation the remaining vestiges of colonialism in Africa, and to the Special Committee; for all the facilities put at deeply appreci~ted the tre1,:nen_dous efforts that t_he OAU its disposal, which had contributed in such large meas­ was making. That orgamzabon and the Special Com­ ure to the success of its work; for their generous and mittee had common aims and objectives, and the forth­ gracious hospitality; and for the privilege of another right statement was an important contribution to the opportunity to strengthen contacts and friendship with Committee's work. the people of Ethiopia. He alc;o expressed gratification 292. Responding to the representatives' ex~ressions at the collaboration of the OAU through its Adminis­ of appreciation of the welcome they had received, he trative Secretary-General, whose participation had been said that as His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie I of great benefit. had said.' they had only returned to their own home, 299. It could be said with assurance that the mis­ and it was a great joy for the Ethiopian Government givings of one or two members concerning the advisa­ and people to welcome them again. As a country that bility of the Special Committee's meetings held in had had to fight for its very existence against maraud­ Africa had proved groundless. If evidence were needed, ing foreign Powers through its long and chequered it was only necessary to examine the results so far history, Ethiopia had an interest in seeing colonialism achieved by the Committee and the resolutions adopted; bani~hed from the earth. that morning, for instance, it had adopted a highly im­ 293. He hoped that the facilities put at the Special portant and constructive resolution on South West Committee's disposal by his Government would assist Africa recommending, ittter alia, that the Security in its work. Council should make it obligatory for all States to im­ 294. The peoples of Mozambique, Angola, Zim­ plement the measures contained in General Assembly babwe, South vVest Africa and other oppressed Terri­ resolution 1899 (XVIII). In so doing it had discharged tories were awaiting the day of deliverance, and looked one of the tasks specifically assigned to it by the Gen­ to the Special Committee with hope and expectation. eral Assembly in paragraph 5 of resolution 2105 (XX), The Committee could look back with pride at the suc­ which requested the Special Committee to apprise the cesses it had achieved, but as long as colonialism and Security Council of developments in any Territory the exploitation of man continued, there was no room for examined by it which might threaten international complacency. His delegation was determined to con­ peace and security, and to make suggestions that might tinue the work with renewed vigour during the Com­ assist the Council in considering appropriate measures mittee's remaining sessions in Africa. under the United Nations Charter. Closing of 1neetings 300. The Committee had also adopted that morning a resolution concerning Basutoland, Bechuanaland and Statement by the representative of the Adniinistrative Swaziland (see chap. VII, para. 237), aimed first at Secretary-General of the Organization of African ensuring that• the progress of the Territories towards Unity independence should be based on the free expression 295. The representative of the Or,qa.nizatimi of Afri­ of the people in conformity with resolution 1514 (XV) ; can Unity said that he would convey the encouraging secondly, at securing territorial integrity and sover- 64 General Assembly-Twent¥-:first Session-Annexes eignty ; and thirdly, at improving theh economic situa­ hers would continue their great mission with the per­ tion. Those resolutions, together with the discussions sistence and determination they had always displayed. that had taken place concerning Southern Rhodesia, Meanwhile the President wished them a happy s!ay Aden, Iini ··nd Spanish Sahara were adequate justifica­ among the people of the United Arab Republic. tion for the Committee's visit to Africa. He was con­ 307. It was the Foreign Minister's privilege to fident that the meetings in Cairo and Algiers would welcome the Committee on behalf of the Government yield similar fruitful and valuable results. and people of the United Arab Republic. He expressed 301. Members would leave Addis Ababa with very his country's gratitude for the decision to meet in happy memories of their stay, and invigorated and Cairo and appreciation of the Committee's construc­ inspired by the work being done both in the develop­ tive new practice of holding meetings close to Ter­ ment of the great capital and by the OAU. ritories still under colonialism in Africa and the Arabian 302. The representative of the Secretary-General, Peninsula. on behalf of all members of the Secretatiat, expressed 308. The ending of all forms of colonialism was deep gratitude to His Imperial Majesty and the Gov­ vital to the maintenance of international peace. The ernment of Ethiopia for all the facilities placed nt their United Arab Republic therefore appreciated the Com­ disposal and for the generous hospitality extended to mittee's noble and essential efforts, which had helped them. Special thanks were due to Mr. Mekasl1a, and to raise the morale of peoples subjected to colonialism his colleague Mr. Deressa, for their assistance and per­ and given them fresh hope of freedom amidst the con­ sonal kindness, as well as to the officials of the OAU tinuing acts of oppression. Those efforts had also con­ and the Economic Commission for Africa for their solidated the struggle of oppressed peoples to attain co-operation. their right to self-determination, develop their political 303. The representative of Ethiopia said that his systems and exploit their economic resources in order Government was grateful to the Special Committee for to reach a dignified standard of human prosperity in having accepted its invitation, and strongly believed complete freedom from discrimination. that its visit had greatly advanced the cause for which 309. The Declaration on the Granting of Inde­ it had been established. The resolutions it had adopted pendence to Colonial Countries and Peoples represented had undoubtedly brought encouragement to the many a landmark in the history of the international Orga­ people all over the world still struggling to win free­ nization and a most constructive step forward. More­ dom and independence, and the petitioners had been over, the efforts of the Committee had considerably left with no doubt as to where the sympathies of the contributed to forming a trend of world public opinion Committee lay. Those were no mean ac:hievements. hostile to colonialism. That trend had reinforced the 304. Colonialism was a scourge that continued to will to struggle and sharpened the awareness of peoples bedevil humanity, and Ethiopia deplored the situation striving to recover their freedom. He wished to assure that had made the creation of the Committee an urgent the Committee of the determination of the Government necessity. The fact that even in the latter half of the and people of the United Arab Republic to continue twentieth century-a period that had witnessed a high to support peoples struggling against all forms of degree of practical human achievement-a large propor­ colonialism, tion of the family of man was suffering deprivation 310. His country had followed with great interest and indignity, was a sad commentary on civilization. and appreciation the Committee's deliberations in Dar His Government therefore looked forward to the day es Salaam, Mogadiscio and Addis Ababa, and had no when the Committee's existence v:as no longer neces­ doubt that the African peoples ,vould attain their sary, whe11 the nations would enjoy e(]ttally the fruits noble and legitimate objectives in Southern Rhodesia, of freedom and when the exploitation of man by man Angola, Mozambique and other African Territories would be a thing of the past. The fact that the achieve­ still under the yoke of colonialism. The United Arab ment of that aim might be a slow and frustrating Republic was equally convinced that the forces of process should serve as a challenge ,llld spur the Com­ colonialism and racialism would soon surrender in mittee into making ever greater efforts. the face of the great African struggl~ and tlie values 305. He hoped that members had enjoyed their stay it represented. Meanwhile colonial powers had to in Addis Ababa, and wished them success in their work recognize the force of the African national struggle in Cairo and Algiers. It would be his delegation's and the value, accomplishments and role of the African pleasant duty to convey their expressions of apprecia­ man. They also had to reckon \Vith the decisions of tion to His Imperial Majesty and the Government of the Organization of African Unity, which represented Ethiopia. both a framework and an instrument of the indeoendent African States for the attainment of the honourable D. MEETINGS HELD AT CAIRO, UNITED ARAB REPUBLIC objectives of freedom and construction throughout the Opening of meetings African continent. 311. The people of the t!nited Arab Republic Address by thP- 2vlinister for Foreign Affairs of the attached the greatest importance to the questions of United Arab Repitblic Aden and Oman, which the Committee was to discuss. 306. The Minister for Foreign Affairs of the United The question of Aden and the Aden Protectorates Arab Repitblic said that President had already passed the stage of mere adoption of had asked him to transmit his greetings to the Special resolutions. The challenge lay rather in taking the Committee and welcome it to the United Arab Republic. necessary action to carry out the United Nations and The President also conveyed his best wishes for the Special Committee resolutions; and it was the duty of fulfilment of the Committee's noble efforts to implement the United Kingdom Government to abide by and the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to fully implement those resolutions, as well as to embark Colonial Countries and Peoples and to end colonialism upon a policy of co-operation with the Special Com­ in the world. The President was confident that mem- mittee for that purpose. Addendum to agenda item 23 65 312. He was confident that the Committee fully poverty in the area. Imperialism also constituted a realized the extent of the aggression and armed inter­ threat to th'! security of tbi:: region and to the peace vention to which the people of Oman had been of the world. It must be borne in mind, at the present subjected. The General Assembly had already taken juncture, that imperialism had been liquidated in all positive steps at its twentieth session, when it had Asian countries and only remained in the Arab area. recognized the legitimate right of the pt:ople of Oman to It was high time for imperialism to depart from self-determination and the withdrawal of foreign forces other Afi ican States. Cloaked in new shapes, im­ from their territory. He was also confident that the perialism desperately tried to resume its former power, Committee, in fulfilling its United Nations mandate but its attempts were doomed to failure for they to examine the cause of the struggling people of struck deep at the nature of the evolution of life and Oman, would take the decisions and steps necessary the maturity of the human conscience. for putting an end to armed aggression against the 318. It might not be out of place, in that connexion, pecple of Oman and enabling them to recover true to recall what had been taking place in the Arab areas sovereignty and enjoy their inherent right to develop­ 140 years ago, when British imperialism aligned itself ment and progress. with backwardness against the Arab people ; or to 313. The people of the United Arab Republic stood recall the protracted nationalist struggle throughout with all Arab and African peoples in watching the that dark age, which reached a decisive stage with work of the Special Committee with great hopes and the inception of the Liberation Front, its sa(.ted war expectations. Its meetings in Cairo and other Afrka~1 against imperialist aggression and the historic feats capitals would surely be crowned with success, thereby of heroism it achieved in the last four years ; or of crystallizing its noble and vital task of ending colonial­ imperialist machinations to subvert those movements. ism. The most outstanding example of such machinations had taken place in 1959, when the United Kingdom Add1·ess by the Acting Secretary-General r.,f the League had embarked upon the foundation of the so-called of Arab States "Federation of South Arabia", its puppet and the 314. The Acdng Secretary-General of the League medium for exercising it-:- imperialist powers in the of Arab States welcomed the Special Committee to Occup:<'d South. That wa~ exemplified again by the the 's headquarters on behalf of the subversive conferences of the United Kingdom, which League of Arab States and thanked i~ for inviting that country falsely calJed constitutional. The next con­ the League to attend as an observer the meeting of ference of that kind would take place in August 1966 that body, which reflected the noble a,ms of the between the United Kingdom on the one hand and United Nations for the liquidation of imperialism and its puppet in the area on the other. In reality that the liberation of humanity from imperialistic aims and will mean a conference between the United Kingdom dangers. and itself. 315. That same aim was also the corner-stone on 319. Attention should also be drawn to the acts of which the Arab League was founded and for the intimidation and tyranny in i\Iuscat, Oman and the realization of which it had worked during the whole of Gulf. Those acts had been exposed and publicized its twenty-one years of existence. If the revival of thanks to the Special Committee, which had upheld unity was considered to be the ultimate goal of the liberty and would continue to uphold it during the Arab nation, then freedom could be regarded as the present discussion on the hvo questions. foundation of unity and at its core. That was why the 320. However, he ,vished to stress the fact that League of Arab States, and its members had struggled British imperialist danger in the Arabian peninsula for the cause of liberating the Arab nation. Victory was of the same nature, though it took on different for the cause of freedom in Libya, Tunisia, Morocco, forms. It threatened not only the Arabian Peninsula, Sudan, and Algeria had eventually been but also the whole Afro-Asian world. Imperialism achieved. Those countries had become full members would never be eradicated unless its bases were dis­ of the League of .Arab States and of the United mantled in the Arab area. Natiqns. 321. Only a week ago he had read the twenty­ 316. \Vith great faith and purpose, the League sixth pamphlet of the Adelphi Papers, entitled Sources and its members were now struggling against British of Conflict in the 11fiddlc East. There was nothing imperialism in the Arabian Peninsula. British im­ more significant and eloquent than that paper in perialism had imposed tyrannic rule over the Occupied revealing the United Kingdom's underlying objective South, Oman, Muscat and the Emirates of the Gulf, of imperialism in the Arabian Peninsula and in focus­ thus flagrantly disregarding the United Nations and ing light upon the bases from which aggression was violating its Charter and its principles and the resolu­ directed against the people. tions of both the General Assembly and of the Special 322. That document needed no comment; it would Committee. suffice to quote a few paragraphs from it. For ex­ 317. Imperialism was still clinging to outdated ample: measures reminiscent of the past two centuries and "Britain has bases for land, sea and air forces at was resorting to suppression, intimidation and annihila­ Aden and Bahrain, linked by a chain of four air tion. In so doing, imperialism disregarded the suffer­ st.· ;,,5 posts and supplemented by smaller landing ings, casualties and sacrifices of the people and ignored s:·· ,s in the South Arabian Federation and the the fact that that area of the Arab nation embodied Eastern Aden Protectorates. The bases support a one of the oldest civilizations of the world. The Arab mixed land force of infantry, armour and artillery, nation and the other free nations of the world would a small naval force of escorts, minesweepers and in no way agree to the presence of imperialism, which landing craft and an air element including inter­ . imposed its outrageous exploitation and tied the people ceptor-ground attack aircraft, reconnaissance bomb­ Lto its yuke, thus leading to large-scale jgnorance and ers, transport aircraft and a few helicopters. Britain 66 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexe• is formally bound to defend the South Arabian South Arabia and to indicate the stand taken by the Federation (including Aden) as well as the Pro­ League of Arab States on those issues. tectorates which remain outside the Federation. In the Persian Gulf area, Britain is also formally bound 328. In the cause of the Occupied South, the Arab to defend Bahrain against attack from within the League, during its first seventeen years of existence, Gulf, to defend Qatar against attack by sea, to had resorted to every diplomatic means at its disposal defend the Trucial State of Fuj airah against any to deal with British imperialism, but all its attempts aggression. . . . In addition to these formal commit­ had been in vain. The result was more aggression and ments, Britain considers itself, and is widely con­ repression on the part of imperialism. In 1962 the sidered, to have a general moral commitment to liberation movement of the Occupied South had ini­ defend all those States in the Gulf for whose inter­ tiated a new stage of action, both through an effective national relations the British G,:,vernment remains nationalist struggle and through the United Nations. responsible. The main routes by which Britain During the last four years the Arab countries, through communicates with and reinforces the bases in the its organs-the League's Councils, Heads of Govern­ area are by :;ea through the Suez Canal or by air ment and meetings of Heads of State--had pursued over Turkey and I ran to Bahrain. Both routes are the following policies : also important in sustaining the British military They had striven against British imperialism in the presence in the Indian Ocean area and South-East Arabian Peninsula by every means at their disposal Asia." 3 in order to eradicate imperialism and to consolidate 323. The document contained accounts indicating the liberation movement in the Occupied South and a rapprochement between the t. 1 .1ited States and the Oma11. They 1-..~d also given active aid to th.:.i Arabian United Kingdom concerning that imperialist military Gulf to enable it to achieve liberation and advance­ plan. Reference was also made to the Western strategic ment. belt, which aimed at the containment of the Soviet They had implemented the resolutions of the Special Union and the countries parties to the Warsaw Pact, Committee and of the United Nations General thus forming a defensive-offensive force to face Soviet Assembly, and in particular the resolutions adopted expansion. The document went on to say: by the General Assembly on 5 November 1965, ''British bases and commitments in southern Arabia regarding the Occupied South, and on 17 December and the Persian Gulf ... [help to promote Western 1965 regarding Oman. influence in the and to deter any local They had taken a firm stand against the British con­ belligerence .... They] help to keep open a strategic ferences and imperialist manreuvres which, in a bid route to British positions in the Indian Ocean and to safeguard continued imperialistic presence in a South-East Asia, and may thus be said to contribute new form, sought to establish puppet regimes whicb to the containment of any advance by a communist were not the product of the free will of the people Povver into those areas. But their primary purpose of the area. Those attempts and manreuvres had is a more local one: to safeguard the flow of Middle been condemned by the United Nations. East oil, to prevent or check conflict in their own immediate area and to provide a base for British They had united the efforts of the nationalists in one military intervention in other areas close at hand." 4 organization so as to close their ranks against im­ perialists, which tried to sow the seeds of discord 324. The document also mentioned the danger among them. originating from and its power, and uncovered imperialistic plots against the emerging 329. The Nationalist Liberation Movement had Ara} 1 countries in the area. Imperialism feared that recently gained impetus. Cm 3 March 1966, the Na­ force, which • : nstituted a threat to its aggressive tionalist Front and the Liberation Organization were aspirations. merged to form a single body : the Front for the 325. The documem then stated, in a manner remi­ Liberation of Occupied South Yemen (FLOSY). The niscent of the fossilized imperialist mentality, that agreement had been ratified on the same day by the Curzon's Declaration of 1903, which stipulated that Yemen Occupied South Commission of the Arab "The peace of these waters must be maintained . . . League and by the L~ague's Council during the same and the influence of the British Government must month. remain supreme", still held good in 1966 so far as 330. The League of Arab States staunchly believed the Occupied South and the Gulf were concerned, that the Committee would condemn the current attempt thus completely disregarding twentieth century develop­ by the United Kingdom to hold negotiations with the ments. Federation Government, its tool. It was taking pains 326. He hegged indulgence for his lengthy quota­ to involve the United Nations in its aggressive attempts tions, for he regarded them as unequivocal evidence and taking steps to hold a conference next August which uncov~ring the latest Brii-•,;h machinations directed would be a replica of former conferences, which were against the liberation movement of the Occupied South, doomed to failure. It also refused to implement the and evidence of the unyielding British attitude in United Nations resolutions. The United Kingdom Muscat, Oman and the Gulf Emirates. Those state­ should therefore be faced with a decisive confronta­ ments showed the far-reaching effects of the battle and tion. The nationalist struggle inside the Territory revealed the truth sought after by the Committee. was escalating and becoming more ferocious. 327. He also wished to disclose three main parallel 331. But the United Kingdom was persisting in its aspects of the same imperialist policy followed in negotiations and preparations, and was adamant in its insistence on more sacrifices and bloodshed. That ' 3 The Institute for Strategic Studies, Sources of Conflict was incontestable evidence that current British negotia­ in the Middle East, Adelphi Paper No. 26 (March 1966), pp. 26 and 27. tions were far removed from the aspirations of the 4 Ibid., pp. 27 and 28. people of the area, whose belief in freedom was becom- Addendum to agenda item 23 67 ing stauncher and who were more determined to gain capital of the Qatar Emirate, on 24 June 1965, they victory than ever before. were prevented, by sheer force, from continuing their 332. With regard to the Omani cause, on 17 Decem­ journey, and were obliged to return to Kuwait on the ber 1965 the United Nations General Assembly had same day. There followed the detention of Sheikh upheld the natural right of the Omani people to libera­ Sakr Ibn Sultan, the ruler of Sharjah Emirate, and tion from British imperialists, and to independence his banishment to Kuwait. Identical cablP-s were sent and self-determination; it had further condemned the to the Secretary-General of the League signed by the United Kingdom for refusing to co-operate with the other rulers informing him that they had withdrawn Special Committee on Oman, and called for the with­ from their previous agreements. That incident thus drawal of British forces from Oman, and for the demonstrated one of the heinous methods of imperialist abolition of British supremacy in all its forms, without despotism. restrictions on liberties and with legal rights for the 339. These brief references to British imperialism people. in the Occupied South, Omani Imamate and the Gulf 333. But since 1955 the occupying forces of the Emirates clearly demonstrated imperialist planning, United Kingdom persisted in defending their presence which constituted a threat to the security of the whole and were still defying the resolutions of the United area and showed the untruthfulness of recent declara­ Nv.tions and the natural rights of the Arab people tions by the United Kingdom. of Oman. The Arab League was confident that the 340. At that time, the United Kingdom had declared Special Committee would uphold the Omani people's its willingness to put into effect projects for construc­ right to liberty and independence in a new and effective tion in the area, but after a year it was still indifferent way. to those projects. The Arabs, however, had learnt, in 334. The Gulf Emirates were also fettered by their protracted struggle for freedom, not to listen to British imperialism, which impeded their progress and any imperialist promises, for they were mere lies. deprived them of prosperity. Imperialism further im­ Imperialism would presumably never allow progress, posed its internal and external guardianship without its deadly foe, to replace backwardness, its pliant ally. any basis in international law. This, in fact, was the most heinous form of i~perialism, whose liquidation 341. The United Kingdom Government had an­ was the primary aim of the Special Committee. nounced its determination to evacuate the Occupied South by 1968, but had simultaneously engaged in 335. In compliance with the League's Pact, which negotiations under a non-constitutional system con­ called for "co-operation with the Arab countries non­ demned by the United Nations, and was disregarding members of the League's Council in a bid to achieve the true representatives of the people. It had just prosperity and safeguard their future", the League concluded a new secret agreement with the ruler of Council on 31 March 1964 had adopted a resolution Bahrain. That agreement aimed at enlarging the mili­ in which it decided to send a mission headed by the tary base in Bahrain and equipping it with large Secretary-General of the League, and whose members quantities of offensive arms. It had been further re­ ,vere personal representatives of the Heads of Arab ported that the United Kingdom Foreign Office was States which are immediate neighbours of the Gulf taking the utmost pains to keep that agreement con­ Emirates. The aim of that mission was to conclude an fidential, fearing as it did the pressure which the Arab agreement with the Emirs on methods of achieving nationalists might exert upon the Bahrain Government brotherly co-operation with that area, and to offer to annul its co-operation with the United Kingdom. economic and technical aid. 336. The mission had departed in October 1964 and 342. That situation aroused grave concern. One was followed by a mission of technicians. Agreements reason was that the United Kingdom was persisting were concluded with the rulers of the Emirates con­ in its outdated imperialist schemes, and paying no cerning projects for paving roads, agriculture, water, heed to the fact that it was in the second half of the electricity and hygiene, to be financed and implemented twentieth century. Another reason was that the Oc­ by the League. The League earmarked the necessary cupied South revolutionaries were continuing their funds- and transferred the balance to the Dobai banks heroic struggle for the liberation of their country and before beginning the work. the Omani people were engaging in hostilities. Na­ tionalist resistance had spread from the Imamate of 337. Since 1964, the United Kingdom had been Oman to the internal areas of Muscat. The present indifferent to the League's projects aiming to revive situation indicated that an explosion was imminent the area, but once it realized the effectiveness of Arab especially after the deposition of Sharjah Emir, and the aid and the willingness of the rulers and people to United Kingdom's persistence in rejecting the League's accept it, that country had einharked upon a policy support for rehabilitation projects. of pressure and conspirac1·. It was then decided that the Secretary-General of the League should visit the 343. Intimidation activities had escalated in the area Emirates to obtain ratification of the Arab projects and an agreement concerning an aggressive military from the rulers. A few hours after his arrival on 10 base in Bahrain had been concluded. May 1965, he received the necessary documents. The 344. The Arab nation and free peoples everywhere rulers, especially those of Sharjah and Ras El Khaima, looked to the Committee's historic meeting in Cairo, because of their prestige, were then intimidated and a city which had scored historic victories against the threatened with deposition, unless they withdrew their aggressive forces of colonialism and neo-colonialism ; agreement to co-operate with the League. All of them for Cairo was the bulwark of the struggle for free­ refused to submit to such threats. dom. Everybody remembered with gratitude its pains­ 338. On 22 June 1965, a mission of Arab experts taking efforts fo meet freedom fighters in their home­ left for Dubai to begin work there. It was then that lands. People would always remember the praiseworthy British imperialism revealed its odious and outdated stands taken by the Committee on the causes of justice methods. When the experts arrived in Doha, the and liberty, and had unswerving faith that it would 68 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexes take a decisive stand in support of the Arab liberation mittee to hold some of its meetings in the capital of the causes. new Arab State which was in the vanguard of the struggle against imperialism, colonialism and neo­ General statements colonialism and for the freedom and independence of all 345. The Chairman, speaking on behalf of the the oppressed peoples of Africa, Asia, Latin America Special Committee, thanked the Foreign Minister of and the rest of the world. On behalf of the USSR the United Arab Republic for his inspiring address and delegation, he expressed his deep appreciation to His for the stirring and remarkable message he had com­ Excellency Gamal Abdel Nasser, President of the municated from President Gamal Abdel Nasser. The United Arab Republic, and to the Government and Foreign Minister had set out important elements which people of that country, which had close ties of friend­ would assist the Committee in its work in Cairo. ship with the Soviet people. Relations between the two countries and peoples were based on their common 346. The Committee's gratitude went out to the struggle for peace, social progress and socialism. The Government of the United Arab Republic for inviting Government of the United Arab Republic had given it to hold some of its meetings in Cairo and for extend­ the Special Committee an opportunity to make an ing to it hospitality and fine facilities. on-the-spot inquiry into the fundamental problems of 347. The position of the Government of the United the peoples of Arabia fighting against colonial regimes Arab Republic in the vanguard of the struggle for and to hear the representatives of nationalist and the liberation of colonial peoples, its devotion to the patriotic organizations of Aden and Oman and of all cause of peace, its dedication to the aims embodied those engaged in the struggle to liberate those ter­ in the United Nations Charter, and its constructive ritories. It had also provided an opportunity for the contribution to the work of the Committee, repre­ Committee to work out agreed solutions which would sented an inspiration and a stimulus at the outset of facilitate the rapid implementation of the Declaration the Committee's work in Cairo. on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Coun­ 348. The Chairman also thanked the observer for tries and Peoples as well as many other resolutions the League of Arab States for ~is statemen~. The sp~cial adopted by the General Assembly on the questions of relationship of the League with the Umted Nations Aden and Oman. and its contribution to the Special Committee's aims 353. Although five years had passed since the adop­ and aspirations made it 01 particular importan~e, ~1:d tion of the Declaration, millions of human beings, due attention would be given to the pomts raised m for the most part in Africa and East Arabia, were the Committee's deliberations in Cairo. · still held in chains under colonial rule, being brutally 349. It was appropriate that the Committee shot3:ld exploited, subjected to every kind of humiliation, be taking up the matters of Aden and Oman while deprived of their human dignity, persecuted and mur­ in Cairo. Developments concerning Aden had reached dered, solely because they refused to remain slaves. a crucial stage. Fully appreciating the importance The conscience of mankind could not ignore the crimes attached to the matter by all Arab peoples, he gave of the colonialists. Ways must be found to eradicate an assurance that the Committee would spare no the last traces of colonialism and its aftermath, apart­ effort to make the contribution expected of it by those heid and racism. Although mortally wounded, colonial­ peoples and by all freedom-loving peoples everywhere. ism refused to die. It was defending itself fiercely. As the representati:7e ~f a country which had suffere,d For some time now, in some parts of the world, under colonial domination, he pledged the Committee s colonialist and imperialist forces had been attempting unflagging determination to secure the full and earliest to organize counter-attacks against national liberation possible application of the pertinent General Asse1'r!bly movements and to undermine the sovereignty of a and Special Committee resolutions. In that connexion, number of newly independent young States. he extended a warm welcome to the Special Representa­ tive of the Secretary-General on Aden, Mr. Omar A. 354. The ruling circles in the United States were H. Adeel, who was present and would take his seat interfering in the internal affairs of other States and when the matter of Aden was considered. waging an aggressive war against the people of Viet­ N am. The British colonialists were sending punitive 350. With regard to the question of Oman the expeditions against the peoples of South Arabia, Aden Cc. .nmittee would, with equal determination, en­ and Oman. Their Portuguese henchmen were pouring deavour to make an effective contribution towards fresh troops into Angola, Moz~mbique and S?-call<;d ensuring for the people of Oman the exercise of their Portuguese Guinea to extermmate the patriots m inalienable right to self-determination and independence these Territories. The Verwoerd regime made no in accordance with their freely expressed wishes. In attempt to conceal its intention of annexing . South that task the Committee would of course be guided vVest Africa. Ian Smith's unilateral declaration of by General Assembly resolution 2023 (XX) of 17 independence was an act of defiance directed not only December 1965. against 4 million inhabitants of Zimbabwe, but against 351. He concluded by renewing his thanks to the all of peace-loving Africa. Foreign Minister for his address and, through him, 355. The criminal plans of Ian Smith, Verwoerd to the Government of the United Arab Republic for and Salazar, aimed at keeping racist and colo~ialist enabling the Committee _to me.et_ in Cairo .. He al~o regimes in power, could never have succeeded without wished, through the Foreign Mm1ster, to reiterate ~is the military, economic and political support of a number gratitude to President Gamal Abdel N ass~r for the m­ of States members of NATO, foremost among them spiring message he had that day communicated to the the United States and the Federal Republic of Ger­ Committee. many. The international situation made it imperative 352. The representative of the Union of Soviet ~o­ for all forces fighting imperialism, colonialism and cialist Republics thanked the Government of the Umted neo-colonialism to unite. South Arabia was one of the Arab Republic for its invitation to the Special Com- last bulwarks of British and international imperialism. Addendum to agenda item 23 69 It was being used as a major base, which threatened dependence. For many years, the Soviet TTnion has the peace and the security of the peoples of East been pursuing a policy of active support fo:r peoples Arabia. fighting for their national independence, for the per­ 356. The imperialist monopolies, particularly the manent liquidation of capitalism and for the strengthen­ United States and British monopolies, had taken ing of peace. You can be sure that we shall continue possession of the principal resource of South Arabia, to pursue that policy." oil. The interests of the oil monopolies were carefully 361. The joint communique on the talks between protected by land, sea and air forces which threatened the leaders of the Soviet Union and the United Arab the security not only of the people of the area but of Republic setting forth the position of the signatories the entire Arab world. During the , the on colonial questions stated that they condemned the Aden and Bahrain bases had served as a spring-board policy of oppression of the colonial Power in Aden for the air attacks on . Now, by repeated military and South Arabia. They affirmed that they were provocations, the same bases were threatening the prepared fully to support the heroic struggle of the young Arab States. They were being used to combat Arab peoples for their freedom and genuine self­ the national liberation movements in South Arabia and determination. They appealed to the United Kingdom to punish the Arab peoples which had taken up arms Government to implement the decisions of the United to fight for freedom. British airplanes took off from Nations General Assembly and pledgeti. their support those bases to bomb the villages of South Arabili!,. to the people of Oman in its fight against colonialism. British soldiers launched what amounted to colonial 362. The USSR delegation expressed confidence that expeditions against the patriots of the region and during its meetings in Cairo, the Special Committee hunted down the Aden freedom fighters. The United would adopt decisions aimed at supporting the libera­ Kingdom still had a network of military bases in the tion forces of South Arabia and expediting the liquida­ Near and Middle East. In the area of Aden and the tion of colonial regimes in that part of the world. The Gulf, it maintained large contingents of troops which Organization of African Unity and the League of were used both to suppress national liberation move­ Arab States had an important part to play in the over­ ments in South Arabia and to exert pressure on the throw of these regimes in Africa and East Arabia. independent States of East Arabia. In previous years, the United Nations, the Organiza­ 357. On the subject of the importance attributed tion of African Unity and the League of Arab States by imperialism to maintaining military bases in that had managed to co-ordinate their activities more and part of the world, Mr. Julian Amery, former Minister more efficiently. His delegation welcomed that co­ for Air of the last British Conservative Government operation and expressed the hope that the representa­ had recently written that the facts irrefutably proved tives of the Arab League would work with the Special that the military presence of the United Kingdom Committee in an effort to resolve the problems to be east of Suez had considerably helped and was still discussed in Cairo. helping to protect its interests against the hostile local 363. On behalf of his delegation, he extended to elements. The statement was wholly without guile: the the people of the United Arab Republic his best "hostile local elements" were none other than the wishes for their complete success in building a new peoples of Asia and Africa and the peoples of South life of happiness and prosperity. Arabia, which were resisting British rule and opposing 364. The representative of Venezuela said that he any interference in their internal affairs. The "east of was pleased to have an opi)ortunity, for the first time Suez" policy amounted to a sustained effort to protect in four years, to pay a tribute to the United Arab imperialist interests. It was contrary to the interests Jiepublic for its co-operation with the Special Com­ of the peoples of Asia and Africa and aimed at mittee. At the previous session, he had conveyed his strengthening the colonial rule of British imperialism thanks to the United Arab Republic in his capacity as in the southern part of the Arabian Peninsula. a member of the Sub-Committee on Aden. Now, it 358. However,· the monstrous and barbarous was on behalf of the delegations of Chile, Uruguay methods used by imperialism and colonialism to stifle and Venezuela that he thanked the people and Govern­ the l~gitimate aspirations of the peoples to freedom and ment of the United Arab Republic for the kind in­ independence were doomed to failure. Despite local vitation to the Special Committee to hold some of its frustrations and temporary defeats, the liberation forces African meetings in Cairo. The warm welcome the were steadily increasing in number and their equip­ United Arab Republic had given the members of the ment was improving. The last vestiges of colonialism Special Committee had once again demonstrated its would be unable to withstand an attack by those forces: readiness to fight against colonialism and showed that he could state that with certainty, because all States it had taken an unequivocal stand in favour of United and peoples which loved freedom, peace and progress Nations action in that struggle. were giving increasingly active support to the freedom 365. The Venezuelan delegation fully appreciated fighters. the valuable assistance given the Special Committee 359. The position of the Soviet Union on the ques­ by the United Arab Republic and thanked its Govern­ tion was well known: in order to help to liquidate ment for having enabled the Committee members to colonial regimes as rapidly as possible, it had provided have direct contact with the reality of colonialism in and would continue to provide assistance to the peoples that part of the world. He was confident that the which were waging a heroic struggle against colonial experience gained during the Cairo meetings would be oppression. very valuable and would help the Committee to com­ 360. During his recent visit to the United Arab plete its task successfully and thus to carry out the Republic, Mr. Kosygin, Chairman of the Council of instructions of. the General Assembly. Ministers of the USSR, had said : "Our State and 366. The representative of Iraq expressed his delega­ the whole Soviet people are providing decisive sup­ tion's profound appreciation and gratitude for the port for all those fighting for tueir freedom and in- invitation extended to the Special Committee by a 70 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexes sister Arab country to hold some of its meetings in capital of the United Arab Republic had already given Cairo. Coming to Cairo was, for Arabs and Africans the Committee members an idea of the enthusiasm alike, something in the nature of a long-cherished and optimism with which the people of the United pilgrimage. Arab Republic were building their State under the 367. The same banks of the Nile had seen the leadership of their Government. Their economic flowering of a great Arab and Islamic civilization that achievements and improved level of living were a source had spread light and justice throughout that part of of inspiration and an example for all peoples which the world. Since the great revolution of 23 July 1952 had severed the chains of colonialism. The Bulgarian the United Arab Republic had come to represent, fot delegation fully agreed with the Minister for Foreign Arabs and Africans, the pulsating heart of Arab and Affairs of the United Arab Republic that the Com­ African unity, the defiant stand against colonialism mittee's work would assume special importance during and its offshoot, international , the rallying its stay in Cairo. The Committee was to define the point in the struggle against all foreign domination ways and means of ensuring the speedy implementation and oppression, and a refuge for freedom fighters i.om of the provisions of resolution 1514 (XV) and the all over the world. resolutions on Oman and the Aden Protectorates 368. In 1954, President Nasser had written in his adopted by the General Assembly at its last session. Philosophy of the R,·1;ohition that it was not in vain Its further task was to frustrate the attempts of the that his country lay to the south-west of Asia close to United Kingdom to maintain its military bases in the Arab world, whose life was intermingled with that South Arabia with the help of reactionary and corrupt of the United Arab Republic; neither was it in vain elements and puppet governments and prevent it from that his country lay to the north-east of Africa, a continuing to enslave the peoples of those territories. position from which it overlooked the African con­ 373. Guided by the anti-imperialist policy of its tinent, wherein was raging the most violent struggle Government, the Bulgarian delegation could assure the between white colonizers and the black indigenous representatives of the Government of the United Arab inhabitants for the possession of its inexhaustible Republic that it would assist the Special Committee in resources. every way in its efforts to liberate the peoples of South 369. Indeed, thP United Arab Republic had played, Arabia. To the people of the United Arab Republic, and continued to play, a leading role in the struggle with which the Bulgarian people had close ties of against Zionist colonialism and its forcible occupation friendship and co-operation which had been reaffirmed of a very dear part of the Arab homeland as well as by the recent visit of the Chairman of the Council in the general fight against all forms of colonialism of Bulgaria to Cairo, it extended its most sincere every,v here. wishes for continued success in building its independent and sovereign republic. 370. He felt confident that the Committee's delibera­ tions in Cairo would be as successful, constructive and 374. The representative of Ethiopia wished to as­ fruitful as those held previously in other African sociate his delegation with the expressions of thanks capitals. and appreciation already voiced for the welcome and hospitality extended to the Special Committee by the 371. The representative of Bulgaria also expressed G?vernment and people of the United Arab Republic. his delegation's appreciation to His Excellency Gamal His country had grown accustomed to that hospitality Abdel Nasser, President of the United Arab Republic, throughout the long history of common ties between and to the people and Government of the United the peoples of Egypt and Ethiopia. The historical, Arab Republic for inviting the Special Committee to cultural and geographical links existing between the meet in Cairo and for the warm welcome extended to two sister countries were so strong as to reduce the the members. The results of the Committee's present physical distance between them to insignificance. The session in Africa, since it was already possible to Ethiopian delegation therefore felt very much at home speak of results, had shown how much the Committee in the great and ancient city of Cairo. owed to the United Arab Republic and the other countries which had invited it to hold meetings in their 375. It was fitting that the Special Committee should respective capitals. The United Arab Republic's hos­ take up the question of Aden and Oman while in pitality was not fortuitous. It was in line with the over­ Cairo ; for the people of the United Arab Republic all policy of the United Arab Republic on colonial had long suffered under ruthless colonialists and im­ questions. The United Arab Republic was in the perialists, and rightly expected from the Committee forefront of the African countries and the States the support and assistance due to them as a people Members of the 'Cnited Nations which consistently still struggling to win freedom, independence and supported the struggle against colonialism and im­ human dignity. perialism. Its contribution to the fight against im­ 376. As a neighbour of Aden and South Arabia as perialism and the help it gave to national liberation a whole, Ethiopia had been keeping a close and sympa­ movements in Africa, the Near East, South Arabia thetic ,vatch on the struggle that the gallant people of and all other areas of the world where vestiges of those Territories were waging for freedom, democracy colonialism still existed were of the greatest significance. and social justice. He therefore wished to assure the The statement of His Excellency El Sayed Mahmoud people of Aden of the sympathy of his delegation and Riad, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the United its full support for any measure designed to ensure the Arah Republic, was further evidence of that fact. rapid transition of Aden from its present colonial 372. The Bulgarian delegation, which represented status to complete freedom and unfettered independence. a people friendly to the United Arab Republic, was 377. History testified to the fact that Ethiopia had gratified to be able to see for itself that the United always stood by the side of the Arab world in times Arab Republic with its age-old culture and civiliza­ of difficulty. It was therefore only natural for the tion, was forging ahead towards a free and independent Ethiopian Government and people to support the existence. Imleed, the few hours spent in the beautiful aspirations of the struggling peoples in the remaining Addendum to agenda item 23 71 pockets of colonialism and imperialism in the Arab his visit to the United Arab Republic in November world. He warned the United Kingdom that it was 1965. The Polish representative wished to take the high time for it to cease oppression and make the opportunity of conveying to the Government and people necessary preparations for a speedy and complete with­ of the United Arab Republic Poland's warm wishes drawal from the area in question. for further success in their noble endeavours in the 378. He concluded by extending his thanks to the cause of peace, progress and a bright and prosperous President, Government and people of the United Arab future. Thanks were also due to the Foreign Minister Reptt blic for inviting the Special Committee to their of the United Arab Republic for his important and country and expressed the hope that its meetings in inspiring address, which was but a further testimony Cairo would contribute to the complete eradication of the determination of the ho:1t country to assist the of colonialism in the Arab world and elsewhere. United Nations in its efforts to uproot colonialism 379. The representative of Iran expressed his everywhere. He abo wished to express his delegation's delegation's gratitude to the President, Government and gratitude to the Arab League for the facilities extended people of the United Arab Republic for their invita­ to the Committee. tion to the Special Committee to hold some of its 384. The Polish delegation supported the just and meetings in Cairo. It was a special pleasure for the legitimate struggle of the people of Aden and of South Iranian delegation to be amongst a people with whom Ara9ia. as a whole, and, in expressing his deep ap­ Iran shared immutable ties of friendship and common preciation to the Government and people of the United heritage. Those ties, dating back over two thousand Arab Republic for their invitation, reiterated its most years, had been reinforced by the present common aim cordial wishes for peace, progress and social justice. to uproot colonialism. 385. The representative of the United Republic of 380. His delegation had listened with great atten­ T anaania thanked the President, the Government and tion and interest to the highly important statement made the people of the United Arab Republic for their by the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the United welcome and expressed his appreciation of the state­ Arab Republic. The Iranian representative was con­ ment made on behalf of President Nasser by the vinced that that statement would greatly assist the Foreign Minister. He assured Mr. Riad that the Com­ Special Committee in its task. mittee would give full consideration to the President's 381. His delegation i•ould do everything within words of wisdom. its power to help all peoples languishing under colonial 386. Since the United Arab Republic had emerged subjugation to regain their freedom and independence. as a free State in 1952, its people, under the leader­ The Special Committee, to a greater extent th&.n ship of President Nasser, had consistently defended any other United Nations body, had been instrumental human rights, and particularly the right to political in strengthening the confidence of those peoples in the independence in countries still under the yoke of United Nations and had been able to gain a direct colonialism. The spirit of the United Arab Republic acquaintance with their wishes and aspirations. He was had been shown in its acts and not by words alone. convinced that the Committee would make a valuable It was well known that the United Arab Republic contribution to implementation of General Assembly supported the Liberation Committee of the OAU resolution 1514 (XV), containing the Declaration on whose headquarters were in Dar es Salaam. It had the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries striven, at great sacrifice, to free peoples exploited by and Peoples. fore_ign Powers. It had given up trading with South 382. He concluded by reiterating the thanks of his Africa, and had not hesitated to break off diplomatic delegation for the friendly welcome and the warmth relations with the United Kingdom because of the of feeling extended to the Committee. Southern Rhodesian question. 383. The representative of Poland expressed the 387. The work of the United Arab Republic for gratitude of the Polish delegation to the President, Africa was beyond praise, and he was happy that the Government and people of the United Arab Republic Special Committee could hold some of its meetings in for inviting the Special Committee to the capital of a Cairo, for the United Arab Republic was extending the country which had become a shining star in the firma­ struggle against colonialism to the Middle East, and ment of liberation struggles in the Arab world, as well Aden was of particular concern to it. The United as playing a leading role in liberation struggles else­ Kingdom had vested interests in those Territories where. He trusted that the presence of the Special and pretended that its presence enabled the indigenous Committee in Cairo would give hope and encourage­ peoples to make progress. It used that pretext to defy ment to the freedom fighters of Aden and the adjacent the United Nations resolutions. In that connexion he Territories which were still suffering humiliation, ex­ wished to pay a tribute to the many people who had ploitation and foreign domination under oppressive lost their lives in the struggle for the independence of and abhorrent colonial regimes. The United Arab their country. Republic ,vas making a most important contribution 388. Tanzania, like the United Arab Republic with towards the realization of the noble aims of progress, which it had long-standing ties of friendship, had peace and justice, and its dedicated efforts in the always fought against colonialism. He assured it of his cause of its own socialist development were admired by Government's strong support and of his conviction all its genuine friends. The economic, political and that with Committee's help the people of Aden would social changes in the United Arab Republic, set a attain their freedom. visible example to the world. Poland had many ties 389. The representative of Yugoslavia thanked the of friendly co-operation with the United Arab Republic, Foreign Minister and the President for their messages and both countries had a common approach to world of welcome. ];le was particularly happy to be in the problems. Poland cherished those relations and vividly United Arab Republic. Cairo was a most appropriate recalled the warm welcome extended to its Chairman meeting place for the Committee. It was well known of the Council of State, Mr. Edward Ochab, during that the United Arab Republic had played an outstand- 72 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexes ing role in the process of decolonization and in freeing ---colonialism and imperialism. Both phenomena were Africa, and had indeed served as an outstanding ex­ destined to disappear because all peoples would ul­ ample to other countries. timately gain their freedom; as the Administrative 390. His own country had many ties of friendship Secretary-General of the OAU had said, it was only and co-operation with the United Arab Republic. Both a matter of time and methods. were interested in maintaining international peace and 398. The very fact that the United Arab Republic security, in eradicating all forms of foreign domination had invited the Special Committee to hold part of its and in the improvement of international relations on session in Cairo indicated that country's interest in the basis of non-interference. Those ties had recently the problems of decolonization. been reaffirmed by the seventeenth meeting between 399. He was pleased to have an opportunity in Presidents Tito and Nasser. His delegation was certain Cairo to hear the true representatives of Aden and that the Committee's work in Cairo would be success­ Oman speak on behalf of their peoples about the in­ ful. humane and intolerable conduct of the United Kingdom 391. The representative of Syria felt that no expres­ in those Territories. The United Kingdom Government sion of homage and thanks could do justice to the must implement the relevant resolutions of the Special President, Government and valiant people of the United Committee and the General Assembly on Aden and Arab Republic. Hospitality had deep roots in that the Aden Protectorates. The people of Oman, in country and was indeed a matter of everyday life. particular, had the same right as others to exercise Colonialism had met with its most humiliating defeats self-determination and achieve independence in cir­ in the United Arab Republic, whose stand against cumstances of their own choosing. oppression was not a matter of politics but rather a 400. In conclusion he expressed appreciation to the profession of faith. Its defence of subjugated peoples valiant people of the United Arab Republic for their was a sacred duty, not a mere question of choice. The efforts to combat the reactionary forces of colonialism United Arab Republic gave support to the cause of and the reprehensible regimes of Verwoerd, Salazar emancipation and justice regardless of race, and was and Ian Smith, and he extended to their leaders and determined to liquidate the last bastions of colonialism to President Gamal Abdel Nasser his best wishes for as well as the inhuman legacy left behind : under­ their happiness. development, poverty, disease, ignorance, division and degradation. As President Nasser himself had said, 401. The representative of Australia said that he . colonialism was a basic source of evil. If it were to be had been doubly touched by the warmth of the recep­ eradicated, the instruments that it used must also be tion given to the Special Committee in the historic city eradicated. of Cairo. Civilization was based on the learning, art 392. The United Arab Republic had become an and culture which grew up in that city when the rest outstanding example of progress, and Cairo had be­ of the world was still at the barbarian stage. On behalf come the meeting place of progressive forces in the of his delegation he extended his sincerest thanks to Arab world and elsewhere, co-ordinated by the United the Government and people of the United Arab Arab Republic. Republic and his deepest respects to the great Arab people who were playing such an important role in 393. The aims of the United Arab Republic were the modern world. His delegation appreciated the those of the Special Committee. President Nasser's message of President Nasser and would faithfully message would be a source of inspiration to the Com­ convey it to the Australian Government; it would be mittee, as the Chairman had pointed out: the present grateful if the Foreign Minister could convey its age was too enlightened to be deceived by the puppet respectful thanks to the President. regimes erected by colonialism to perpetuate its ex­ ploitation of men and resources. 402. The representative of India said that his country was no stranger to the United Arab Republic. 394. On behalf of the Syrian Arab Republic and Links of many different kinds had existed between the its people ancl Government, he expressed his deep two countries for thousands of years. He had been gratitude, solidarity and unity of purpose with the struck by the splendour of Cairo and thought it only United Arab Republic, and wished that country every fit that the Special Committee should be meeting there. success in its noble endeavour in the cause of humanity, It was indeed a privilege for the Committee to meet as well as his sincere thanks to the Arab League for there, because of the noble aims of the United Arab the assistance given the Committee. Republic and also because of the friendly welcome of 395. The representative of Mali thanked the people its citizens. and Government of the United Arab Republic and 403. He recalled that, when the United Arab President Nasser for the kind invitation and warm Republic had suffered the Suez attack, his own country welcome extended to the Special Committee. had been one of the first to proffer support ; when 396. Since the sixth century, Mali and the United India had forced the Portuguese out of Goa, the Arab Republic had been linked by ethnic, historical United Arab Republic had given its help. His country and cultural ties. Although they had been separated by had also been the first to establish diplomatic rela­ colonialism for nearly three quarters of a century, tions with the Arab League. He thanked the Govern­ after their liberation they had found themselves more ment and people of the United Arab Republic for united than ever in the final struggle against old and their hospitality and the President for his kind message. new colonialism and against imperialism. 404. The representative of Denmark joined previous 397. Mali was observing with special attention the speakers in thanking the Special Committee's hosts. real pride the UAR's efforts to strengthen its in­ His delegation had particular pleasure in meeting in dependence and emerge from under-development. Every Cairo, the cradle of a great civilization from which success of the Egyptian peoples was a victory for Europe had received so much it1,spiration. The illus­ Mali, an African victory over the common enemies trious history of the United Arab R_epttblic was well Addendum to agenda item 23 73 known, but that history was also the background to traditions but also demonstrated a strong belief in the the present work of the country. It was fitting that Committee's work. the Committee should be meeting in Cairo, for the 414. He had been particularly gratified by the in­ United Arab Republic had for many years pursued spiring message received from President Nasser. He a policy of anti-colonialism. In that connexion his was sure that the Committee would give due considera­ delegation wished to thank President Nasser and Mr. tion to the words of wisdom it contained. Riad for their messages clearly outlining the problems 415. It was a particular source of joy to his delega­ to be discussed. tion to be in Cairo, for innumerable ties of friendship 405. His own country had friendly relations with existed between Afghanistan and the United Arab the United Arab Republic, and he hoped that country Republic, which had a common policy of non-alignment would continue to make progress towards a bright as well as a common religion. future of prosperity and peace. 416. The representative of the Ivory Coast as­ 406. The representative of Italy said that the visit sociated himself with previous speakers in thanking to Cairo had special significance for his delegation not the Government and people of the United Arab Re­ only because of the cordial relations of Italy with the public for their generous invitation to the Special United Arab Republic, but also because the two coun­ Committee and for their warm and fraternal welcome. tries' history was so closely linked. The invitation of 417. The invitation was all the more significant the United Arab Republic was a symbol of the con­ as the United Arab Republic itself was engaged in a fidence placed in the work of the Special Committee struggle to improve the lot of its people and cope with and in that of the United Nations by a country which the disastrous effects of under-development. That was so bravely engaged in building its future. He country was thus demonstrating once again its interest was grateful to the Government and people of the in the Special Committee's work and the im.l:'ortance United Arab Republic for that confidence, and ex­ it attached to the total eradication of colonialism from pressed his delegation's admiration for the achieve­ the world in general and from the South Arabian ments of the United Arab Republic together with its peninsula in particular. best wishes for the future. 407. The representativ<: of Madagascar wished to 418. The position of the Government of the Ivory express his most sincere appreciation to President Coast on colonial problems was well known. He would Gamal Abdel Nasser and to the Government and people only recall that it supported the self-determination bf of the United_ Arab Republic for inviting the Special peoples and the gradual and orderly transfer of all Committee to hold part of its session in the magnificent the attributes of sovereignty to the true representatives capital city of Cairo. of the countries still under foreign rule. Accordingly, he would spare no effort during the Special Committee's 408. He was confident that the Special Committee's work in Cairo to seek, together with other delegations, stay in the United Arab Republic would help it to solve ways and means enabling the Committee to carry the problems on its agenda. out the task assigned to it by the General Assembly. 409. He paid a tribute to the Government of the United Arab Republic for the warm welcome it had 419. He concluded by extending to the Government given the members of the Special Committee and for its and people of the United Arab Republic his best wishes generous hospitality. for their happiness and prosperity. 410. The representative of Tunisia thanked Presi­ 420. The representative of Sierra Leone thought it dent Nasser and the Government and people of the particularly fitting that the Special Committee should United Arab Republic for their kind invitation to the be able to meet in the United Arab Republic, for that Special Committee. He also paid a tribute to the country represented a geographical and cultural bridge Minister for Foreign Affairs of the United Arab between the Arab world of Africa and of Asia. Republic for his address, which would be a source of 421. It was particularly fitting that the Committee inspiration to the Special Committee in its efforts to should discuss in Cairo problems of interest both to frustrate the schemes of the colonial Powers. Africans and Asians, including the questions of Aden 411: It was not enough to condemn colonialism ; and Oman. Because of its own opposition to colonialism some way had to be found to render it harmless. The and neo-colonialism, his country shared the hope and Special Committee should draw the attention of world determination of the United Arab Republic to free opinion to that evil of the modern world so that every subjugated peoples from the yoke of colonialism. It means would be mobilized to eradicate it once and for would be the Committee's task to ensure that the all. United Kingdom implemented the United Nations 412. He would express his delegation's views con­ resolutions on Aden and Oman. cerning the situation in Aden and the Aden Protector­ 422. He thanked the President of the United Arab aces at a later stage. For the time being, he would Republic for his inspiring message. His delegation merely say that foreign influence in those Territories was convinced that the Comm;'tee's stay in Cairo could not be tolerated and that he would spare no would be both pleasant and fruitful. effort to see that the resolutions of the United Nations 423. The representative of the United States of were fully implemented there. America said that it was a particular pleasure for 413. The representative of Afghanistan associated her delegation to visit Cairo in response to the generous himself with the thanks expressed by other members invitation of the host country. The representative of of the Special Committee to the Government of the Iraq had said that to come to Cairo was a spiritual United Arab Republic for its generous invitation to privilege for Arabs ; but it also was a privilege for hold some of their meetings in the beautiful city of all the peoples of the civilized world. All the members Cairo on the sources of the great Nile. That hospitality of the Special Committee were inspired by awe and was not only in accordance with the country's fine respect for the continued accomplishments of the people 74 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexes of the Nile valley, which had begun before the dawn pitality during its short stay in Cairo. Their contribu­ of recorded history. tion to the cause of freedom and justice for all the 424. The United Arab Republic had a glorious oppressed peoples of the world was too well known to future now that the people of the country had taken require elaboration. It would suffice to say that whether their destiny into their own hands. Her own country within the Organization of African Unity, the non­ had long-standing friendly relations with the United aligned world or the United Nations, the United Arab Arab Republic and was especially happy that the Com­ Republic, under the dynamic leadership of its in­ mittee could be meeting in Cairo. defatigable and able President, Mr. Gamal Abdel Nasser, had always been the torch-bearer of freedom 425. She thanked the President and the Foreign in a world darkened by the forces of colonialism. Minister for their speeches of welcome and looked forward to the important deliberations of the Com­ 433. For that reason, the Spedal Committee con­ mittee in the beautiful and historic city of Cairo. She sidered it a special honour to have hcen invited by the was confident that the generosity of the Government Government of the United Arab Republic to hold its and people of the United Arab Republic would con­ meetings there. That could also be considered as a tribute to the success of the Committee',meetings in special recognition of the work of the Committee, that city. since Cairo had come to be considered as an important haven for all freedom-loving peoples the world over. 426. The representative of the United Arab Re­ In addition to the constructive contribution of the public wished to convey to the Chairman and members Government and people of the United Arab Republic of the Special Committee the very sincere thanks of to the work of the Committee, they had also found time his Government for the generous and elegant way in to lavish on it hospitality in true African and Arab which they had referred to his country. Those words tradition, for which it was very grateful. On behalf of were more than mere courtesy ; they represented an all the members of the Special Committee, he took encouragement to the Government of the United Arab special pride in extending their gratitude to the Govern­ Republic in its difficult path of non-alignment. His ment and people of the United Arab Republic for all Government had reserved for itself the right to judge the facilities they had offered. each world issue on its own merits, and that, he believed, was also the way of the United Nations. The 434. He also thanked the League of Arab States encouraging speeches made that morning would serve for having put its hall at the Special Committee's to strengthen his country's purpose on its lonely and disposal and for providing it with the necessary con­ difficult path. ference facilities. It was only proper that it should have 427. His Government was also happy that the discussed there the questions of Aden and Oman, Committee was meeting in Cairo. The United Nations since the League of Arab St~tes was the champion of represented the ideals and the dreams of mankind freedom and justice in the Arab world. and the Committee's presence in Cairo made those 435. The Special Committee had taken significant aspirations more tangible. steps forward with regard to the application of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to 428. The Committee was one of the niost effective Colonial Countries and Peoples as it affected Aden organs of the United Nations, and a great deal of hope and Oman. The resolution adopted that afternoon on was placed in its works; he felt sure that that hope the question of Aden (A/AC.109/179/Rev.l) con­ would be justified. tained important recommendations which should help 429. His own country had worked patiently for in the solution of the problem. Members would recall solidarity to further the aims of the United Nations, that operative paragraph 12 of that resolution requested for freedom, justice and lasting peace. It would give the Secretary-General, in consultation with the Special the Committee the fullest co-operation so that its work Committee and the administering Power, to appoint might be fruitful and its stay in Cairo a success. immediately a special mission to Aden for the purpose of recommending practical steps necessary for the full 430. He would ask for permission to address the implementation of the relevant resolutions of the Gen­ Committee later on specific points of the agenda, and eral Assembly, and in particular for determining the thanked members for having given him the opportunity extent of United Nations participation in the prepara­ d making a statement. tion and supervision of elections and of making a report to him as soon as possible for transmission to the Closing of meetings Special Committee. It was hoped that the implementa­ tion of that important operative paragraph would General statements help the people of Aden to reach their goal of true 431. The representative of the Secretary-General independence and freedom. expressed the Secretariat's deep gratitude to the Government of the United Arab Republic for its 436. Regarding the question of Oman, the peti­ generous hospitality and for all the assistance it had tioners had provided the Committee with very pertinent given in connexion with the Special Committee's meet­ information which should help it in assessing the ings in Cairo. The Secretariat was also deeply grate­ situation in the Territory and arriving at appropriate ful to the Secretary-General of the League of Arab conclusions. General Assembly resolution 2073 (XX) States and his colleagues for having placed at the recognized the inalienable right of the people of the Committee's disposal its beautiful conference room and Territory as a whole to self-determination and in­ its facilities. dependence in accordance with their freely expressed wishes, and on behalf of the Special Committee he 432. The Chainnan expressed the SpeciaJ Commit­ assured the petitioners that it would keep that con­ tee's heartfelt thanks to the Government and people stantly in mind when giving further consideration to of the United Arab Republic for th, : generous hos- the question of Oman in New York. Addendum to agenda item 23 75 Statement by the Deputy Foreign Minister of the "We are also glad to be given the opportunity of United Arab Rep11,blic reaffirming our support for the United Nations and 437. The Deputy Foreign Minister of the United expressing all the hopes we place in ~t for better. Arab Republic on behalf of the people, the Govern­ understanding among men and sincere friendship ment and the President of the United Arab Republic, among peoples. We are convinced of the importance expressed appreciation to the Special Committee and of its role in maintaining and strengthening peace its secretariat for their work. The people still struggling throughout the world, and we are confident that it to free themselves from colonialism had in the Com­ will shoulder all the responsibilities of its lofty and mittee able and articulate champions, and he was noble mission. confident that its efforts would meet with continued "I wish you every success in your work and a success. He also expressed appreciation to the Secre­ pleasant stay in our country, which will strive to give tary-General of the United Ncitions for having sent a you a worthy welcome, both as guests and as special representative to attend the meetings in Cairo. friends." His Government had unquestioned confidence in U Thant, and knew that he would spare no effort to Address by the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the implement the General Assembly's resolutions and Democratic and Popular Republic of Algeria thereby help the just cause for which the Committee 441. The Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Demo­ was working. The nationalists in that part of the world cratic and Popular Republic of Algeria said that were well aware that they could expect only moral sup­ Algiers was the last stage in the Special Committee's port from the United Nations, but they were content journey through Africa. Its stay in various capitals with and grateful for it in their struggle for freedom of the African continent had enabled it to enter into and for a legitimate opportunity to achieve progress direct contact with several liberation movements and and happiness. it hac1. thus been able to supplement its information 438. His Government was glad to know that the on the problems of decolonization by placing them in Special Committee was keeping the question of South their context and by seeing them as they actually were. Arabia on its agenda, but hoped that it would not In its African tour, the method thus applied by the have to remain there for -too long. Committee should be pondered, enriched and, if neces­ sary, extended, in order to bring nearer all the solu­ Statement by the Acting Secretary-General of the tions likely to rejuvenate, strengthen and consolidate League of Arab States the United Nations. 439. The Acting Secretary-General of the League 442. Algeria was happy to welcome the Committee of Arab States expressed deep appreciation to the and to help to make its mission a success. Algeria had Special Committee for its tireless work and valuable itself placed great hopes in and had obtained much support to the cause of freedom. It had been a great from the United Nations at the time when it had been privilege for the League of Arab States to receive the engaged in its life and death struggle for its own Committee and he hoped its work would meet with liberation. It therefore felt duty-bound to give the continued success. Committee every support in the discharge of its task, to encourage its deliberatio11s, and to share in the achievement of its objectives which were intimately E. MEETINGS HELD AT ALGIERS, ALGERIA linked with Alegria's convictions and actions. Opening of meetings 443. His country, yesterday still colonized, today Message from the President of the Revolutionary independent after a bitter ancl bloody struggle, endorsed Council and Head of Goveninient of the Democratic the just and legitimate cause of peoples still fighting and Populm· Republic of Algeria against colonial domination. Their liberation movements encountered a natural understanding and support in 440. At the request of the Chairman, a message of Algeria among a people who shared their desires wek011J.e from the President of the Revolutionary and hopes and who sustained them in their efforts and Council a11d Head of Government of the Democratic their sacrifices. and Popular Republic of Algeria was read to the Com­ 444. The Committee would thus have an opportunity mittee. The message read as follows : to enter into e.."tterisive contacts with the leaders of "On the occasion of the opening of a new session those movements and would find on a land still of your Committee in Algiers, I take pleasure in shuddering from its clash with colonialism a particularly welcoming you to our country and in expressing to appropriate background for the study of the problems you, on behalf of the Revolutionary Council and the it had to tackle. Government, our satisfaction, as well as the great 445. He therefore welcomed the Committee, brought pride we feel, in receiving you in Algeria to carry greetings from the Council of the Revolution, the out a task which is in the forefront of our thoughts. National Liberation Front and the Government, and "The struggle against colonial domination, in all thanked the Committee for having chosen Algiers as its forms and on all continents, is one of the -con­ one of its meeting-places in Africa. stant factors in our policy and actions. Your presence 446. As soon as the Second World War had ended, in Algiers to study the problems of decolonization the elimination of colonial domination had become an therefore has symbolic significance for us, and we international objective. The recognition of the right regard it as an event of the highest importance. of peoples to self-:determination, embodied in the United You will find in Algeria the greatest sympathy for Nations Charter, had given rise to great hopes among your work, among a people which feels linked in the oppressed peoples and a new era was opening fraternity with all peoples fighting and suffering to which was to be marked by the final abolition of l win their freedom. colonialism. 76 General Assembly:-Twenty-:first Session-Annexes 447. While many countries had indeed recovered denounced before international op1mon and against their independence during those last twenty years, which it would be able to mobilize all the forces of their liberation had not always been easy and often Africa. The seriousness of the Rhodesian problem they had only succeeded in shaking off the colonial could not be emphasized enough. It brought dire yoke at the cost of immense sacrifices. The general threats to the African continent and with regard to upsurge of human brotherhood which had been apparent it each member of the international Committee must at the end of the war was gradually dying down, consider his responsibilities. while imperialism, as soon as it was threatened, was 450. In South Africa and Portugal the regime of recovering its vocation and striving to maintain and Ian Smith found its natural allies, that double alliance strengthen its domination. The very objective of the being based both on racism and colonialism. The Committee's mission revealed the extent and difiiculty policy of apartheid applied in South Africa had been of the task which remained to be accomplished of resolutely condemned in international institutions but freeing peoples who were still under the colonial yoke it was clear now that the Government of Pretoria was and who were constrained to use violence and to wage maintaining its attitude with impunity and was frustrat­ an unequal war to establish their most elementary ing the economic sanctions taken against it. That rights to freedom, justice and dignity. The struggle striking example showed how well founded was the against colonialism continued, marked both by the scepticism felt by Africans concerning the efficacy of determination of the imperialist Powers to perpetuate the economic measures taken by the United Kingdom a regime of colonial exploitation and by the increas­ Government against the Ian Smith regime. Neverthe­ ingly strong determination of the colonized peoples less, the Head of the United Kingdom Government to break that stranglehold. The irreconcilable antago­ had promised faithfully to take all the necessary steps nism between oppressive force and faith in justice to restore the situation in Southern Rhodesia and had and freedom was reflected by successive outbursts of requested the African countries of the Commonwealth violence. In every place where a colonial regime per­ to allow him six months to prove to them that his sisted there was a hotbed of tension which gave rise to policy of economic sanctions would be enough to the courageous and often heroic action of liberation attain the objective apparently sought. That had been movements. at the beginning of 1966 and the time-limit granted 448. It was not by chance that the Special Com­ to Mr. Wilson had now expired. It was difficult to mittee had arranged the stages of its itinerary in Africa, say that the regime of Ian Smith was on the point of for it was mainly in Africa that the fight against collapsing, a victim of the means of coercion dreamed colonialism was taking place and that many countries up by Prime Minister Wilson. Indeed, negotiations continued to suffer from colonial domination. Whereas were now taking place between the Salisbury racists the other European Powers who had taken part in the and the representatives of the United Kingdom Govern­ colonization of Africa had, either voluntarily or under ment. Did the United Kingdom really believe that pressure from the African people, modified their attitude international opinion could be thus hoodwinked? The and their behaviour, Portugal persisted blindly in attitude of the, Algerian Government remained clear following its policy of colonial exploitation, completely and the delaying tactics of the United Kingdom could disregarding the profound aspirations of · peoples and deceive no one. Only a resolute policy could put an end flouting all the obligations of international society to the Ian Smith rebellion. The present shilly-shallyings towards colonized peoples. As a result of that retro­ were doing nothing to solve the problem; they were grade policy, immense areas of Africa were dominated paving the way for a period of violence in which all by one of the last adherents of an anachronistic Africans and free men everywhere would find them­ colonialism and their peoples were at the mercy of selves fighting at the side of the Zimbabwe people. Portuguese exploiters. In Angola the Portuguese au­ thorities were increasing their war effort in the face 451. It was not only on the African continent that of an armed struggle for liberation which had been United Kingdom colonialism continued to manifest going on for more than five years. That had in no itself. In Southern Arabia, Aden and Oman peoples way undermined the determination of the Angolan were fighting to free themselves from United Kingdom patriots. In the end, Angola would inevitably triumph domination and their struggle took on the same over the blindness of the colcmial Power. The same character as in the colonized countries of Africa. There was true of Guinea and the Cape Verde Islands. again the exploitation of the wealth of the country Although the armed struggle in Mozambique had been and the maintenance of strategic positions remained the unleashed more recently, it was still no less atrocious basic aims of colonial domination. The selfish interests and no less violent and could not leave international of the colonial Power were obstinately opposed to the opinion indifferent. fierce determination of the peoples for liberation and thus led to the same bloody clashes. 449. The situation in Southern Rhodesia was the direct responsibility of the United Kingdom which, 452. The problem of Palestine also had the same in spite of its commitments and promises, had paved colonial character. By some strange justice, the Arab the way for the advent of a racist regime. The unilateral peoples of Palestine had been forced to pay for the proclamation of independence by Ian Smith, the logical Nazi crimes against the Jews and to abandon their conclusion of United Kingdom policy, constituted a own country and remain deprived of their fatherland. challenge and a provocation to African opinion and The Powers which had helped to create the artificial international opinion. It had placed the people of State of had perhaps sought to solve a human Zimbabwe under the domination of a white minority, problem which the sufferings of the Jewish people had thus instituting a regime of racial segregation similar certainly imposed on the international conscience. But j' to that of South Africa. That was a serious blow to the terrible situation in which they had plunged mil­ the freedom of an African people and an inadmissible lions of Palestinians, who had been transformed into affront to its dignity. The African conscience could miserable refugees at the frontiers of their country, not disregard that new aggression which it had already constituted no less a human tragedy the intensity and Addendum to agenda item 23 77 scale of which could not fail to trouble the international a state of moral and intellectual degradation were a conscience. The voluntary contributions-which were blot upon a world where science was daily achieving becoming more and more modest-by certain great miracles which enlarged man's horizon and held out Powers for the Palestine refugees could not dissimulate hopes of a promising future for peoples. The anachro­ their responsibility for a problem whose social and nistic survival of colonial regimes at a time when man humanitarian aspects merely accentuate its political was freeing himself from his earthly ties was becom­ character. ing more and more an international responsibility, 453. For a country had been despoiled, a people had since it was obvious that world p:•ace would always been driven out and dispossessed of their wealth. remain precarious so long as peoples continued to be Therefore, that was indeed a colonial problem. The deprived of their elementary rights. present situation offered the Palestinians no other hope 4S6. Nevertheless, decolonization was not merely but for the reconquest by arms of their fatherland. It a political problem and the struggles for liberation was for that that they were preparing and it was to which it led were only one of its most tangible that objective which the Palestine Liberation Orga­ aspects. It was also and above all a state of mind, a nization had set itself. The United Nations could not new conception of relat1ons between peoples. It must much longer ignore the real nature of that problem take hold in the minds and customs of men and which threatened the equilibrium of the Middle East replace the antagonisms between races and peoples and therefore represented a permanent danger for with a feeling of human solidarity and an awareness world peace. The injustice which had struck the people of the need for real co-operation between human of Palestine must be remedied and it was in the gen­ beings. Decolonization of minds must therefore precede eral interest that all countries which proclaimed them­ and accompany the liberation of peoples. selves in favour of equality of peoples and the free 4S7. Without that transformation, without that enjoyment of their inalienable rights should associate revolution in the rules of international morality, the themselves in that task. work of decolonization would remain incomplete and 454. In reviewing the problems of colonial domina­ would not succeed in eliminating all the problems it tion and the threats they brought to mankind it was sought to solve. For, to decolonize a people did not impossible to disregard the war which was raging in mean only to rescue it from direct domination, which Viet-Nam and whose gradual escalation and murderous was all the more revolting because it was shameless character directly endangered the peace of the world. and open. To decolonize a people was also and above The motives for aggression in South Viet-Nam could all to free it from any forei,gn intervention, to allow in no way justify the sufferings of a people whose it to manage its own affairs and to enable it to embark sacrifices were so great that their right to peace and unrestrictedly along the path of progress. It was an freedom must be recognized. The warlike attitude of undeniable fact, unfortunately proved by many ex­ the United States extremists could not be equated amples, that no colonial Power had ever tried to pre­ with the attitude of the United States people who were pare a colonized people for the exercise of its national deeply perturbed by a war imposed on a small country responsibilities and that, on the contrary, its whole which was resisting heroically that imperialist adven­ policy had been aimed at keeping the colony in a back­ ture. Accordingly, he ventured to state that reason must ward social and cultural state in order to continue its triumph and that reason made it necessary to take exploitation indefinitely. The difficulties experienced account of facts. It was a fact that the people of South by the newly liberated peoples were thus the primary Viet-Nam would continue to fight without respite responsibility of the colonial Powers who often sought against the foreign intervention which was being im­ to profit from those difficulties by maintaining their posed on it. It was another fact that the resistance of political stranglehold and their economic privileges. the people of South Viet-Nam was supported by the The achievement of independence did not mark the National Liberation Front (FNL) which was canaliz­ end of colonial exploitation but rather caused it to ing its energies and organizing its struggle and which reappear in new forms which were no less to be consequently was alone able to speak for the future condemned. of that country. Any sincere search for a solution to a 458. Decolonization must therefore be applied conflict which was condemned by all peoples and equally to that kind of colonial domination which primarily by the United States people must necessarily potentially had the same dangers as direct and brutal consider the FNL as the only valid ~pokesman and domination. To t--e complete, decolonization must main­ the authentic representative of the South \,·iet-Namese tain the patrimony of formerly colonized peoples and people. Any other approach to the problem was neces­ enable them to pursue their development witbout sarily doomed to failure and could only constitute a any foreign pressure. delaying tactic or a diversionary operation. Algeria 459. Of course, it was primarily the responsibility expressed that opinion quite calmly because it felt the of the newly independent countries themselves to take suffering of the Viet-Namese people and because it was stock of their obligations and to ensure that their convinced that the future of mankind was based sovereignty was respected. By uniting their efforts and primarily upon friendship between free and equal pooling their resources they could oppose manifesta­ peoples. tions of neo-colonialism. But the accession to in­ 455. The task of the Special Committee was cer­ dependence of a colonized country must bring about tainly difficult and vast in s~ope. Decolonization re­ new relationships with the former colonial Power mained a problem which weighed heavily over the whose responsibility towards it could not cease merely modern world and its multiple and varied aspects because the colonial regime was at an end. The concealed the basic consideration that peoples must establishment 9f those new relationships, if they were have the right to enjoy their freedom and live a more stripped of all vestiges of domination and if they worthy life. Colonial domination, the exploitation of were aimed at building a better future, based on solid man by man, the maintenance of part of mankind in and durable friendship, could facilitate the changes 78 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexes that must follow the disappearance of the colonial segregation. In spite of that new source of strength system and could provide a new and fruitful basis for for the Organization, few, if any, practical results had friendship between peoples. In that way, Algeria with­ been achieved. out complexes and with an open mind had co-operated 465. The only conclusion was that the United with in a spirit of mutual. respect for the Nations must revise its basic organization and its essential interests and sovereignty of the two coun­ methods of work, for in their present state they were tries. That co-operation, which had developed in spite responsible for its ineffectiveness and immobility. It of difficulties of every kind and which had gradually was abnormal and inadmissible that a country, how­ adapted itself to the realities and aspirations of the ever big, should be able to defy the whole of the two peoples, constituted an enlightening experience Organization and ignore its decisions. As it was now not only as r(!gards relationships betw~en a colonized conceived, the Organ.zation allowed such an anomaly and a colonial Power 1Jut also as regards relationships which prejudiced its authority. The time had come that it had instituted between an under-developed to give the highest international institution a structure and a developed country. The efforts which were being which was more in conformity with the modern world made by each of the parties to improve that co-opera­ and which would enable it to assume its proper re­ tion and triumph over the difficulties that might sponsibility in the maintenance of good relations be­ naturally arise were so many pledges of its success. tween all peoples. The newly independent countries 460. That experience showed that such co-opera­ must find their proper place and play their full role tirn, desirable in itself, became inspiring when friend­ in it. Also, the powers and responsibilities of the Gen­ ship and mutual esteem characterized bilateral rela­ eral Assembly should be reviewed so as to establish tions, when the real interests of both partners were a better balance between the Assembly and the Secu­ judiciously assessed and when there was a common rity Council. Finally, the Organization would remain determination to eliminate and transcend all the ves­ imperfect so long as it failed to acquire the neces­ tiges of the past in order to consolidate the present sary universality. It was impossible much longer to and guarantee the future. Such an undertaking was keep outside of the United Nations a nation as im­ the result of a truly historic view of events because portant as the People's Republic of whose it was inspired by a sincerely shared attachment to the population amounted to a quarter of mankind. It was freedom of peoples, to the fruitful relations which also time that countries which might have had doubts could exist between them and to the consolidation of about the value and effectiveness of the Organization peace and stability in the world. That was one of the should find again their legitimate place in it, for the most healthy manifestations of decolonization. deficiencies and imperfections which he had just 461. International opinion had become aware of the pointed out in no way diminished the importance of importance of the problem of decolonization and it the role of the United Nations in the maintenance of was perfectly legitimate that international organiza­ world peace and the strengthening of co-operation tions had tackled that problem and continued to follow between peoples. The setb.1cks, the mistakes, the delays its development. The presence of the Special Com­ must not obscure all that the Organization had done mittee in Algeria showed the increasing interest that and the dangers that it had been able to avert. Algeria the United Nations was taking in decolonization and wished to pay a tribute to the United Nations for its the work of liberation movements. perseverance and would continue to support it in the 462. vVhile the maintenance of colonial domination continuation of those efforts. In that tribute it also was a flagrant and inadmissible violation of the rights included the Secretary-General who had been able of peoples inscribed in the United Nations Charter, to direct the activities of the United Nations with com­ that situation also had serious dangers for interna­ petence and ~nthority. It did so with all the mor~ tional equilibrium and for world peace. sincerity and w~1rmth because it could not forget the decisive role he had played as Chairman of the Com­ 463. Uncloubteclly, the United Nations had been mittee of Solidarity with Algeria at the time when it preoccupiecl since its _establishment with prob}ems _of was waging its struggle for national liberation. decolonization and with the problem of racial dis­ U Thant would certainly have been one of the men crimination. At each session of the General Assembly who had done most to give the United Nations a those problems were discussed at length and gave rise meaning, a vitality and a clynamism which could make to many resolutions. The Security Council had often it universally respected. dealt ,vith those questions and special bodies had been set up to study them. The United Nations was thus 466. Finally, he wished the Committee every clearly determined to help carry decolonization to its success and assured it that the Algerian Government completion since colonial domination and racial discrimi­ would spare no effort to facilitate the Committee's nation were irrevocably condemned by Member States. task and help it in the accomplishment of its mission. 464. However, it was unfortunately impossible to General statements assert that the results obtained were commensurate with the good intentions shown. Twenty years after 467. The Chairman expressed gratitude to the the establishment of the United Nations, vast ter­ for his inspiring message, and ritories and numerous peoples remained under the to the Foreign Minister of Algeria for the important colonial yoke. The regime of apartheid continued to address which he had delivered on behalf of the Presi­ be the scourge of South Africa and was now being dent and the Government of Algeria. He requested extended to Southern Rhodesia. It was true that some the Foreign Minister to convey to the President and countries had recovered their independence during to the Governmeat and people of Algeria the gratitude that period and had come to take their place i°: the of the Special Committee for the honour they had Organization. Their efforts had always been aimed accorded them by inviting the Committee to hold their at the strengthening of United Nations action in the deliberations in Algiers, the capital of a nation that field of decolonization and against regimes of racial was second to none in its dedication to the liquidation Addendum to agenda item 23 79 of colonialism and the attainment of true independence 473. One could not speak of Algeria without evok­ --objectives to which the Committee also was irrevoc­ ing that people's glorious strugglP to end colonial ably committed. domination and promote a dynamic policy which met 468. The 's gallant struggle for the genuine aspirations of the Algerian people. To be independence had been justly acclaimed as a classic sure, Mali had gained its independence easily because and heroic example of the undying quest for freedom of the courage and tenacity of its people, but also by all colonial countries and peoples. It was to the because of the courageous sacrifices of the valiant lasting credit of the Government and people of Algeria Algerians. He could not express the emotion he felt that in spite of the heavy sacrifices they had made to on remembering the thousands of Algerians who had achieve their independence, they had not, in their died on the field of honour in order that Africa might moment of triumph, forgotten their brothers in Africa one day recover its independence and dignity. and in the Arr h world who were still struggling to 474. He was convinced that Africa, once freed of attain their legic1mate rights and aspirations. The the colonial yoke, would conquer hunger and disease Government and people of Algeria, by deed as well and would at last be able to play its rightful historic as by example, had kept faith with all the freedom role. Unfortunately there were still trouble-spots in fighters the world over. It was for that reason that Africa, places where man exploited man and where the Committee considered it a signal honour to meet apartheid, that baleful system which was no more than in Algiers. a relic of slavery, flourished. It was the Special Com­ mittee's duty to demonstrate the complicity of the 469. The presence of the United Nations in Africa, great Powers, which, by helping the colonialist regimes, in the cause of decolonization, was ample evidence of were impeding the implementation of resolution 1514 the new emphasis in the work of the United Nations (VX). in the 1960s and of the ever growing involvement of 475. His good friend, Mr. Bouteflika, the Foreign the United Nations in the question of decolonization, Minister of Algeria, had drawn attention at the pre­ in accordance with its responsibilities as laid down in vious meeting to the seriousness of the situation in the Charter and in response to the challenge of the Africa. The United Nations was morally obliged to world, in which, despite the pious pronouncements support all national liberation movements, since their of many Members of the Organization, the evil cancer struggle was just and in conformity with the Charter. of colonialism was still existent. Moreover, everyone knew that Portugal, left to itself, 470. During the course of its meetings in Africa, could not continue its hateful war of conquest. He paid the Special Committee had held very fruitful discus­ tribute to the freedom fighters and assured them of sions in the United Republic of ':'anzania, Somalia, the unconditional support of the people of Mali. Ethiopia and the United Arab Republic. It had ex­ 476. Before concluding its meetings in Africa1 the amined in detail the colonial situation in various parts Special Committee should adopt a general resolution of the African continent and the Arab world. In condemning the retrograde policy of the Salazar, Algeria it would pursue its study of other colonial Smith and Verwoerd Governments and the financial questions which were still plaguing that continent. monopolies which were supporting them, and submit­ The environment of the host country, at once congenial ting firm recommendations to that effect to the Geueral and anti-colonialist, coupled with the inspiration which Assembly. It should also fix a deadline for the acces­ it had given freedom-loving peoples everywhere, would sion to independence of the Territories under Portu­ give impetus to the Committee's deliberations and guese domination, in execution of its mandate under contribute to the effective and vigorous discharge of resolution 2105 (XX), and recommend the Security its task. Council to make the econ::>mic sanctions taken against 471. On behalf of all the Committee members and Portugual .andatory. It should also recommend the the United Nations Secretariat staff, he wished to Security Council to require the administering Powers thank the Government of Algeria for the splendid to apply United Nations resolutions and suspend the living and working arrangements which had been so operations of their foreign military bases. generously made for them. He expressed apprecia­ 477. He was prepared to take part in any discus­ tion· of the warm h'lspitality which in the finest Arab sions for that purpose and reiterated his delegation's and African traditions had been showered on the fraternal gratitude to the Government and people of Committee and which without a doubt would con­ Algeria. tribute to the success of their work. 478. The representative of Tunisia thanked Mr. 472. The representative of Mali, speaking on behalf Bouteflika for his inspiring address. He was sure of the people and Republic of Mali, the . Sudanese that it would be a valuable source of encouragement Union (ROA) and the Government of Mali, ex­ to all the delegations and he associated himself with pressed his sincere gratitude, to the fraternal people the Chairman's warm thanks to the Government and and Government of the Democratic and Popular Re­ people of Algeria for their magnificent welcome. With public of Algeria, and to the leaders of the National deep emotion he recalled the ancestral ties which had Liberation Front, the progressive party which had led always linked Algeria and Tunisia, in times of distress that ,sister State ever since independence. When a as in times of joy. It was a special pleasure for the Malian stood on Algerian soil for the first time, he Special Committee to be in Algeria, that sister country was sincerely moved and proud, because he shared whose brave struggle against colonialism would for the feelings of the Algerian people about the struggle ever be an example and a symbol for all oppressed against colonialism and imperialism. The historical peoples. For eight years, the men, women and chil­ ties which had united the two peoples for several dren of Algeria had suffered in silence and continued centuries had been made possible by the two-way their long campaign of resistance under the guidance flow of trade, culture and religion across the Sahara; of the National Liberation Front. From the start, that desert was not an obstacle but a link. Tunisia had considered that struggle its own for, like 80 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexes Algeria, it had promised never to deny its support added impetus enabling it to justify the faith of mil­ to peoples sincerely inspired by the sacred desire for lions of human beings in the United Nations. liberty. The inalienable right to independence was, 486. The representative of Poland expressed ap­ of course, guaranteed by the United Nations Charter, preciation to the President, the Government and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Gen­ people of Algeria for their invitation to the Special eral Assembly resolution 1514 (XV). Committee to hold the final meetings of its African 479. At the neo-Destour Congress held at Sousse session in Algiers. His delegation had been profoundly in 1959, President Ilourguiba had suggested that the moved hy the welcome extended to the Committee administering Powers should hold a conference at on its arrival and was grateful for the inspiring which they themselves would decide on arrangements message with which the President had honoured the for the Jiberation of the peoples they administered. Committee, and for the address which had been That suggestion had not been accepted by the admin­ delivered hy the Foreign Minister. Those messages, istering Powers hut the Cnited Nations had responded and the invitation to the Special Committee to meet to it by adopting resolution 1514 (XV). He was in Algiers, were an expression of the importance which glad of the ~pportunity to express .his delegatioi:i's Algeria attached to the lofty principles of the United gre.1t satisfactton at the way m which the Special Nations Charter and to the implementation of the Committee had carried out its noble mission. Declaration on the Granting of Independence to 480. At the current meeting the members of the Colonial Countries and Peoples. The Committee was Special Committee were to take up the question of privileged to meet in a country which had become the Territories under Portuguese domination. In popu­ a symbol of the peoples' heroic struggle for freedom lation and total area they represented almost a and independence, As a result of the Committee's quarter of the African continent. It was quite natural visit to Algeria, he was at last able to realize a long­ that that grave problem should be dealt with in cherished dream and to pay a personal tribute to a Algiers, a city which was an exemplar and in which courageous people who had fought, and given their freedom fighters found both encouragement and an lives, for the liberation of their land. The Algerian unending source of inspiration. people's struggle. under the leadership of the National 481. Nothing could ever halt Africa's advance Liberation Front, had been admired throughout the towards llrogress. The family of independent African world. The people of Poland had known that theirs countries was daily becoming larger and in the near was a just cause which had not only aimed at Algeria's future the whole of the African continent would be liberation hut had also paved the way to independence independent. for many other African countries. The Algerian people and their leaders were also to be congratulated upon 482. In conclusion, he again thanked the Govern­ their remarkable achievements in other fields, for ment and fraternal people of Algeria for their warm their untiring efforts in the cause of peace and progress welcome. and for their outstanding contribution to the eradica­ 483. The repre:;entative of Iraq expressed his tion of colonialism in Africa and other parts of the delegation's gratitude to the Government and peo~le world. of Algeria for the welcome accorded to the Special 487. Conveying his own Government's best wishes Committee. Algeria, which had struggled so valiantly to the Algerian people and their Government for the against colonialism, to the admiration of the whole future, he said that his delegation was particularly world, was a fitting choice for the Committee's deli~­ happy to visit Algeria, with which Poland enjoyed erations : the sacrifice made by its people to regam fruitful co-operation. their freedom was an example to all those who still suffered under the yoke of foreign domination. 488. The Special Committee had reached the last Furthem1ore, Algeria played a leading role in the stage of its deliberations in Africa, and it was to be Organization of African Unity, in the League of Arab hoped that its discussions in Algiers would provide States and in the non-aligned world and had spared encouragement for the freedom fighters in Angola, no efforts in the cause of peace, freedom and human Mozambique, Portuguese Guinea and the other Ter­ dignity. ritories to be considered. At that stage, he wished to restate his delegation's stand regarding colonialism, 484. His delegation was confident that the Special for the benefit of the petitioners who would appear Committee's meetings in Algiers would meet with the before the Committee. Assuring them of his Govern­ same success as in other African capitals. Important ment's support for self-determination and indepen­ resolutions, aimed at the peaceful granting of inde­ dence for all countries still under colonial 1·ule, he said pendence to colonial countries and peoples, had been, that Poland, by virtue of its historical tradition and and would be, adopted by the Committee. However, social structure, was utterly opposed to any form of when the Committee's counsel passed_ unheeded by the national or racial oppression. It viewed the liberation forces of colonialism, the oppressed peoples, who of colonial peoples as an act of historic justice and looked to the Committee for moral support, had no considered that as long as colonialism existed, there alternative but to fight for their freedom. As a result could be no real peace throughout the world. His of colonialism, many critical situa~ions had arisen delegation had always condemned the brutalities corn· throughout the world-for example, m the Portuguese mitted by colonialists-brutalities which were in direct colonies, Southern Rhodesia, South Arabia ru.1d Oman. contradiction of the colonialists' avowed civilizing Moreover, as the Minister for Foreign Affairs of mission in the Territories concerned. In Southern Algeria had rightly pointed out, there was also the Rhodesia and South \Vest Africa crimes were being tragedy of Palestine. perpetrated against humanity and, as the testimony 485. The co-operation rendered by the Algerian of the petitioners from Angola and Mozambique had people and Govern~ent t? the Special _Cot1;1mit~ee revealed, Portugal was intensifying its war to ex­ during its meetings m Algiers would provide it with terminate the African people. Because it received eco• Addendum to agenda item 23 81 nomic, military and political aid from certain NATO 494. The representative of the United Republic of Powers, Portugal was able to flout United Nations Tanzania expressed the gratitude of his delegation to resolutions and those Powers were responsible for the the Government and people of Algeria for their invita­ events in the Portuguese Territories in Africa. They tion to the Special Committee to hold some of its had deeply entrenched economic and financial interests meetings in Algiers. there and were determined to arrest national libera­ 495. The warmth of the welcome extended to the tion movements. The perpetuation of apartheid .md Special Committee, despite the lateness of its arrival, colonial domination guaranteed huge profits, earned was part of an inseparable tradition among Algerians. with cheap migrant labour, for the United Kingdom, It was very touching that the Committee should be the United States and West Germany. However, their holding meetings in Algeria only four years after the defiant attitude would have to change radically. country had disengaged itself from the claims of Poland, which had been the first victim of Nazism colonialism. Never in the twentieth century had a and its creed of the master race, considered that people paid such a price for freedom. Indeed, that colonialism and racism were not only an affront to should be a lesson to colonial Powers that the just human dignity but also a threat to world peace. It cause always won. A further lesson was provided by would not cease to raise its voice, therefore, to support Algeria's progress since independence. The country's national liberation movements and it would continue attainments showed what could be done in an atmos­ to denounce colonialists as the enemies of peace and phere of freedom and independence. international co-operation. The time had come for the 496. It was fitting that the Special Committee Special Committee to take action to remove a danger should discuss the question of Portuguese Territories which would not spare any Power, great or small. in Africa. Portugal was refusing to learn from history, For that reason, his Government whole-heartedly sup­ but the freedom fighters of those Territories should ported the total eradication of colonialism and racism. draw inspiration from what Algeria had achieved. 489. The representative of India thanked the Presi­ Tanzania would always be on the side of the forces of dent, the people and the Government of Algeria for freedom ; for so long as the cancer of colonialism and their hospitality. Algeria was a fitting choice as the apartheid subsisted, there could be no true freedom or venue for the Special Committee's last meeting in lasting peace. The Committee was therefore not only Africa, since the lives of over two millions of its performing a task but also carrying out its duty to people had been lost in its struggle against colonialism. eliminate colonialism. The messages to the Committee of the President of 497. He was grateful for the encouraging message the Revolutionary Council and the Minister for from the President of the Revolutionary Council and Foreign Affairs of Algeria, which had emphasized the for the inspiring address by the Foreign Minister. urgent r:ature of the various problems and had drawn As the Committee's tour drew to a close, his delega­ attention to the seriousness of the situation in such tion was more than ever convinced of the determina­ Territories as Southern Rhodesia and those under tion of Africans to uproot colonialism from their con­ Portuguese administration, would make an important tinent. contribution to the Special Committee's work. 498. The representative of Yugoslavia associated 490. India's struggle against colonialism was well himself with the Chairman's statement thanking the known throughout the world and the name~ of Gandhi Government and people of Algeria for their warm and Nehru would remain for ever enshrined in the welcome. His delegation was happy to be in Algeria, hearts of all who cherished freedom. It had always whose struggle for indeper.dence had been an inspira­ maintained that its own independence would be incom­ tion to liberation movements elsewhere in Africa. plete while other countries in Asia and Africa re­ Since the country continued to play an important role mained enslaved since freedom was one and indivisible in that respect, various African liberation movements for all peoples. India therefore joined with all those had set up their headquarters in Algeria. who fought against the hideous forces of colonialism in Africa. 499. The inspiring message from the President of 491. Despite the fact that many of the most power­ the Revolutionary Council and the statement of the ful c6untries had at last realized that colonialism could Foreign Minister would provide further impetus for not endure, Portugal still clung to its inhuman domina­ the Special Committee's work. Co-operation and tion of certain African Territories. It was living in an friendship between Algeria and Yugoslavia dated from age that had since passed by and ruthlessly perpetuated the time of the Algerian struggle for independence its domination over the African people with the aid and continued on the basis of non-alignment and peace. of its allies. It was to be deplored that, after hundreds 500. He concluded by expressing his thanks for G~ years of the so-called civilizing Christian mission, the hospitality extended to the Special Committee and barely 3 to 4 per cent of the people in the Portuguese the fine facilities and working arrangements provided, Territories were literate. and wished the Algerian people all success, prosperity 492. While the Special Committee could not physi­ and progress. cally prevent the Portuguese from their ruthless 501. The representative of Afghanirtan associated domination in the African Territories, it could speak himself \Vith the Chairman's statement thanking the forth and expose Portugal and its allies for their President of the Revolutionary Council for his inspir­ reprehensible action. His delegation would support all ing message and the Foreign Minister for his impor­ those who endeavoured to e...--cpose colonialism. Human tant address and kind words of welcome. His gratitude dignity and freedom, to have any meaning, had to be also went to the Government and people of Algeria one and indivisible for all mankind. for inviting the Special Committee to hold some of its 493. Lastly, his delegation extended to the Govern­ meetings in Algiers. ment and people of Algeria every best wish for their 502. The warm welcome extended to the Special continued well-being and prosperity. Committee was further testimony of the traditional 82 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexes hospitality of Algerians, in whose country colonialism tion of peoples. Peace-loving peoples too, would have had encountered one of its greatest setbacks. Having to present a united front to them. The Special Com­ gained its independence, Algeria was playing a leading mittee should make use of the right conferred on it role in decolonization. by the General Assembly at its twentieth session to 503. Afghanistan and Algeria were bound in com­ report on any developments which might threaten mon aspirations and spiritual ties. When the heroic international peace and security. It should recommend efforts and sacrifices of Algeria had led to indepen­ measures in conformity with Chapter VII of the dence, the joy of Afghanistan had been immense. He Charter against Portugal, South Africa and Southern expressed his country's heartfelt wishes to the Algerian Rhodesia. Decisions had to be taken to justify the people for their happiness, prosperity and progress. hopes of the oppressed peoples of Africa. In con­ 504. The representative of the Union of Soviet clusion, he wished Algeria every success in the course Socialist Republics expressed the sincere gratitude of upon which it had embarked. the Soviet Union delegation to the President of the 510. The representative of the Ivory Coast said Revolutionary Council, the Government and the people that he considered it an honour and a pleasant duty of the Democratic and Popular Republic of Algeria for for his delegation to associate itself with the very their invitation and very cordial hospitality. The sincere thanks which had been expressed to the Special Committee's meetings in Algiers would un­ Government and people of the Republic of Algeria doubtedly be a source of inspiration to all those who for their friendly invitation and for the brotherly and desired the complete elimination of colonial regimes warm welcome they had extended to the members of because the heroic struvgle of the Algerian people the Special Committee. The invitation to visit Algiers, against foreign oppression would always serve as an the last stop on its information tour through Africa, example to those who were fighting for their liberty. would enable the Committee to make contact, as it had 505. The Democratic and Popular Republic of at Dar es Salaam, Mogadiscio, Addis Ababa and Algeria was in the forefront of the fight against Cairo, with freedom fighters who were trying to colonialism and imperialism; the struggle being waged liberate their territories from colonial domination, by Algeria, in co-operation with sister States and the apartheid and shameful regimes, such as the rebel Organization of African Unity, for the final destruc­ regime of Ian Smith. Peace was indivisible and the tion of colonialism, deserved the admiration and rights of all peoples were universal. He therefore gratitude of all peace-loving 1,.:oples. deplored the fact that, nineteen years after the Univer­ 506. He was particularly happy to be in Algeria, sal Declaration of Human Rights, millions of human because the Soviet Union's relationship with that beings were still being deprived of their inalienable country had always been close. That relationship had rights. Such a state of affairs created trouble-spots begun as soon as the Algerian people had set out to which represented a constant threat to international resist oppression. On his arrival the previous day he peace. He appealed once more to the intelligence and had felt the effect of that friendship. The Soviet Union common sense of the men and regimes responsible for and Algeria had a common ideal : the building of that anachronistic situation. The period of the exploita­ socialism and of a new life. tion of man by man had passed. 507. The message which the President of the Revo­ 511. The Special Committee was responsible for lutionary Council had addressed to the members of the implementation of the Declaration on the Granting the Special Committee would be a source of inspira­ of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples. It tion to them, because it encouraged all those who were had to take into account the international background fighting for their independence. Mr. Bouteflika's to which the Foreign Minister of the Republic of address was also most valuable. He was gratified at Algeria had referred in his address at the previous the position adopted by the Algerian Government on meeting and to concentrate its efforts on the peoples problems of colonialism and on a number of inter- it had been instructed to assist in gaining their inde­ . national problems. He fully shared the views of the pendence. Its visit to Africa should be interpreted as Algerian Government about the activities of United a further sign of the links of solidarity between the States imperialism in Viet-Nam. United Nations and all African peoples still deprived 508. The Soviet Union delegation would do every­ of their inalienable right to freedom and independence thing in its power to ensure the implementation of and subjected to racial discrimination. resolution 1514 (XV). In due course it would give 512. He sincerely thanked the President of the a detailed account of its position on the problems of Revolutionary Council and Head of the Algerian putting an end to Portuguese and Spanish colonialism. Government, whose country had already done so much For the moment, however, he would confine himself to help solve the problem of decolonization, for the to assuring the peoples of those regions of the sym­ very wise and understanding message he had ad­ pathy and fellow-feeling of the Soviet Union, which dressed to the members of the Committee. He also had helped and would in the future continue to help thanked the Foreign Minister of the Republic of the independent States of Africa and the OAU in Algeria for his clear and most informative statement. !heir noble struggle against colonialism and imperial­ Both those statesmen were well aware of the heavy ism. burden their country had assumed by welcoming to 509. The colonial Powers would have to be com­ its territory the liberation movements of countries pelled to respect the decisions of the General As­ under colonial domination. He also paid a well­ sembly and the Security Council. That would be an deserved tribute to the valiant Algerian people, which arduous undertaking because those criminal regimes had itself fought so hard for its independence and were being helped by the Western imperialist and was gratified that an Algerian delegation was par­ colonialist Powers. Imperialism presented a united ticipating in the Special Committee's work during its front. A coalition should be formed against those who visit to Algiers. The Committee would derive valuable wished to impede the irreversible process of the libera- inspiration from the message from the President of Addendum to agenda item 23 83 the Revolutionary Council and from the words of and people of Algeria for their cordial invitation and the Algerian Foreign Minister. He was happy to note generous hospitality. The work of the Committee that the Algerian people, despite its modest resources, could not be concluded in a more propitious atmos­ had been able to make useful progress since independ­ phere. He was certain that that work would bear ence. He wished the Algerian Government and people fruit. He hoped that the admirable people of Algeria peace and prosperity. would find a better future and wished it every success 513. The representative of Veneauela said that the in all its undertakings. Special Committee could have wished for no better 516. The representative of Syria said that the fact place than Algiers in which to complete its work in that the Special Committee's concluding meetings Africa. Algeria was a living example of what a people should be held in Algiers was evidence of Algeria's filled with an ardent desire to win its independence awareness of the paramount role it was destined to and recover its sovereign liberty could do. The heroic play in support of the cause of emancipation every­ struggle it had waged was reminiscent in many ways where, and to its determination to lead it to full ac­ of that of the peoples of Latin America in general, complishment. and of Venezuela, in particular. Like the Venezuelan 517. In the defence of freedom, of the right to self­ people, Algeria had not been content with obtaining determination and of emancipation from colonialism, its independence. Since regaining it, Algeria, as a that country had sacrificed a million martyrs and had member of the international community, had heen waged one of the most heroic struggles in human pursuing a policy of capital importance within the history. In the face of its opposition, the myth of United Nations, where it had adopted an attitude of colonial assimilation had crumbled, and from that land, unequivocal opposition to colonialism and of assistance with African solidarity, Asian support, and the co­ to peoples fighting for their independence in Africa. operation of justice-loving nations, would be directed He was certain that the Algerian people, which had the coiip de grace against the remaining pockets of not hesitated to sacrifice the lives of over a million colonialism. It was therefore significant that the plight of its sons in order to win its independence, would of Angola should fonn the main topic of the Special not consider its struggle ended until the millions of Committee's consideration in Algiers. Africans suffering under the colonial yoke had re­ 518. With total self-denial and universal dedica­ gained, with their independence, their dignity as free tion, Algeria had not stopped at its own achievement, peoples. The message which the President of the but had gone on to play its part in the solution of Revolutionary Council, Head of Government of the international problems at large and in support of the Democratic and Popular Republic of Algeria, had cause of liberation. The brilliant statement by its addressed to the Special Committee that very morn­ Foreign Minister had clearly depicted the large per­ ing was proof of that. In his interesting address1 Mr. , Foreign Minister of Algeria, spective of its role in international affairs in general1 had taken up the same theme. The Venezuelan delega­ and above all in the struggle against the remnants of tion associated itself with the Chairman of the Special colonialism, a flagrant example of which in a new form Committee in thanking them both; their words would was thriving to the detriment and misery of the Arab be a source of inspiration to all members of the Com­ people of Palestine. mittee. The people of Venezuela had followed every 519. The great Algerian revolution had not stopped phase of the heroic struggle of the Algerian people and at the eradication of the physical presence of colonial­ the Venezuelan delegation had made it its duty to ism. It had been a structural revolution aimed at defend that people in all circumstances in its state­ restoring the value of man, developing his resources, ments and by its votes. He was happy and proud to placing his welfare at the centre of endeavour, reviving be able to express, 011 Algerian soil, his admiration his true culture and enhandng his contribution to and respect for a people which had not only refused civilization, in human relations based on social justice to be intimidated by the oppressor but had waged a and equality. Last but 11ot least it had been aimed at relentless struggle to regain its liberty and indepen­ stimulating the legitimate tendency of progressive dence. forces towards solidarity, and community of interests, 514. • It was no accident that the Special Committee aims and aspirations. It had been a genuine revolu­ was holding its meetings in Algeria at that time. Its tion against the concept of master and slave1 first journey through the African continent would have and second class citizens, privileged and under-privi­ been incomplete if it had not included a visit to that leged. It had thus a most intimate connexion with the sanctuary of anti-colonialism. Neither was it an ac­ purposes of the Special Committee in helping to im­ cident that the Algerian Government had invited it. plement the granting of independence to innocent The Committee had a duty to see the country which peoples who had for long suffered under colonial had suffered so much and fought so hard against inhumanities, and with the United Nations objectives colonialism. That invitation had enabled it not only of international peace and justice. to come into contact with colonial reality in Africa 520. The gallant people of Algeria were to their but to become acquainted with the noble Algerian brother Arabs of Syria a source of inspiration, and the people which was, in its eyes, a living symbol of anti­ model they had offered was an embodiment of all that colonialism in modern times. was noble for humanity. He expressed his country's 515. Algeria was now free. It had begun a fresh sincere gratitude to them, to their Government and struggle against ignorance and under-development. to the President of the Revolutionary Council. He had been struck by the country's youth. The streets 521. The representative of Italy associated himself were full of children and young people going to school "\-vith the thanks expressed by the Chairman, on behalf or college. Algeria was making a determined stand of the Special Committee, to the President of the against illiteracy in order to combat one of the most Revolutionary Council and to the Foreign Minister of notable consequences of colonialism : ignorance. On Algeria. His delegation's gratitude went to the Gov­ behalf of his delegation, he thanked the Government ernment and people of Algeria for inviting the Com- 84 General Assembl~-Twenty-first Session-Annexes mittee to hold its final meetings in Algiers. So close nial territories seeking liberation, to draw practical were the ties and so short the distance that Italians conclusions from it and to produce better results. did not feel themselves to be abroad when in Algeria. 528. The representative of the United States of He was indeed most happy to be there and hoped that America thanked the Government and people of his visit would give him a closer acquaintance with Algeria for their hospitality and welcome. the country's progress since independence. 529. She regretted to have to place it on record that 522. The Special Committee had to reaffirm its her delegation took exception to certain remarks of pledge to foster the process of decolonization by peace­ the Foreign Minister of Algeria and the representative ful means. All should adhere to that principle, both for of the Soviet Union, both of whom had seen fit to moral reasons and because it was a prerequisite for interject and distort a subject which lay outside the international co-operation in accordance with the purview of the Special Committee. United Nations Charter. The invitation extended to 530. However, she was extremely happy to be in the Committee was symbolic of Algeria's confidence a country which, since the first settlements of Carth­ in the United Nations, for which the Committee was age, the sweep of Islam and the contact of Christian­ grateful. ity, had played a prominent role in history. It was 523. He expressed his delegation's deep admiration a pleasure for her to recall that Algeria and the United for Algeria's past and present achievements and ex­ States had always maintained diplomatic or consular tended his best wishes for the country's subsequent relations. Her delegation was gratified to see the prosperity and well-being. emergence of a new Algeria · confidently facing the 524. The representative of Madagascar expressed future, and wished it every success in its difficult his delegation's thanks to the Algerian Government task. for inviting the Special Committee to hold the final 531. The representative of Ethiopa joined in thank­ part of its session in the wonderful city of Algiers. ing the Government and people of Algeria for the 525. The task which the Special Committee was hospitality and warm welcome extended to the Special performing on Algerian soil was, in his delegation's Committee. The heroic struggle of the Algerian people opinion, of special importance. History had willed against colonialism and imperialism would always that Algeria and Madagascar should have experience remain a landmark in the annals of the Continent, of the same master and the same tribulations. The and serve as an example and an inspiration to all colonial history of Madagascar was bound up with those struggling to win freedom and independence. that of the Maghreb countries generally and par­ 532. The Special Committee's presence in the brave ticularly with that of Algeria; for instance, Mohamed city of Algiers, whose very name had become syn­ V, Sultan of Morocco, had been exiled to Malagasy onymous with anti-colonialism, was of great signifi­ territory, and the Queen of Madagascar, Ranavalona cance. The question of the Territories under Portu­ III, had ended her days in exile in Algiers. guese domination had appropriately been reserved for 526. Like so many other countries, Madagascar discussion in that heroic place where the militant desired peace and sought co-operation at all times atmosphere and revolutionary enthusiasm would un­ among the members of the international community, doubtedly provide a suitable setting for consideration but its Government was convinced that concord among of such a burning question. The sacrifices of the members of that community would be resting on a people of Algeria in defence of freedom and inde­ fragile and precarious foundation as long as any pendence would strengthen the determination of those State cherished the ambition to exploit a foreign now engaged in a life and death struggle against people, as long as any Government persisted in refus­ Portuguese oppression. They would continue the ing a subject people the right to· self-determination. struggle to the bitter end, knowing that their efforts The accession to independence of a large number of would be crowned with success and that their sacrifices African countries and their awareness of their re­ would not be in vain. The trail of heroism and sponsibilities to their brothers who were still oppressed sacrifice blazed by Algeria had left its indelible mark should be a clear warning to those who still clung to on the struggling masses of Angola, Mozambique, the idea of domination and exploitation that they were Portuguese Guinea and other lands. The Committee trying to swim against the tide. The ide? ls of free­ was grateful to the Government and people of Algeria dom and independence had gained such strength in for having invited it, and for having made it possible Africa that those obstinate Governments would be for world attention to be focused on such a crucial forced to listen to the voice of reason and accept their issue. defeat. 533. So far as Ethiopia was concerned, the com­ 527. The case of the Algerian people had provided plete eradication of colonialism and imperialism from the annals of history with an illustration of the victory the earth was a commitment and a national objective. of those ideas over arms. An entire nation might be The fossilized attitude of Portugal in obstinately cling­ exterminated, but it had never been possible to stifle ing to its colonies in Africa was not only an affront by force the genuine aspirations of a people, because to world public opinion, but a shame to modern there would always be others outside its frontiers civilization. Ethiopia would not rest until that shame who shared its ideals. Madagascar had recovered its had been obliterated. sovereignty and was aware of its responsibility to 534. After a rule lasting for several centuries, the peoples still subject to foreign domination. The Portuguese colonialists had nothing to show in their Malagasy delegation was therefore deeply grateful to favour. Forced labour, torture and oppression were the Algerian Government for the generous hospitality the hallmarks of their civilizing mission in Africa. The it had offered to the Committee of Twenty-four, which inhabitants of Angola, Mazambique and Portuguese would again enable the members of that .-_ :lmmittee Guinea were left with no alternative but to resort to to meet men still living under the colonial yoke, to arms to regain their right to decent human existence. gather first-hand information on the situation in colo- They had the full moral and material support of Addendum to agenda item 23 85 progressive humanity for their struggle, long and their cor !'Utting into practice in the best possible way the had uow become a world-wide struggle for the abolition principles which most clearly embodied the spirit of of colonialism, which constituted an ever increasing the United Nations. The Committee's reaffirmation threat to international security. Such a course would and renewed demonstration of active solidarity un­ also preclude attempts at the i.~e of force by certain doubtedly marked a decisive step on the path towards States that dreamed of keeping their colonies for ever decolonization and the consolidation of the indepen­ and by others that longed to recover their lost empires. dence of the young States. Algeria, which owed the 590. On behalf of his Government, he congratulated progress and ultimate victory of its cause to the sup­ the Committee on having requested the specialized port it had received from so many quarters during agencies of the United Nations and other relief orga­ its war of liberation, was today able to appreciate the nizations to increase, in co-operation with the liberation true value of the Committee's work. Support for movements of all the Territories under colonial domina­ liberation movements all over the world was a sacred tion, their assistance to the refugees of those Ter­ ethical principle by v·hich the Algerian people and ritories. The petitioners who had appeared before the its Government were constantly guided. Algeria gave Committee had pointed out the social aspect of the unconditional support to the peoples of Angola, sacred struggle they were waging against foreign Mozambique, Guinea (Bissau), Southern Rhodesia, occupation, a struggle of the first importance for all South West Africa, South Africa, Palestine, Oman, leaders of liberation movements throughout the world. Aden and all Territories still under colonial rule in The petitioners were aware that the future of their their heroic struggle to shake off the colonial yoke country after independence would depend essentially and to regain freedom. Algeria would continue its on the strength of its people and on the fresh sources unstinted support until the day when those peoples of energy that would be released. By requesting the were able to resume their rightful place among the specialized agencies to increase their assistance to family of independent States of the Third World and oppressed peoples and to do so in co-operation with in the community of nations. the representatives of those peoples, the Committee 588. Apart from the action undertaken for the was giving due recognition to the men who today were assistance of the countries under colonial domination, shaping the destiny of their country. The Algerian the Committee's solidarity reflected the efforts made Government fully supported that decision. by the recently constituted States to establish their 591. Other decisions of equal importance had been independence on increasingly healthy foundations. taken by the Committee while it had been at Algiers. Indeed, national independence only became genuine They .m~rked the firm resolve of the member States and acquired true meaning as a country gradually to achieve rapid decolonization 0£ the occupied ter­ shaped and built up its own economic and social ritories. That laudable intention would achieve results framework. Because of circumstances as comple.-.c as equal to the hopes it inspired if it was backed up by the they were outdated-an inevitable consequence of sincere co-operation of the Powers still administering struggles for influence between exclusively foreign the Territories. By inviting a delegation of the Special interests-attempts were of en made to oppose that type Committee to visit Equatorial Guinea, the Spanish of consolidation. Government had adopted a helpful initial attitude. 589. The adoption of the resolution on the im­ That attitude would not really bear fruit until Equa­ torial Guinea became a free, independent and sovereign plementation of the Declaration on the Granting of State, as was bound to happen. Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, a resolution which recognized the legitimacy of the 592. The positions of other colonial Powers, how­ struggle-in all its forms, particularly the most effective ever, had undergone no change. Portugal, among ones-of the peoples under colonial rule and which others, was persisting in its refusal to co-operate with invited all States to provide material and moral assist­ the United Nations. That intransigence was due far ance to the national liberation movements in colonial more to the assistance given to Portugal by certain Territories, constituted a welcome change in the Western Powers than to the resources of its own methods of the United Nations. It had been inevitable, which the Lisbon Government thought it possessed. in view of the blind obstinacy of certain colonial It was clear that in helping the Portuguese armed Powers. The recognition of the legitimacy of the forces to resist the legitimate claims of the oppressed struggle of the peoples under colonial rule put an end peoples those Western States were seeking to safe­ to the age in which the efforts of those peoples­ guard economic and strategic interests of the first oppressed, humiliated and deprived of all their rights, importance. And when the last bastions of colonialism even that of living in freedom-to regain their inde­ had been conquered, those same Powers would want pendence were regarded by colonialists and their natural to rep:ace that collusion by indirect action designed to allies as a violation of estabiished laws. That the dignity prolong indefinitely the exploitation of the peoples of of the stTuggle had today been stressed by one of the those Territories by hindering th? consolidation of their principal organs of the General Assembly was a source newly won independence. That new form of colonialism of considerable encouragement to all national libera- was a potential source of real dangers, the existence Addendum to agenda ::em 23 91 of which it would be idle to deny ; hence the work of visable to supplement and summarize the various decolonization, if it was not to remain incomplete, relevant resolutions in a general resolution. would have to be extended to neo-colonial situations. 596. The ·ChairtJian noted the following important It was the direct responsibility of the Committee to aspects of the draft resolution: in the fifth preambular carry out in full the task which had been entrused paragraph, the expression of the Special Committee's to it. If complete and total independence was to be regret had been prompted by its awareness of the achieved, that aspect of the problem should not go United Kingdom's obligation to attend the meetings in unanalysed. If it did, decolonization would lose much Africa, not only as a member of the Special Committee of its meaning in the eyes of the peoples. but also as an administering Power. In the sooh pre­ 593. That danger loomed eve'n larger when, as in ambular paragraph it had been necessary to point out the case of certain colonial Territories already on the the negative attitude of certain colonial Powers, to road to jndependence, the administering Power was which one petitioner after another had testified. seen to be installing indigenous elements who repre­ Operative paragraph 3 had been a response to Portu­ sented the economic, and often also the political, gal's and South Africa's and Southern Rhodesia's interests of the colonialists themselves. That could defiance of world opinion and of the international only result in further exploitation of the peoples of Organization'r recommendations. It was based upon those territories within the framework of the grant­ the position tJ 1at had always been taken by the Special ing of independence. The Special Committee should Committee and by the African group in the Security not think that, once independence had thus been Council. Operative paragraph 4 reflected the Commit­ granted, its work was over. It would be useful if tee's concern about the foreign financial interests commissions representing the United Nations could that not only collaborated with the administering visit territories about to become independent in order Powers but also provided funds enabling them to that their peoples might be free to choose genuine continue their wars of oppression. Operative paragraph leaders under United Nations supervision. The idea of 5 reflected past statements, but also contained a slight granting independence must be conceived in flexible departure from previous resolutions, in its request for terms allowing full play to the legitimate aspirations material assistance for the national liberation move­ of the peoples concerned. Any restriction would limit ments. After seeing a documentary film on Portuguese the extent of that natural tight and run counter to the Territories, the Committee had felt all the more aims both of the peoples themselves and of the United strongly the urgent need for aid to be granted not Nations. only by the Special Committee but also by organiza­ tions the world over. Operative paragraph 7 was of 594. In conclusion, he once again conveyed to the vital importance, in view of the administering Powers' Committee the congratulations of the Algerian Govern­ need of military installations in order to continue their ment and people on the conclusive results which the oppressive measures. The existence of such bases Committee had achieved in Africa and wished it constituted not only a menace to the population in the every success in the fulfilment of its task. He also Territories but also a threat to neighbouring countries. thanked all the representatives who had spoken so The recommendation in operative paragraph 8 that warmly and kindly about A1geria and the Algerian assistance should be withheld from the Governments people and assured them of the deep and sincere feel­ of Portugal and South Africa had been intended to ings of friendship and esteem which Algeria entertained cover only the duration of their colonial rule over towards all the peoples whom they represented. He the Territories in question. He asked for the entire asked the indulgence of members of the Committee Committee's support of that paragraph. for the inevitable defects in the organization of the Conference. \1/hatever efforts were made, they would 597. The representative of Ethiopia supported the draft resolution (A/AC.109/L.315) on behalf of the never fully succeed in expressing the welcome of the Afro-Asian group and Yugoslavia, and commended Algerian people, who strove to be among the worthiest the Chairman for his excellent introductory remarks. heirs to the splendid traditions of Arab-African It could be seen that the document provided a sum­ hospitality. ,¥hat really mattered was that each member mary of all that the Committee had done in Africa., of th6 Committee should have felt himself thoroughly giving a bird's-eye view of the salient points con­ at home during his brief stay and should now enjoy tained in its debates and resolutions. the pleasures of a well-earned rest. 598. The last preambular paragraph on colonial­ ism's threat to international peace and security was F. ACTION ARISING FROM THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE'S vitally important but needed no explanation, as the VISIT TO AFRICA facts were self-evident. In view of the many years that Adoptio1i of resolution concerning the implementation had passed since the adoption of resolution 1514 (XV) of Gen .. ral Assembly resolution 1514 (XV) with it was not out of place to reaffirm in operative para­ regard to colonial Territories considered by the graph 1 the inalienable rights of the peoples in colonial Special Cornmittee during its meetings in Africa Territories to freedom and independence. (1966) 599. He associated himself with the Tanzanian 595. At the 454th meeting of the Special Committee representative in noting the importance of operative ·n 21 June 1966, the representative of the United Re­ paragraph 5, which laid down a juridical basis for the public of Tanzania introduced a draft resolution co­ support of national liberation movements in colonial sponsored by Afghanistan, Ethiopia, India, Iran, Iraq, Territories. Operative paragraph 8 would be instru• Ivory Coast, Madagascar, Mali, Sierra Leone, Syria, mental in focusing the world's attention upon the grave Tunisia, the United Republic of Tanzania and threat to peace inherent in the continuation of colonial­ Yugoslavia (A/AC.109/L.315). In view of the inter­ ism. Peoples everywhere must be convinced of the evils I relation of the colonial problems with which the rampant in colonial domination and of the urgent L~ommittee had dealt, the co-sponsors thought it ad- necessity to eradicate it. He announced his support 92 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexes of the draft resolution and strongly recommended it measures to support those proposed by the United to the Committee. Kingdom Government and the Security Council. For 600. At the 455th meeting, on 22 June, the rep­ those reasons his delegation would oppose the draft resentative of the United Repitblic of Tanzania said resolution before the Committee. that two changes had been made as a result of consulta­ 605. The representative of Clzile repeated that a tions held by the sponsors of the draft resolution the draft resolution of such importance cou!d not be voted previous evening. The first concerned operative para­ on hastily. He agree.} with most of the ideas in the graph 7, which had been amended to read: draft resolution, his reservations being all on points "Reqitests the colonial Powers to dismantle the of drafting and terminology. Since, however, the draft military bases installed in colonial Territories and resolution summarized the Committee's activities to refrain from establishing new ones." during its tour and defined future policy, it would The second change related to the co-sponsors of the not be possible for his delegation to take part in the draft resolution: Iran, the I vary Coast and Madagascar vote without being able to receive instn1ctions from had indicated their wish to withdraw their names. its Government. 601. The representative of Poland said that the 606. The representative of Italy stated that his International Bank for Reconstruction and Develop­ delegation had been unable to obtain instructions from ment (IBRD) and the International Monetary Fund its Government and would not, therefore, take part (IMF) were the two agencies which provided most in the vote. assistance to the colonial Powers. Only the previous 607. The representative of the United States of day, the Special Committee had been informed that America said that he shared the reservations expressed IBRD was to grant further assistance to Portugal. by previous speakers regarding the introduction at the He therefore proposed that operative paragraph 8 last minute of a draft resolution which contained new should be amended to read : and substantive provisions. His delegation supported "Requests all States and international institutions, many of the basic objectives set forth in the draft including the International Bank for Reconstruction resolution but was of the opinion that the interests and Development, the International Monetary Fund of the peoples of the Territories concerned, as well and other specialized agencies of the United Nations, as of the administering Powers, would best be served to withhold assistance of any kind to the Govern­ by peaceful co-operation. Since, however, other para­ ments of Portugal and South Africa until they graphs in the draft resolution obscured those objectives, renounce their policy of colonial domination and his delegation would vote against it. racial discrimination;" 608. The representative of the Ivory Coast deeply 602. The representative of the United Republic of regretted that it had not been possible for his delega­ Tanzania said that the Polish amendment was accept­ tion to be one of the sponsors of the draft resolution able to the sponsors of the draft resolution and would because nf a problem in relation to the wording of be included in the revised text (A/AC.109/L.315/ operative paragraph 7. Owing to lack of time it had Rev.l). be~3 n impossible to reach a compromise. His delega­ tion supported the draft resolution as a whole but had 603. The representative of Venezuela said that he some reservations of principle with regard to operative would have preferred the draft resolution, as it paragraph 7. He assured the freedom fighters of the a~_t>eared in document A/AC.109/L.315/Rev.1, not full support of the Government and people of his to have been submitted at that time. He thought that country in their just and noble struggle. it would have been better to wait until the Special Committee returned to New York. The draft resolu­ 609. The representative of 11,fadagascar said that tion embodied a number of ideas, principles and his delegation would vote in favour of the draft statements in regard to which his delegation had resolution, which included a number of ideas and several times stated its position in detail, and that principles which it had always supported in the Com• position had not changed. In order to vote on the mittee. Nevertheless, he had serious reservations draft resolution, his delegation was obliged to seek about operative paragraph 7. In his view the question precise instructions from its Government. Since that of the military bases was not within the competence could not be done from Algiers, the Venezuelan of the Special Committee. The Committee's task was delegation was reluctantly compelled to take no part to understand the aspirations of the inhabitants of the in the vote. Territories under Portuguese domination, but it would be for the inhabitants themselves to decide the ques­ 604. The representative of Australia, expressing tion of the bases once they were independent. agreement with the opening remarks of the representa­ tive of Venezuela, said that his delegation was opposed 610. The representative of Denmark said that his to resolutions of the kind before the Special Com­ delegation did not support operative paragraph 3 of mittee since they lacked precision on important points the draft resolution. It could not agree to a recom­ of principle. In the first place, the last preambular mendation to the Security Council couched in such paragraph of the draft resolution was couched in general terms and based 011 principles the consequences language which was unacceptable to his delegation. of which were so hard to foresee. Nor did Denmark He further wished to restate his opposition to the support the fifth and eighth preambular paragraphs wording 11sed in operative par8t:,oraph 3, in which or operative paragraphs 4, 7 and 8. In the absence of connexion he had already voiced his delegation's instructions from his Government he would go no views regarding the use of force in Southern Rhodesia. further into the question of the draft resolution. The He wished to point out, however, that his Government progressive position of Denmark on colonial problems had been among the first to refuse recognition of was, well known. For the reasons he had just stated, the illegal regime in Salisbury, recalling its representa­ he would be obliged to abstain in the vote on the tive and initiating far-reaching trade and financial draft resolution as a whole and would vote against Addendum to agenda item 23 98 operative paragraphs 3 and 7 if they were put to the 617. vVith regard to foreign military bases in vote separately. colonial Territories, it had always been the opinion 611. The representative of Iran, referring to op­ of the Soviet Union delegation that they constituted erative pragraph 7 of the draft resolution, said that a direct threat to the independence of the indigenous his Government was opposed to the establishment of population and the sovereignty of States, as events any foreign military bases on its territory and had in Aden, Guam and Ascension Island proved. The made its views in that connexion abundantly clear in same was true of Libya. The Italian and Australian many official statements. It was, by the same token, statements were unacceptable. The motives behind the opposed to the establishment of foreign military bases statements of certain Powers were well known. If in principle. However, since the Special Committee Italy allowed United States military bases to be was concerned with decolonization, his delegation was established in its territory, that was its own affair. of the opinion that the question of such bases could The colonial Territories, however, had never been only be considered in the light of their effect upon the consulted and foreign military bases were imposed local population's aspirations for independence. Other­ upon them to prevent them from gaining independ­ wise, the matter would not fall within the Commit­ ence . •,·e's purview. For that reason, his delegation had 618. The revised draft resolution was adopted by not been able to accept the wording of operative a roll-call vote of 16 to 2, with 1 abstention, as follows : paragraph 7 and had had to withdraw its name from In favour: Afghanistan, Bulgaria, Ethiopia, India, the list of sponsors. Iran, Iraq, I very Coast, Madagascar, Mali, Poland, 612. The representative of the United Republic of Sierra Leone, Syria, Tunisia, Union of Soviet Socialist Tanzania, replying to points raised on behalf of the Republics, United Republic of Tanzania, Yugoslavia. sponsors of the dr.,.ft resolution (A/AC.109/L.315/ Against: Australia, United States of America. Rev.1), said that certain delegations had expressed Abstaining: Denmark. the opinion that the draft resolution had been intro­ 619. The text of the resolution (A/AC.109/188) duced at short notice. It had, ho'.r.•ever, in fact been adopted by the Special Committee at its 455th meet­ submitted to the Special Cornn. :ttee on the previous ing on 22 June 1966 reads ns follows : day and delegations had t.Q.erefo1·e had plenty of time "The Special Committee on the Situation with in which to make suggestions if they so wished. In any 1·egard to the Implementation of the Declaration event, the draft resolution contained only one new on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Coun­ element, namely, a reference to the United Kingdom's t·ries and Peoples, failure to participate in the CommitteP-'s work-which "Having held meetings from 23 May 1966 to 22 had been commented upon by most members when the June 1966 successively at Dar es Salaam, United Committee had opened its session in Africa. Republic of Tanzania, at Mogadiscio, Somalia, at 613. \Vith regard to the view· held by certain Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, at Cairo, United Arab Re­ delegations that operative paragraph 7 of the draft public, and at Algiers, Algeria, and having heard resolution did not fall within the Committee's pur­ the spokesmen of the Governments of those countries, view, he pointed out that its terms were very similar "Having considered the situation in various Ter­ to those of operative paragraph 12 of General Assembly ritories still under colonial domination, resolution 2105 (XX), which had been supported by "Recalling General Assembly resolution 1514 the majority of Afro-Asian members and which, more­ (XV) of 14 December 1960, over, provided the Committee with a further mandate to continue its work. Although no general reference "Recalling further General Assembly resolutions to the question of military bases had been made in 1654 (XVI) of 27 November 1961, 1810 (XVII) the draft resolution, the sponsors of course agreed of 17 December 1962, 1956 (XVIII) of 11 Decem­ that they should only be established with the consent ber 1963 and 2105 (XX) of 20 December 1965, of the people. But, as far as the colonial Territories "Regretting the failure of the United Kingdom were concerned, the presence of military bases after Government to participate in the Special Committee's independence would, in effect, mean the continuation meetings in Africa, of colonialism. "Deplort'.ng the negative attitude of certain colo­ 614. As for operative paragraph 3, the views ex­ nial Powers. in particular the refusal of the Govern­ pressed in it had always been held by the African ments of Portugal and South Africa to recognize members of the United Nations. the right of colonial peoples to freedom and inde­ pendence in accordance with resolution 1514 (XV), 615. The representative of the Ivory Coast, speak­ ing in exercise of his right of reply, recalled that the "Deploring further the attitude of certain States which continue to co-operate with the Governments ~ene:al A~sembly had indeed adopted a paragraph identical with paragraph 7 of the dra:t resolution, but of Portugal and South Africa in the repression and it alone was entitled to do so. More:>ver, that para­ exploitation of the indigenous people, graph had aroused lively controversy even in the Gen­ "Recognizing that the continmttion of colonialism eral Assembly, as was clear from the fact that it had constitutes a threat to international peace and been adopted by only 49 votes to 37, w1tn 18 absten­ security and a crime against humanity, tions. "l. Reaffirnts the inalienable rights of the peoples 616. The representative of the Union of So'Viet of colonial Territories to freedom and indepen­ Socialist Republics stated that his delegation would dence in accordance with resolution 1514 (XV); vote in favour of the draft resolution since it ac­ "Z. Deplores the refusal of certain colonial corded with the position which the USSR had always Powers to co-operate with the Special Committee maintained. It also corresponded to the interests of and their continued disregard of the United Nations t.1ie African peoples. resolutions ; I._ 94 General Assembly,-Twenty-:6.rst Session-Annexes "3. Recommends to the Security Council to make that the draft resolution should be adopted by acclama­ obligatory the measures provided for under Chapter tion. VII of the United Nations Charter against Portu­ 623. The representative of Mali said that after the gal, South Africa and the racist minority regime admirable statement by his Iranian colleague he had in Southern Rhodesia; little to add regarding the draft resolution which had "4. Condemns the activities of the financial in­ just been submitted to the Committee. On behalf of terests operating in these Territories which exploit all the sponsors he wished to tender sincere thanks the human and material resources and impede the to their brother States of Africa who had invited the progress of the people of the Territories towards Special Committee to hold part of its session in their freedom and independence ; wonderful countries, thus enabling the members to "5. Recognizes the legitimacy of the struggle of form an idea of how the struggle against colonialism the peoples under colonial rule to exercise their in Africa was developing. They had found during their right to self-determination and independence and stay that, in cases where colonialism still clung to the invites all States to provide material and moral countries under its domination, the economic factors assistance to the national liberation movements in to which all the petitioners and personalities who had colonial Territories; appeared before the Committee, as also the majority "6. Requests the United Nations High Commis­ of the members of the Committee, had drawn atten­ sioner for Refugees, the specialized agencies con­ tion were of particular importance. cerned and other international relief organizations 624. While the Committee was at Addis Ababa, to increase, in co-operation with the liberation move­ Mr. Diallo Telli, Administrative Secretary-General of ment of all the Territories under colonial domination, the Organization of African Unity, had shed light on their assistance to the refugees of these Territories; that aspect of the question when he had stated : "7. Requests the colonial Powers to dismantle the "The salient feature of the current situation in military bases installed in colonial Territories and Africa is the aggravation of the threat to inter­ to refrain from establishing new ones ; national peace and security constituted not only by "B. Requests all States and international institu­ the survival of colonialism but by the strengthening, tions, including the International Bank for Recon­ during the past year, of the alliance formed between struction and Development, the International Mone­ Portugal, South Africa and the Rhodesian settlers tary Fund and other specialized agencies of the in order to consolidate their hold over the entire United Nations, to withhold assistance of any kind southern part of the African continent and to ensure to the Governments of Portugal and South Africa the perpetuation of colonial and racist domination until they renounce their policy of colonial domina­ there. It is a known fact that that ungodly alliance tion and racial discrimination ; of the most backward regimes of oppression-all "9. Requests the Secretary-General to take all three of which have been unanimously condemned, measures necessary to publicize the work of the on several occasions, by the United Nations­ Special Committee as widely as possible, so that nevertheless has its accomplices among \.~;.:! powerful. world opinion may be sufficiently informed concern­ Those accomplices are the many forces-individuals, ing the grave threat to peace constituted by colonial­ companies or States-which have made investments ism." in the south of the continent, which live and prosper from the exploitation of African wealth in that 620. The text of the resolution was transmitted to region and which thus bear a large share of respon­ the President of the Security Council on 1 July 1966.5 sibility for the deterioration of the situation and for the bloody tragedy besetting the African peoples Adoption of resolution expressing appreciation of South Africa, Southern Rhodesia and the Ter­ to host Governments ritories under Portuguese domination. As these 621. At the 455th meeting, the representative of accomplices are in large measure responsible for the I ran said that he was privileged to introduce, on behalf paralysis which affects all peaceful attempts at de­ of twenty members of the Special Committee, a draft colonization, they are naturally the major obstacles resolution (A/AC.109/L.316) expressing appreciation in the way of the Committee's efforts. It is there­ to the Governments which had invited the Committee fore important that you should find an adequate to meet in their countries. solution to a serious and specific situation, failing 622. The Committee could be proud of its accom­ which your Committee and all those working for plishments in Africa; it had taken important decisions peaceful decolonization cannot hope to achieve any for the full implementation of the Declaration on the positive result. This is a most important point, for Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and what is needed now in the matter of decolonization Peoples and had done much to strengthen the con­ is not resolutions but solutions. The obstacles to fidence placed in the United Nations by those still the solutions are, firstly, the alliance between the under colonial domination. The Committee, which had regimes of Pretoria, Salisbury and Lisbon; and, everywhere received an enthusiastic welcome, was secondly, the support which this alliance is receiving particularly indebted to the host countries which, by from its accomplices in Europe and the United their invitation, had helped to accelerate independence States, especially by way of bilateral assistance or for all countries. They had also made it possible for the aid provided by organizations such as NATO. the United Nations to establish direct contact with That is the source of the great difficulties which the peoples concerned. In conclusion, he proposed are hampering the efforts to achieve decolonization in Africa. It is to this that the principal efforts of the Committee should be directed." 5 Official Records of tlte Secitrity Cou11cil, Twenty-first Year, Supplement for July, August and September 1966, document 625. After hearing the petitioners and seeing the S/7395. film which some of them had made, members of the __,,,,a Addendum to agenda item 23 95 Committee were surely more convinced than ever that The work of the Special Committee in Africa last year also colonialism was a disgrace to mankind and to the benefited from the co-operation it was able to establish with the conscience of man, a view which had been eloquently Organization of African Unity through the participation of the expressed by the representative of Denmark. In con­ Co-ordinating Committee for the Liberation of Africa as well clusion, he thanked all the host Governments for wel­ as of the Administrative Secretary-General of that organization. coming the Committee and for the facilities with which The Special Committee notes with grave concern that the they had provided it for the achievement of its task: renewed hopes of freedom and independence without delay which were inspired in colonial peoples by the Declaration on the they had all proved, if proof were needed, their sincere Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples on desire to co-operate with the United Nations. He there­ its adoption over five years ago have, with but a few exceptions, fore proposed that the Committee should adopt the not been realized. Indeed, owing to the negative attitude or non­ twenty-Power draft resolution (A/AC.109/L.316) by co-operation of the administering Powers concerned, very little acclamation. progress has been made in the implementation of the Declaration 626. At the same meeting the Special Committee in most of the Territories, including the larger Territories in adopted the draft resolution (A/AC.109/L.316) by Africa, which engaged the attention of the Special Committee acclamation. The text of the resolution (A/AC.109/ in previous years. 189) reads as follows : The Special Committee is convinced that its forthcoming visit to Africa will not merely demonstrate the increasing concern "The Special Committee on the Situation with of the United Nations for the position of colonial peoples but strengthen its own capacity to assist these peoples in their struggle regard to the Inipleme-r'ation of the Declaration on for independence. This consideration is of special significance the Granting of Inde1, .lence to Colonial Countries in view of the General Assembly's request, contained in its and Peoples, resolution 2105 (XX) that the Special Committee in continuing "Having held meetiugs from 23 May to 22 June to seek the best means for the immediate and full application 1966 successively at Dares Salaam, United Republic of the Declaration, should, whenever it considers necessary, recommend a deadline for the accession to independence of each of Tanzania, at Mogadiscio, Somalia, at Addis colonial Territory. Further, the Special Committee's visit to Ababa, Ethiopia, at Cairo, United Arab Republic, Africa will facilitate the appearance before it of representa­ and at Algiers, Algeria, and having heard the spokes­ tives of nationalist movements wishing to express their views men of the Governments. of those countries, regarding the future of their countries, who would otherwise "E.rpresses its profound gratitude to the Govern­ find it impossible to travel to New York. ments and people of the Uniteci Republic of Tanzania, The programme of the Committee's meetings in Africa is as Somalia, Ethiopia, the United Arab Republic and follows: Algeria for inviting the Special Committee to hold Dar es Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania: between 22 and meetings in their respective capitals, for providing 30 May 1966; the Committee with the necessary facilities for its Mogadiscio, Somalia: between 31 May and 3 June 1966; meetings, and for their generous and kind hos­ Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: between 4 and 9 June 1966; pitality." Cairo, United Arab Republic: between 9 and 16 June 1966; Algiers, Algeria: between 16 and 22 June 1966. ANNEX I The items on the agenda of the Special Committee for these Communique issued on 14 May 1966 by the Chairman meetings will include all the colonial Territories in Africa, on behalf of the Special Committee Aden, Oman, Mauritius and Seychelles. In response to invitations extended to it by the Governments of Algeria, Ethiopia, Somalia, the United Arab Republic and the ANNEX II United Republic of Tanzania, the Special Committee of Twenty­ Four has decided to hold a series of meetings this year in List of representatives who attended the Special Committee's Algiers, Addis Ababa, Mogadiscio, Cairo and Dar es Salaam. meetings in Africa This decision was taken in the context of operative paragraph Afghanistan 6 of General Assembly resolution 1654 (XVI) of 27 November 1961 which, in establishing the Special Committee, authorized Mr. Abdul Samad GRAUS it ''to ineet elsewhere than at United Nations Headquarters, wheneyer and wherever such meetings may be required for the Australia effective discharge of its functions". The Special Committee Mr. Dudley McCARTHY, M.B.E. was also aware that the General Assembly, by operative para­ Mr. John Howard BROOK graph 7 of its resolution 2105 (XX) of 20 December 1965, had approved "the progr:tmme of work envisaged by the Special Bulgaria Committee during 1966, including the possibility of holding a series of meetings in Africa" and had authorized the necessary Mr. Matey KARASI:MEONOV financial provision in the budget for 1966. Chile In deciding to hold another series of meetings in Africa this year, the Special Committee was particularly com,cious of the Mr. Hernan SANCHEZ positive results achieved by its visit to Africa last year. While the Drnmark Special Committee was unable, owing to the non-co-operation of the administering Powers concerned, to visit the colonial Ter­ Mr. Hans R. TABOR (in Dar es Salaam, Mogadiscio and ritories it considered in Africa last year, it was enabled, by reason Addis Ababa) of its proximity to these Territories, to establish closer contact Mr. Skjold G. MELLBIN with the realities of their situation and to obtain more direct Miss Karen HANSEN (in Dar es Salaam, Mogadiscio, Addis knowledge than hitherto regarding the aspirations of their Ababa and Cairo) peoples. The experience of the Special Committee in Africa last year thus made possible the adoption of several important Ethiopia rsolutions concerning these Territories, which formed the basis of the relevant decisions taken by the General Assembly at its Mr. Gt."tachew MEKASHA twentieth session. Mr. Berhane DERESSA 96 General Assembly-Twenty-first Session-Annexes India Syria Mr. Pram BHATIA (in Dar es Salaam) Mr. Rafic JoutJATI Mr. S. SEN (in Addis Ababa and Cairo) Tu11isia Mr. R GonURDHUN (in Algiers) :Mr. C.R. GHAREKHAN Mr. 'Monce£ KEDADI :Mr. Frank H. C. JOHN Union of Soviet Socialist Republics Iran Mr. P. F. SHAKHOV Mr. Mohsen S. EsFANDIARY Mr. A. V. GRODSKY Mr. I. G. NEKLESSA Iraq Mr. G. I. VEKILOV Mr. Adnan PACHACHI (in Cairo) Mr. Ala'uddin ALJUBOURI United Republic of Tanzania Mr. J. W. S. MALECELA Italy Mr. S. CHALE (in Addis Ababa) :\fr. Ludovico CARDUCCI ARTENISIO lir. Ahmad DIRIA-HAsSAN (in Cairo) I•vory Coast Mr. Mohammad Ali FouM Mr. Julien KAcou United States of America Madagascar Mrs. Eugenie M. ANDERSON Mr. Richard E. JOHNSON Mr. Gabriel RAKOT0NIAINA Mr. Donald MCHENRY i'l-fali Mr. Raymond PERKINS Mr. Mamadou Moctar THIA1,~ Vene::uela Poland Mr. Leonardo DiAz GoNZALEZ Mr. Kazimierz SMIGANOWSKI :Mr. Rafael OSUNA (in Dar es Salaam, Mogadiscio, Addis Ababa and Cairo) Sierra Leone :Mr. G. B. 0. CoLLIER Yitgoslavia Mr. G. E. 0. W1LLI~rs Mr. Dimitar JANEVSKI