n ·1 : i

12th PLENA.RYMEETlNG

Thursday, 24 September 1981, THIRTY·SIXTH SESSION at 3.30 p.m. Official Records NEW YORK

CONTENTS Republic of Germany, who, as President of the thirty-fifth Page session, only recently concluded, applied unremittingly Agenda item 9: . his talents and his energies to the achievement of consen­ General debate (continued): sus in the Assembly. Speech by Mr. Reid, Prime Minister of the Republic of Guyana ·. 193 7. We must specially commend him for his untiring Speech by Mr. Andrei (Romania) . 199 Speech by Mr. Malmierca (Cuba) . 204 efforts to see launched a global round of negotiations on Speech by Mr. Perez Llorca (Spain) . 209 international economic co-operation as desired by the Speech by Mr. Ullsten (Sweden) . 213 vast majority of Member States. Speech by Mr. van der Stoel (Netherlands) . 217 Speech by Mr. Rolandis (Cyprus) . 221 8. Equally, I wish to extend to the Secretary-General our deep appreciation for his own consistent and steadfast work directed towards the fulfilment of the purposes and President: Mr. Ismat T. KITTANI (Iraq). principles of the Charter of the United Nations.

9. With the admission of Vanliatu to Ol~r. midst, the Or­ AGENDA ITEM 9 ganization takes one more step towards its goal of univer­ sality of membership. Today we join with others in wel- . General debate (continued) coming this new Member to our ranks. Guyana is convinced that this RepUblic will make a positive contri­ 1. The PRESIDENT (interpretation from Arabic): The bution to our work. Assembly will now hear a statement by the Prime Minis­ ter of the Republic of Guyana, Mr. Ptolemy A. Reid. to. It was with particular pleasure that Guyana took note of the unanimous deci&ion of the Security Council to 2. On behalf of the General Assembly, I have great recommend acceptance of the application for admission pleasure in welcoming and inviting him to speak. submitted by the newly independent Government of the sister Caribbean country of Belize. The struggle by the 3. Mr. REID (Guyana): My first words, Sir, from this Belizean people for their freedom and independence has podium are addressed to, you in expression of our sincere been long and arduous. Yet even at the very last hour congratulations on your election to the high office of Pres­ attempts were still being made to frustrate Belize's move­ ident of this the thirty-sixth session of the General As­ ment to independence. The Assembly has given constant sembly. Your own long and distinguished service in the and unyielding support to the people of Belize in achiev­ field of diplomacy and international relations is a matter ing their independence and making secure their territorial of public record. You have served not only in the interests .integrity. It will be a moment of great joy for the people of your own country but also in pursuit of the noble ob­ of Guyana when Belize joins the Organization. . jectives of international endeavour. 11. The thirty-sixth session of the Assembly is being 4. I recall with particular pleasure the honour we in held at what may wen be a historic crossroads for human­ Guyana had of welcoming you in 1972 as a representative ity. It is a moment for reflection on the real valu~s and of the Secretary-General to the Conference of Foreign the present needs of mankind. It is equally a moment to Ministers of Non-Aligned Countries. Since your return to make a projection as to where we go from here. for we the service of your country you have contributed to the seem caught up in the contradiction of extremes. Each strengthening of the bonds of friendship between the par­ hour that we meet, the number of hungry and starving ties, the Governments and the peoples of Guyana and people on this sman planet of ours increases. While Sat- lraq-a friendship which is enhanced by our joint and co­ . urn and Venus and other distant planets are being ex­ operative activities as members of the .Group of 77, the· plored through the use of a technology which· is a wonder non-aligned movement and this Organization. indeed, there are people on this earth who spend days to get from one place to another on foot, sometimes in harsh 5. The business of this session promises to be challeng­ conditions, in search of basic necessities like food. water ing, if not perplexing. We are confident, however, that and fuel. There are enormous extremes of wealth among your skill, your experience, your aplomb and )'Our dedica­ nations. There are those. who are luxuriously housed· tion to the search for just and equitable solutions to the while others take shelter from the rain in the flimsiest problems which at present beset mankind will be tactfully hovels. There are others who remain illiterate while th~ and maturely applied, to the benefit of thr. Organization bounds of knowledge expand continually. And each mo­ and the peoples here represented: ment the preparations for war. escalate. 6. Let me take this opportunity to express a,s well our 12. The spectre of deformation and death due to hunge!) thanks and gratitude to Mr. von Wechmar Qf the Federal and malnutrition, that of disease and deprivation through \ 193 A/36/PV.12 and Corr.l ,- ;r: .. \ : i

:K:"'~L ~_·_"-,_':"'''''''',._"""",,,''·riliiiiiM>'·· '- "" ~<-~i?71?7.r!i!.R 194 General AssernMy-Thirty-sixth Session-Plenary Meetings . L...,.... - lack of adequate housing, and, that of decimation and de- succeeding generations from the scourge of war. The over- ,: struction by conventional and nuclear warfare, even in- all result is that the world is slowly inching further away !!

1 voked in self-defence, combine to imperil the survival of from the goal of a secure and lasting peace ,which the 1 : mankind. Charter envisages and which is particularly needed in, our I day. In these circumstances, the second special session of I! 13. At this particular juncture, we are all aware of se­ the General Assembly devoted to disarmament, scheduled; riousbegative trends and tendencies in international rela­ to be held in 1982, assumes an important and urgent I tions. Increasing turbulence within the international sys­ character. It is our sincere hope that optimum use will be I tem has led to a pervasive deterioration in political and made bY 0hther Sta~e~" partichu.larly the !1ducdle:r-we~ponJ economic relations. Developments over the past two dec­ States, 0f t e negotlatmg mac mery prevl e lor Within I ades, which had encouraged the hope that principles such the United Nations. It is. also our hope that the negotia- I as sovereign equality, mutual respect, peaceful coexis­ tions will be approached in a positive and constructjve I i tence and the right of each State to pursue its own path of spirit, one that will best facilitate the achieyement of gen- 1,1 political, economic and social development were achiev­ uine disarmament. But there are certain crisis situations III ing universal acceptance, are now challenged by postures which antedate the dangers inherent in the presenttiends r~l and policies of confrontation, with resultant mistrust. and tendencies and remain in need of urgent solutions. Hi , i\ I~l 14. The non-aligned movement gave a warning a.bout 20. In the decisions taken at the recently' concluded the possibility of the present circumstances at the Sixth eighth emergency special session of the General, Assem­ 11 I i Conference of Heads of State or Government of Non­ bly, devoted to the· qUestion of Namibia, we recordedouf Aligned Countries, held at Havana in 1979, and more re­ determination to maintain the momentum in the march to­ I~ cently at the Conference of Ministers for Foreign Affairs wards universelity. In anticipation of the adoption of those of Non"Aligned Countries, held this year at New Delhi. appropriate measures as provided for under the Charter, at the present session the Assembly must seek to advance I~ 15. Today there is a generalized mood of fear and fore­ further the cause of Namibian freedom and independence. I,l~~ boding. At the root of this 'outlook is the recrudescence, We must demand that those Members of the Organization ~"", in virulent form, of confrontation and conflict, which I' that, in one form or another,. give succour to South Africa IJ some believe derive from ideological differences. It is a in its continued illegal occupation of Namibia and its acts Ij\ sad commentary on man's sense of values that, even as of aggression against neighbouring States join the main­ I; fJ international political and economic relations have wors­ stream of international r\ejection of the Pretoria racists and 1 ened and the plight of many peoples-simple men, their aparthefdpolicies. .. f'i1 women and children-has become ~ore desperate, there I~ can be an intensification in the preparations for war and 21. The situation in southern Africa remains a clear 11 an increase, both globally and within some nations, in the threat to international peace and security. In this regard ~l ~I allocatiori of resources for such preparations. we must not relent in our desire to dismantle the structure ,-; of apartheid in South Africa itself. r1 It 16. The droms of war are beating everywhere. As yet; it I} 1:\ is largely a war that is conducted through rhetoric by the 22. The search for a lasting solution to the situation in III world's powerful nations. But in some les~ powerful coun­ the Middle East requires the reactivation, of a more than . ,l :4i'l tries the war dead are being mourned. However, elaborate peripheral involvement of the United Nations. The stra­ li;,'J preparations involve policies which include not only the tegic consensus which the Organization must achieve and 1"1 fabrication and acquisition of even more sophisticated 1 ,:~ implement is one which would ensure for the Palestinians I'r' components for an already overstocked war system, but I ~ an independent State of their own and allow all States in I~ also the threat which stems from the possession of such the region to live in security and peace. instruments of war and the determination to use them. 23. Likewise, in Korea the present apparent stalemate 17. The question arises wnemer there are States in the must not lead to the reality of permanent division. The various regions of the world which, egged on by the pres­ wishes of the Korean people for their peaceful reunifica­ ent circumstances, can feel secure in the belief that a re­ tion on the basis of principles which are well known,in­ course to lawlessl1ess wttl go unpunished or, at worst, cluding the to-point programme of the Democratic Peo­ will be received with acquiescence by the international ple's Republic of Korea presented by its President Kim Il community. Sung, at the Sixth Congress of the Workers' Party of Korea, must be realized without delay. 18. Already, the pursuit of such policies has threatened to render asunder the fragile fabric of detente so la­ 24. In Cyprus, the intercommunal talks must be' encour­ boriously constructed. True, it was a detente that was lim­ aged, but always within the comprehensive framework ited in both its geographical application and its substan­ which was' devised by this Organization and others' in tive scope. But it represented a beginning and was an 1974 and subsequently. eJement in the process of the relaxation of tension and the democratization of intemational relations. It kept alive the 25. Parallel to the turbulence in global political rela­ prospect of building relationships of equality and mutual tions, to which I have already alluded, is an international benefit and of expanding the opportUnities for global con­ economic system in deep-rooted crisis. It is a crisis from sensus on the solutions of problems which are global in which no individual nation can insulate itself; it is a crisis nature. with fundamentaldestabilizing consequences for .all, es­ pecially the already battered economies of many develop­ 19. These developments threaten to negate the efforts ing countpes. These countries continue to confront the which the,United Nations has b~en so laboriously exert­ twin dilemma of a long-term deterioration in the purchas­ .".,...--_ing over' the years in ....the field_-_of disarmament to save....ing_---_power of their commodity exports and...a volatility--in ~=::~~:::h produ~ lli 24 : ili:::: Se:::::lmronnw exchanges on tlJe world economic I:. !i market. At the same time, the import pri.:es for essential uation. Guyana hopes that the Cancun meeting will, !I manufactured and industrial goods from the developed through the manifestation of the necessary political will, 11 countries show a consistent upward movement. help to give impetus to the search by the international i \ community as a whole for solutions to the problems be- l 26. Those oius who attempt to break out of this vicious setting the world economy, including the launching of the 1 circle of commodity trade by industrializing face the pro- global round of negotiations, and that it will enhance the I tectionist barriers that are erected. And some developed;~:; prospects for international economic co-operation in all its I countries areartempting to shift from multilateral co-oper- dimensions. We recognize that it presents the international Cl atioIl·~to bilateral' exchanges, with deleterious conse- community with an opportunity to demonstrate a breadth j quencesfor the' capacity of international financial institu- of vision and the political will to impart impetus and to )\ tions .to promote development. lend authoritative direction to the global dialogue on eco- li nomic relations. L'! 27. Compounding these difficulties is the increasing loss [1 of, skilled manpower from the developing countries to 32. It must certainly be to our advantage that this meet­ 11 those' parts of the world that are already highly developed. ing will be taking place against the background of an in­ According to a conservative estimate by UNCTAD, over creasing realization and acknowledgement of the interde­ 1.1 the decade and a half from 1960 to the mid-1970s, up­ pendent nature of the world in which we live. Let me 1I, j wards of 420,000 skilled personnel moved from the de­ hasten to add, however, that the interdependence I speak I! veloping to the developed countries. The skilled personnel of is not the one that was born and nurtured in the sys­ that were lost included physicians, scientists, engineers, temic context of subordination and dependent relation­ !~ agricultural experts and other critical professional catego­ ships, for that was an interdependence between the ex­ 1I ries, all trained at immense cost and whose loss has con­ ploiter and the exploited, between the rich man and 11 siderably weakened our efforts to develop. Lazarus, one which saw the distribution of the results of

11I', that relationship slsewed in favour of the powerful. l." 1 28. . There' are some l moreover, who would wish to r·\ blame··the:·ills of the: poor on igeological preferences, and 33. A present danger is a lingering desire on the part of lA particularly the choice'a country makes between a capital­ some to maintain such a patently .unjus~ relationship. The 1 1 ist or a socialist path to development. There are those, emerging interdependence, and certainly the one to which I 1 11 also, who would wish to ba:ie their willingness to assist we aspire, must be based on the principles of equality. and the developing countries according to the latters' choice in justice and on all equitable distribution of the gains de­ r~ a so-called global ideological struggle. rived from it. We have a dynamic conception of an inter­ .:;~ de,endent wnrld, an interdependen~e which is symmetri­ ~1 :...~ 29. I ask: can we with genUine sincerity confront the cal and based on mutual benefit and mutual respect. -I harsh.circumstances of today and the new reality of an M interdependent world with the same old dreams, the same 34. The Third United Nations Conference on the Law of Ii,I old illusions and the same old deceptions? We think not. the Sea has now completed its tenth session. Throughout II[\ The positive changes beckoning mankind cannot be Gon­ the years of negotiations, all States have had the oppor­ il tained, nor can we respond by merely clinging to the old tunity of full participation and have contributed to the sig­ lA economic order. nificant progress which has been made. Indeed, we are at Ii.I,{ 1'_,'1 the threshold of concluding a comprehensive treaty. This I ~! 30. It is within this context that Guyana expresses regret is why Guyana is concerned that there can be attempts at I '1 at the continuing impasse in the North-South dialogue. this late stage to upset a balance so patiently wrought. It i;~ Indeed, the expressed hope of the vast majority ox' P..ii~m­ is Guyana',. lope that all States will participate in the .~ bers of the Organization for the launching of a ghihal signing ceremony at Caracas in 1982. round of negotiations has·remained just·that-.a hope, We have'not advanced much since the near unanimity on the 35. in the finely balanced life-support system of this J~ procedures that was achieved at. the eleventh special ses­ planet, the two most critical areas are those of food and . .~ L~ sion only last year. We must seek at this session to over­ energy. Food production and food security are now mat­ [. f come such barriers as remain to the launching of the ters of universal concern. In his statement before the I ij global rou.nd of negotiations. While such negotiations can Committee on World Food Security at Rome in April of f \ }j lead ultimately to the solution of problems·· which are this year, the Director-General of FAO, in alluding to the "~ structural in np.ture, many of us are faced with economic precarious nature of the global food situation, said that we problems of borp short- and medium-term dimensions. have to be prepared for the worst-not only for this year, These problems require urgent solutions. but also in the years to come. Indeed, for two successive k seasons, as the Director-General reminded us, the world n 3L Yet.'even as lack of progress in the North-South di­ has consumed more cereals than it has produced. For us, alogue is lamented, there may be a ray of hope on the therefore, it seems eminently reasonable to seek interna­ horizon of economic relations at the global level. I have tional support at all levels for promoting agricultural de­ l­ in mind in particular two developments. In May of this velopment, more especially in the developing countries. 11 year the High-Level Conference on Economic Co-opera­ n tion among Developing Countries was held in Venezuela. 36. We in Guyana have long been embarked on a pro­ IS That conference resulted in substantive decisions of an ac­ gramme of self-sufficiency in food. We have not yet ;- tion-oriented nature designed to strengtheIl ,the bases of achieved this, but last year, along with Zimbabwe) )­ such co-operation. And there is to be heldat',CaIlcun in Guyana was a net exporter of food within the Common­ le October of this year a meeting at the highest. political wealth. We intend to accelerate this process. We therefore i­ , level of a grou~ of developed and developing. countries-. regard as contradictory, to say the least, the recent posi­ n . the International Meeting on Co-operation and Develop- tions taken in one of the international institutions, the In-

I I t ....,....--_... __ ._.. - --- "---'-~---'------._--_.-- Dev~opment :;::i:::;:~::===:'~omau::~~o~.re:::_~r-: :AmeriCan Bank, denied financial resources for increasing its capacity for ference, coercion, intimidation or pressure. Equally, we of 1 a~ : t~Ullii 'b n~ food production. We cannot understand how there can be the Caribbean call for scrupulous respect for the wishes of I tat e rJct, on the one hand an expression of an interest in preventing 0zounrepeoofPpleeSacfleO.r the Caribbean area to be respected as a ;,:, men on hunger and on the other the adoption of positions which ' , perpetuate that same condition. Guyana remains ready and 46. It is on tl detem'iined to exploit its potential for agricultural develop- 42. There are, however, situations arising within our re- between VeneZl ment for the benefit not only of the Guyanese people but gion itself, some of which contain'a' dearjJotential' for Indeed, workin also of the people of the Caribbean and even beyond. threatening and indeed disturbing international peace and . Venezuelan and security. One such situation stems from the present nature' ensure that the 37. Guyana has a similar deten.1.ination in the field of of our relations with Venezuela. " every relevant ( energy. Whereas eight years ago it required less than 10 that boundary , per cent of Guyana's export eamings to pay for our im­ 43. Several years ago the' agenda of the GeneralAssem­ graphic form; \\ ported energy needs, today we expend more than 30 per bly included an item entitled' "Question of boundaries be- ' ever since. 1nl cent of those earnings, and this despite the fact that we tween Venezuela and the territory of' British 'Guiana"~ with the Unitec have embarked on programmes of conservation and have The request for the inclusion of that item was made by junction' point I Guyana and Br begun to use dgain alternative but once discarded sources the Government of Venezuela in 1962, four years before I of energy. We in Guyana have been beneficiaries of the my country became independent. The purpose of that re­ generous oil facility established by the sister Caribbean quest was for Venezuela to assert a claim to over two 47. In 1'962, ' Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. We pay a tribute to the thirds of the territory ofmy country. It is apposite to note nization, conter Government of that country for instituting such a pro­ that, four months before taking such action, Venezuela null and void. ' gramme and express our thanks for the assistance. In this had raised the question in the Fourth Committee/ when at that time, as regard, we also wish to commend Venezuela and Mexico, the independence of my country was engaging the atten­ the junior partil which have established an oil facility for the benefit of a tion of the Organization, then, as now, in resolute pursuit some 50 years number of Central American and Caribbean countries. of the goal of total decolonization. Although at that time had received a Venezuela denied that the assertion of its claim was in . major participa 38. Everyone knows that energy is critical in the process conflict with its professed support for,the independence.of There must be of development. That is why Guyana particin~ted fully in my country, the manner in which Venezuela prosecuted the request by the United Nations Conference on New and Renewable its case was tantamount to its making a settlement of its tions of his she Sources of Energy, held recently at Nairobi. Tha~ is why demands a pre-condition to the attainment of freedom and· after his death, Guyana is resolved to bring into use its potential for independence by the Guyanose people. Simply put, an at­ tions. hydro-power and other forms of renewable sou:-ces of en­ tempt was made to weaken Guyana's urge for indepen­ ergy and will resist all attempts, for whatever reason, to dence. With the full and active support of the Organiza­ 48. As the re frustrate our development in that respect. Guyana will tion, however, our objective of independence was honoured tradit support whole-heartedly all States pursuing similar pol­ achieved on 26 May 1966. given a full he, icies. the seventeenth 44. Early this year the Government of Venezuela reas­ and 350th meeti 39. There have been other recent developments in my serted its claim to over two thirds of the territory of Committee, agJ region, Latin America and the Caribbean. Our area has Guyana. In prosecutiug this claim, Venezuela embark~d and the Unite<1 not escaped the vicissitudes and dangers which beset the on a carefully orchestrated campaign aimed at the retarda­ then Governmel international community elsewhere: In the quest for inde­ tion of our economic development and the dismember­ any doubt as t( pendence, its maintenance and consolidation, in the pur­ ment of my country. I was born and bred in a village in from Venezuela suit of economic and social development, change is inev­ the area of Guyana that Venezuela claims. I look forward the documentar itable in Latin America and the Caribbean, as it is to retiring there in peace and tranquillity. It is a part of session, the Ge elsewhere. That process takes different forms and moves Guyana which is rich in resources-mineral, forest, agri­ note of what h in different directions, reflecting the difference in history, cultural, including fish and livestock-and hydro-power, plenary meetinl culture and political norms and experience. As elsewhere, and in which more than one third of our population re­ too, there are external attempts to dictate unilaterally the sides. As I stand before the Assembly, I face the prospect 49. When th~ nature of change and to fit it into a prism often at vari­ of one day becoming an alien in my own village, 1l colo­ was no ambigl peop'!~ ance with the wishes of ihe themselves and detri­ nial once again, after our uncompromising and successful nature of the ( mental to th,~m. We see some of these processes now at struggle for independence, or a refugee from the place of point pellucid, work in our region. Let the Assembly not be seen to be my birth. Thousands of people in my country face this representative s equivocating on the right of the people of our region to spectre, this terrible prospect of a return to the condition fashion their own societies without outside interference. of colonialism or of exile from their place of birth. "In makin it is in no se 40. More generally, the people of Latin America and the 45. I do not wish to burden the Assembly' with a de­ about revisio Caribbean have increasingly been designing their own re­ tailed analysis of the Venuzuelan claim, or the absutdity we consider gional and subregional institutions with a view to advanc­ of its nature; nor, indeed, do I intend to chronicle at this ing co-operation among themselves. Our attitudes are not time the legal, historical, political and moral justification In recent montl1 autarchic. Ne seek to build bridges of friendship and co­ for Guyana's position. In brief, towards the end of the last has reaffirmed operation not only within our region but also with other century Venezuela sought and received the support of the the arbitral aWE peoples and regions. The recent Caribbean Basin initiative Govetnment of the United States of America in placing can conceivably contribute to the realization of these ob­ before an international arbitraticn tribunal the question of 50. The exan jectives. the boundary between Venezuela and British Guiana. Act­ material took pl ing fully i!1 accordance with the rules and norms of inter­ in Guyana rem 41. The development of these mutual relations must of national law, Venezuela and the United Kingdom in 1897 of evidence to treaty~ course be based on respect for the sovereign right of each signed in Washington a which contained their nullity of the a' of our States to pursue its own political, economic and agreement to submit the matter to arbitration procedures contention. ~I

---- - .; .-- ~--:---::-- , I' . .• ; ..."..:i' i··'·······'O).~· .. · I

; . 12th meeting-24 September 1981 197 as a full, perfect and final settlement. Suffice il to say 51. As our independence approached in' '1966:3iid' f.-i that the Tribunal met and delivered its unanimous judge­ order to facilitate the development of.friendly relations ment on 3 October 1899 in Paris. 4 with Venezuela, the Un~ted Kingdom, Venezuela and Guyana concluded an agreement in Geneva. 6 That agree­ 46. It is on the basis of that award that the boundary ment provided mechanisms for ourselves and Venezuela between Venezuela and Guyana was finally determined. to continue to examine the latter's contention of nullity of Indeed, working assiduously between 1901 and 1905, the 1899 arbitral award and to find a practical solution to Venezuelan and British commissioners spared utO effort to the controversy which had arisen as a result of that con­ ensure that the boundary on the ground corresponded in tention. But the ink from the signatures on the Geneva every relevant detail to the arbitral award of 1899. It is Agreement had hardly dried before Venezuela unleashed a that boundary which has given Guyana its present geo­ campaign of hostility and aggression against us'. graphic form; we have lived on the basis of that boundary ever since. Incidentally, in 1932 Venezuela participated 52. In three successive years, 1967, 1968 and 1969, in with the United Kingdom and Brazil in settling the tri­ the general debate of this Assembly, Guyana had occasion junction' point where the boundaries of Venezuela, to draw to the attention of the international community Guyana and Brazil meet. repeated acts of pressure, intimidation, subversion and ag­ I gression by Venezuela against us. Let me recall two ex-· 47. In 1962, Venezuela presented its claim to the Orga­ amples: in 1966, only a few months after the conclusion nization, contending that the arbitral award of 1899 was of the Geneva Agreement, Venezuela, through the use of null and void. The weight of Venezuela's evidence rested her ~ed forces, occupied the Guyanan part of an island at that time, as it still does, on the recollections of one of through which our common bouridary runs;aild -Vene- . the junior participants in the Paris proceedings, recorded zuela today illegally occupies that part of O~1r territory. In some 50 years after the event and a few months after he 1968, even as we were engaged in discussion within the had received a decoration at Caracas, and when all the framework of the Geneva Agreement, Venezuela, in . major participants in the arbitration process. had died. flagrant disregard of it, sought publicly and privately to There must be speculation as to the true significance of discourage investment for development in the region of the request by that junior participant that those recoll~c­ our country which it claims. And there are many other tions of his should remain a closely guarded secret until examples. . after hi£ death, when he was beyond the reach of ques~ tions. ~ 53. It will, therefore, come as no surprise to the Assem­ bly when I report, 3& ~ do now, that during the four years 48. As the records confirm, in keeping with the time­ whicb the Geneva Agreement provided for the purpose, honoured traditions of the Organization, Venezuela was Venezuela did not produce any evidence of nullity of the given a full hearing in the Special Political Committee at 1899 award. Instead, Venezuela demanded, and sought by the seventeenth session of the General Assembly [348th all means open to it, a revision of the .frontier. and 350th meetings]. As a result ofthe deliberations in that Committee, agreement was reached between Venezuela 54. Venezuela claims that the 1899 award is null and and the United Kingdom, with the concurrence of the void, and now denies its very existence. In many formal then Government of British Guiana, that in order to dispel and official statements, as, for example, a recent letter to any doubt as to the validity of the 1899 award, eXperts the former President of the International Bank for Recon­ from Venezuela and the United Kingdom should examine struction and Development, opposing the involvement of the documentary material relating to that awa.rd. At that that bank in the development of a hydro-electric project, session, the General Assembly limited its action to taking the Fvreign Min:ster of Venezuela described the 1899 note of what had been agreed on by the parties [1 19th award as "non-existent". plenary meeting, para. 40]. , 55. The Venezuelan record of breaches of the' Geneva 49. When that consensual position was reached, there Agreement is a dismal one. That record notwithstanding, was no ambiguity about what was agreed upon, or the the Government of Guyana did not abandon the search for nature of the exercise to be undertaken. To make this an end to the controversy, nOr efforts to develop ftiendiy point pellucid, let it be recalled that the United Kingdom and harmonious.relatil1ns with the people and Government representative said at that time: of Venezuela. Thus, in demonstration of our goodwill and our desire to live in peace and hannony with oUr territory . :'I~ making this offer I must make it very clear that intact, we agreed with Venezuela, in 1970, bv the conclu­ It IS m no sense an offer to engage in substantive talks sion of a protocol to the Geneva Agreement-'the Protocol about revision of the frontier. That we cannot do, for of Port-of-Spain7-on an initial moratorium of .12 years we consider that there is no justification for it."S during which period there was to be no claim by either party to the territory of the other. Further, it was th~ In recent months, the Government of the United Kingdom jointly expressed hope that there should be intensive . has reaffirmed in the British Parliament its position that efforts to develop and strengthen relations of friendship the arbitral award of 1899 is valid. between the two countries. That development was re­ ported to the Assembly at its twenty-fifth session [1876th 50. :rhe examnnation of the voluminous ,documentary meeting.. paras. 68-69]. !Datenal took place between the years 1963 ahd 1965. We m Guyana remain satisfied that there is not oi:le scintilla 56. It is Guyana's view that by and large the Protocol of of <:vidence to support the Venezuelan contention of Lie Port-of-Spain worked, well. Although proVision has been nullity of the award of 1899. Yet Venezuela maintains its made in that Protocol for the automatic renewal of the contention. moratorium, it also contains provisions whereby either

~I 198 "'eneral Assembly-Thirty-sixth Session-Plenary Meetings Ct 1I pI Guyana or Venezuela could tenninate it. Venezuela re­ which amply describes Guyana's po~ition. The delegation 11 pI cently announced its intention to do so. of Guyana will, through the established procedures, have C( that memorandum circulated as an' official document of 11 8 11 m S7. When the Protocol of Port-of-Spain comes to an end the General Assembly. !1 m on, 18 June next year, the parties concerned should return i within the ambit of the Geneva Agreement and activate 64. The Government and people of Guyana earnestly the provisions of Article 33 of the Charter of the United desire a speedy end to this controversy. We have no other i T Nations. wish than that of establishing a regime of peace, harmony m and friendship with the people of Venezuela, with whom 1 pi 58. Unfortunately, in signalling its intention not to re­ we share aspirations for a just and satisfying life and with 1 w new the Protocol, the Government of Venezuela simul­ whom we can together make a contribution to our cJ~vel­ fr. 11 taneously embarked on the studied campaign of hostility, opment and that of our region and our continent. if the I! th pressure and intimidation to which I earlier made refer­ Government of Venezuela is of a like mind, then the Gen­ i\ de ence. Venezuela has also belligerently revived its clajm to eva Agreement, i( henceforth scrupulously respected by i til over two thirds of my country, and has communicated Venezuela, can provide such an opportunity. It is oil that [ m publicly that(\it will oppose any major effort on our part basis, and using that approach-an approach which I am to develop the resources, particularly a hydro-power facil­ sure this Assembly will endorse-that the Government of 72 ity in the Upper Mazaruni, located in the region of Guyana is willing to engage in discussions with Vene­ I fa Guyana which Venezuela now claims. In doing so, Vene­ zuela. i pe zuela is in dear breach of the provisions of the Protocol • lj of Port-of-Spain. 65. The implications ot' the Venezuelan claim are se­ 73 rious as much for the future of the relations between dil 59. In this connection, at the Un'ited Nations Con­ Guyana and Venezuela as they ,are for the future of sev­ int ference on New and Renewable Sources of Energy held at eral States in Latin America, and indeed beyond our re­ de Nairobi, Venezuela advised the international community I! gion in Africa and in Europe. ml i'l, ! that it would not recognize any fonn of co-operation ,I which would be given for the development of Guyana if 66. As a result of the award of 1899, Guyana lost terri­ I I such developmeQt included the area claimed by it. The tOly to Venezuela. I ask this rhetorical question: if Vene­ I 74 Government of Venezuela has also urged the European zuela's contention of nullity is valid, is it prepared under ! gu Community to withhold its participation in the develop­ those circumstances to entertain on an equal footing a i! go ment of the region. claim by Guyana to territory which is now regarded as no I per part. of Venezuela? i i 60. There is a position which Venezuela persistently but do erroneously adopts. It is that the Geneva Agreement and 67. Vene.:uela brought the question of our boundary to ,i I po i,1 ter the Protocol of Port-of-Spain, both of which Venezuela the United Nations in 1962, at a time when our indepen­ I j has repeatedly violated, hgally inhibit us from actively dence was being considered. We bring it b:'lck t() the Or­ , I tio pursuing major develoiJment in the area of Guyana ganizat~on in 1981 to help us maintair. our indep.::"dence of I l claimed by it. That position is juridically untenable. We and to have our territorial integrity respected. : I will not succumb to such pressure. No one can reasonably I I 75 I sic ask the Guyanese people and their Government to place 68. We have given notice to the 'Assembly of the dan­ I constraints on their development. gers inherent in the prosecution by Venezuela of its claim. ! adt There can be a threat to peace and security, and we have \ ml( 61. Indeed, Venezuela has reneged on an agreement alerted this Assembly to it. Guyana reserves the right to oU) reached on the occasion of the conclusion of the Protocol reql!eSi, if it becom nece"~ 'y, consideration by the res of Port-of-Spain in 1970. Under that agreement there was United Nations of thv threat which the claim and the me the understanding that each Government v.. ~>uld abstain manner of its promotion pose. However, we now appeal to ! in I from making any statement, issuing any publication, or the Organization and each and everyone of its Members me :1. ! committing other acts which would be detrimental to the to prevail upon Venezuela to abandon the ill-conceived Gu II',l economic development and progress of each other's State. course of action on which it has embarked for too long. 1.1 1 Guyana has scrupulously adhered to that agreement. I,! 76. 69. The complexity of the political and economic crises )J by 62. The history of Venezuela's behaviour on the ques­ facing the international community. today, and the vast ! ;~ mu tion of the frontier with Guyana gives us little cause for scope of the day-to-day concerns of the world's peoples [1, and optimism. What causes further concern are other policies place the Organization, I suggest, before a challenge I,~ and !i :\;f'" thi~ being pursued by the present Government of Venezuela in which exceeds anything conceived at the time of its crea­ ;~ that regard. Thus, allied with the desire of that Govern­ tion. The Organization is not perfect. Yet it has effec­ j'!oi cre; ment to acquire new and sophisticated weapons of war, tively, over the years helped to mute and contain confron­ i ~I the including F-16 fighter aircraft, there are increasingly tation in specific areas. Equally, it has played a positive clamant calls within Venezuela for a military solution to role not only in promoting those principles of a universal 77. the controversy. I would remind the Assembly that the character which should gUide the actions of Member I! ~ the planes used to bomb the nuclear reactor in Iraq were of States, but also in enhancing the prospects and devising i to 1 the same vintage as the F-16s which are being purchased appropriate mechanisms for international co-operation on r pm by Venezuela. Thus, the purpose of the Venezuelan pos­ matters of global concern. L nati ture in this regard is to maintain ~ regime of pressure to den bend us to their will. 70. The range of problems of increasing concern to in­ Othf dividual States, particular regions or groups of States has Ii I tiOll . 63. I have deliberately refrained from making this pres­ narrowed. In any event, the interreiationship of issues and entation. detailed. We have' produced a memorandum the necessity for the successful resolution of conflicts and ./ /' -'~I .....--...... ---_....,z ...... _ ..

------.-_._-_._,-"_._-- --~ '-' ------..._---- j"'"

'llIiiiiil1If~~~;it!<--MiiJ ,iJi1ifi;RI :.1. ".' liB, ' §C$_,Vd'sx:= "" 12th meetmg-24 September 1981 199 .,'~: "'1"" 'C' " "." " . "controversies point to the increasingly global nature of 78. The PRESIDENT (interpretation from Arabic): On Ii problems and the concomitant imperative of a global ap- behalf of the General Assembly, I thank Mr. Reid, Prime I'; proach to solutions. The capacity of the Organization to Minister of the Republic of Guyana, for the important

'I' \ contri.'bute to these solutions would clearly be enhanced if statement he has just made. 1. major Powers and those which act in their image would d make their recourse to it less selective and self-serving. 79. Mr. ANDREI (Romania) (interpretation from '1 ,', French): Mr. President, it is a particular pleasure for me 1 I 71. I believe that now more than ever we need to opti- to convey to you my warm congratulations on your as-

I.' mize .the use of the Organization for the fulfilment of its sumption of the important responsibility of presiding over I primary purposes. Foremost among these must be, in the the thirty-sixth session of the General Assembly and to words of the Chartel', "to save succeeding generations greet you as a distinguished representative of Iraq, a coun- ; ~ from the scourge of war". We must resolve to turn back try with which Romania is developing close relations of \ I the tide, which is heaciing towards a holocaust of unprece- friendship and co-operation. I' : ! dented dimensions. We must resolve to embark unremit­ 11, tingly on a programme of general and complete disarma- 80. The present session begins its work in circum­ stances of continuing tension in international life, which ment. gives rise to profound and legitimate concern among all peoples. The international climate is marked by an inten­ 72. The second purpose is the provision of security of sification of the imperialist policy of force and diktat, of food, clothing and shelter for the masses of the world's consolidation and a further division of spheres of influ­ peoples. ence and domination, by the maintenance of hotbeds of conflict and war in various parts of the world, by the 73. Finally, there is the dire necessity to create the con­ sharpening of the contradictions between States and ditions for a regime of genuine peace and security. We are groups of States, by the escalation and renewal of the increasingly an interdependent world in which survival is arms race and by the widening of the gaps between the dependent on mutual support and on collective action for poor and the rich countries, against the background of the mutual benefit. most profound economic crisis since the Second World War. 74." The non-aligned movement has been in the van­ guard of international action for the achievement of these 81. All peoples and the United Nations are now con­ goals. It continues to fulfil its vocation as an independent fronted with urgent tasks requiring extraordinary responsi­ non-bloc factor hi international relations, free from com­ bility. The President of Romania has in this regard petition for spheres of influence and from hegemony and pointed out that in the present international circumstances domination. The role of the movement as a force for the most pressing need today consists in bringing about positive and constructive change in the international sys­ unity and ever closer co-operation of peoples, of progres­ tem is universally acknowledged. There is now no ques­ sive forces everywhere, for the purpose of putting an end tion of the authenticity of our positions or the legitimacy to the exacerbation of the international situation and re­ of our cause. suming and continuing the policy of detente, indepen­ dence and peace in order to stop the arms race and em­ bark on disarmament, first of all nuclear disarmament. 75. So successful have we been that instead of the deri­ sioT.l which we have attracted in the past there is now the 82. In the spirit of these imperatives, Romania has been adoption of not-so-subtle strategems for infiltrating the taking an active part in international life and is acting to movement and diverting it to purposes which are not of promote the settlement, in the interest of all peoples, of our making or in our interests. We need to continue to the major problems confronting mankind. In his frequent resist these efforts'. Now more than ever we in the move­ political contacts, as well as in international forums, the ment need to adhere to our principles and to be resolute head of the Romanian State, President Nicolae Ceausescu, in our determination- to pursue the policy of non-align­ has been promoting assiduously and on the basis of prin­ ment. To those ends the people and Government of ciple the ideals of co-operation and understanding' among Guyana remain irrevocably committed. States, mutual respect, uniting the efforts of all nations for the complete elimination from inter-State relations of 76. Gl!yana believes that when a better world is created the use or threat of force and interference in the internal by us all through our co-operation and concerted efforts it affairs of other States, for the defence of the freedom and must be managed by us all in keeping with the standards independence of peoples and for the strengthening of in­ and qualities befitting our humanity. Even the mightiest ternational peace and security. and most sophisticated implements of war cannot achieve this. Such armaments can only achieve what they were 83. We are developing broad relations of friendship and created for-destruction, not only of the weak but also of co-operation with all socialist States. We are expanding the powerful and strong. our relations with the developing countries and with the non-aligned nations and, in th~ spirit of peaceful coexis­ 77. The developing countries must be encouraged to use tence, we are promoting relations of co-operation with all the resources, both human and natural, that are available States of the world, regardless of their social system. to them for the benefit of their peoples. The development i process should be geared towards producing self-reliant 84. Romania bases its relations with all countries on the I, f nations which can benefit from the reality. of indepen­ principles of full equality of rights, respect for national I' dence, not by patterning their development'styles after independence and sovereignty, non~interference in the in­ I ~ther nations but by a global effort' for mutual co-opera­ ternal affairs of States, mutual advantage and non-use of I, tion and true partnership. force or the ~at of force, and is \lorking actively to

~-r. ~-- : : --~----_.__. -~-----.-~._.~...•_--~-~~-- - ...... ---~~ • ------.....-: ¥r;;;;;;P, .1,,~c;:;;_iii,Oii\iiiiiiili'iiiliiii!iiiiii_iiiiii!ili!NSTi:;;iiiiiliiOfiil... 200 General Assembly-Thirty-sixth Session-Plenary Meetings

b~­ bring about a generalization of diose principles throughout weapons in general, from our continent. Romania te international life, convinced as it is that this is the only lieves that all European States }Vith a vital interest in this w appropriate basis for developing relations among States question should take part in those negotiations. si and for promoting detente, security and peace. m 90. We vigorously oppose. the production of the neutron pe 85. In the present circumstances, the key to the resump- bomb, which is in fact 81so, intended for Europe. Gener­ tion of the policy of detente, confidence and co-operation ally speaking, we cOllsider it an illusion to believe that ,fietween nations is the undertaking of effective and sub­ security can be achieved through the constant accumula­ 9: stantive disarmament measures, which is the radical tion of new arms, since experience itself has shown that -"'~ th means of eliminating the main sources of confrontation weapons, particularly nuclear weapons,bring only insecu­ in and the danger of war, and relieving the peoples of the rity. A heavy burden of military expenditures. It is also the way di to allocate vast resources for solving problems relating to 91. Romania attaches particular importance to a suc­ d the progress of each country and for substantially increas­ cessful outcome of the current Madrid meeting that would tic ing the assistance 'given to the developing countries. It is lead to free and extensive economic, technological, scien­ the basic means of achieving a healthier political climate tific and cultural co-operation on the basis of respect fQr 9t in the world, accelerating economic and social develop­ the social system of each country and the independence is ment, anCl increasing the well-being of all peoples. and sovereignty of every people and would help to forge be a united Europe in which every nation could develop an 86. Mankind is understandably disappointed at the ster­ freely, without any aggression or interference from out­ ml ility of so many of the negotiations which have taken side. At the same time, we must ensure the continuity of tri place in recent years and which have resulted in resolu­ the process of building security and developing co-opera­ pe tions on disarmament, while the arms race itself, far from tion' on the continent. It is precisely in taking into account pe slowing down, has been given new and powerful momen­ the existing situation in Europe, and the fact that about 80 tra tum. Military budgets are at record levels, and the new per cent of world armament expenditures are accounted of types and systems of weapons that are being perfected for by States signatories of thl~ Final Act of the Con­ pn introduce additional elements of destabilization. All this' ference on Security and Co-operation in Europe, signed at lar feeds the infernal cycle of action and reaction, increases Helsinki, that Romania believes it is of the utmost impor­ lift the risks of the outbreak of a nuclear conflict and compli­ tance for the Madrid meeting to agree on convening a all cates negotiations on the limitation of armaments and on conference devoted to the strengthening of confidence and disarmament. to disarmament in Europe, a conference which would be­ 97 come an essential element in an effective disarmament life 87. It is only too obvious that the arms escalation has process. tur brought mankind to an impasse and that to escape from it cal requires a new, courageous appmach that will lead to the 92. In the present international circumstances, Romania do achievement of a military balance. not through the piling believes that'the most urgent and important task is the err up of armaments but through a coritinuing and sy~temati,,; freezing and reduction of military expenditures, on the an reduction of military expenditures, armed forces and ar­ basis of appropriate agreements and under adequate inter­ ant maments, through resolute measures for disarmament un­ national control. To that end, Romania has proposed that cel der effective control and, above all. through the final principles be worked out to govern the reduction of mili­ Pe; elimination of nuclear weapons. The peoples of the world tary expenditures, a proposal which is already before the nOl are convinced that the unprecedented accumulations of Disarmament Commission. In our view, the formulation po: arms is not directed to the defence of peace, but in fact and adoption of such principles as soon as possible would Opl represents preparations for war. If there is a genuine wish facilitate the negotiation of specific agreements to reduce for for peace, and for stability and confidence to prevail in military hurlgets. The Romanian Government believes that the world, the efforts of all must be constantly subordi­ it would be a particularly positive step if at this session 98. nated t-o the urgent need to enter without delay into effec­ an understanding were reached on the freezing of military wo tive negotiations for the cessation of the arms race and expenditures at the 1981 level. ' pol disarmament, and first and foremost, nuclear disarma­ the ment. 93. In the debate and in the resolutions that will be ~y adopted at this session, priority should be given to the IS : 88. As a European country, Romania is particularly problems of nuclear disarmament. Romania believes that concerned at the accumulation on our continent of the we must make every effort to unblock the present situa­ 99. most powerful arsenal of military forces and modem tion, and that the Geneva Committee on Disarmament fac: armaments ever recorded, including nuclear weapons. It should begin without delay effective negotiations on the nOr is in Europe that the two military alliances are confront­ cessation of the nuclear arms race and the reduction of CdE ing each other. ane many of the contradictions and con­ nuclear weapons. ~y flicts existing in the world today have their origin on the IDI European continent. 94. Romania regards as well-founded and just the pro­ ado posal made by Ole Soviet delegation from the rostrum of a tl 89. Europe, which is already saturated with armed the Assembly [7th meeting, para. 116] that anyone who forces and armaments, is inescapably caught up in the is the first to use atomic weapons would be declared a IQ{ whirlwind of the arms race. Consequently, Romania be­ criminal. Anyone who makes preparations for the use of and lieves that it is particularly important for the General As­ atomic weapons against other States i~ in fact pursuing a for sembly to come out firrnly against the deployment and policy against mankind, a criminal policy. Such a policy ord development of new medium-range nuclear missiles, and must,be resisted with the utmost vigour by all peoples for a beginning to be made as soon as possible on spe- and should be considered a crime against mankind. The HIt , cific negotiations to banish those missiles, and nuclear peoples of the world must take action now, before, it is sati:

------~------~-'---___o____'~,~-'-- • -- .,~J:·r------

. - ---- ~:' towards the I:m:;:24 "';;:e::. the developed and developing co••:~ , '( weapon. Romania therefore considers that everything pos'" constantly grow wider and the state of underdevelopment sible should be done to put an end to the manufacture of is perpetuated, which breeds serious economic anomalies nuclear weapons, which represents a serious danger to at the world level, and mistmst, animosity .1U}d tension in peac~ and man~ind. international life.

95. 'Rbmaniabelieves that the second special session of 102. In these circumstances, the present economic, en­ the General Assembly devoted to disarmament, to be held ergy, monetary and financial crises are having a profound in IggZ;" is' ofp'articuI'ar importance. At that session the 'effect on development and world economic and 'political Assembly will have the task of adopting a comprehensive stability, exerting a very powerful negative effect on the disarmament programme and of bringing about a radical economy of all States, particularly the developing coun­ change in the situation in the field.of disarmament nego­ tries. As has been stressed during the course of the tiations. present debate by high-level representatives of other States who have preceded me at this rostrum, an important role 96.. 'l1l~ supreme duty of the Governments of all States in the perpetuation and aggravation of this situation is is to n~eq~,the voice of the peoples, a voice which is being played by the unprecedented increases in the cost of being)~j~~'d ever more firmly against the danger of war international credit and by exchange rate policies. Ar­ and is demanding an end to the accumulation of arma­ tificially inflated interest rates have had a powerful nega­ ) ments and the production and deployment in their coun­ tive impact, above all on the economies of the developing trie.s ofneW nuclear weapons. It is our duty to tell the countries, aggravating the dimensions of their .external f peoples of the world openly the whole truth, and not to debt, diminishing their already limited possibilities for de­ permit. the creation of any illusion that .one can live in velopment and undermining their efforts to overcome un­ It tranquillity and security as long as the vast accumulations derdevelopment. Furthermore, those excessively high in­ J of ttte means' of destruction continue to grow. The un­ terest rates are affecting developed countries as well, d causing the stagnation of production, investments and ex­ ,. precedepted dimensions of the arms race pose a particu­ larlygrave threat to world peace and to the,security and ports, as well as an increase in unemployment and a de­ It life of .the peoples of the world, making it necessary for cline in the standard of living of the masses. all~tatest6,show responsibility, lucidity and realism. a d 103. The international community must act with the 97. In' the interest of civilization, the safeguarding of utmost determination to put an end to these practices of ~future It life on earth and present and generations, we must force, plunder, oppression and exploitation which, in ef­ turn from words to deeds and act before it is too late 1'0 fect, are expressions of neo-colonialism, pursuing in new call a halt to this dangerous development, and we must forms, more refined but as painful as the old ones, per­ a do everything in our pow~r to stop the arms race and petuation of the exploitation of the weak by the strong e embark resolutely on disarmament, above all, nuclear dis­ and the enrichment of advanced States at the expense of e armament. Let us see to it that human genius, science the others. It is imperative, in our view, to introduce the and technology-as was stressed, incidentally, at the re­ r· practice of reasonable interest rates, bearing in mind that It cent international scientific meeting "Scientists and widening the existing gaps is detrimental to the rich t­ Peace", in Bucharest-are used not for creating weapons, States themselves, since it causes the world market to .e not for destructive ends, but exclusively for peaceful pur­ shrink, endangers general progress in which all States n poses, to accelerate the development of the least devel­ have a vital interest, creates instability and makes even d oped countries, to solve energy and food problems and sharper already existing international contradictions. In :e for the economic and social progress of all peoples. Romania's view, we must bring about an international un­ it derstanding that the ceiling of interest rates will not ex­ n 98. The statesmen of our time will win for themselves a ceed 8 per cent. For developing countries, that ceiling y wo~hy place in history n()t .by an irrational armaments should be about 5 per cent; and the least developed coun­ pohcy, but by the courage and determination with which tries should be granted credits without interest, or with a they act to bring about the cessation of the arms race and maximum interest rate of 2 to 3 per cent. . by their contribution to solving this crucial problem that .ma~kind. is facing 104. In proposing a maximum interest rate of 8 per cent, we realize that this is particularly high when com­ 99. In view of the grave political and SOC7~ I problems pared with the normal return on economic projects and, at facing mankind as a result of the persiSi:ence of the phe­ the same time, that financial relations and international nomenon of underdevelopment and th~ many structural credit should not constitute an obstacle to the progress of crises affecting the world economy, a firm commitment each country and of international co-operation but, rather, by mankind to an effective reversal of present tendencies should be a powerful instrument for the stimulation of in order to ensure the limitation of armaments, and the material production, the expansion of commercial ex­ )­ adoption of specific measures of disarmament, emerges as change and the promotion of economic, technological and of a task of particular urgency. scientific co-operation among nations. Considering the 10 special role played in economic life by international credit a 100.' In strict solidarity with other developing countries and the gravity of the problem of the external debt of of and as a developing country, Romania continues to work developing countries, the General Assembly at this ses­ a for the establishment of a new internatiOJ~al economic siOl~ should issue an appeal to all the Governments of :y order. '. dev(~loped countries and to international financial co-oper­ es ation organizations urgently to take measures to ensure le 1O~. Unfortunately, so far very little has beerl· done to the implementation of a reasonable system of interest is satIsfy this aspiration of the majority of mankind. The rates within the limits I have mentioned. 2OZG.n".,_mbly':"~;:--'::"'~:':-"':';g:---~·_·""""

1O~. The Romanian ~overn~ent believes .that in o!d~r 110. The intensi~cation of.efforts to bring ab~u~ ~he set- i'l to Implement the new mtemational economIC order It IS tlement by exclusively peaceful means of all disputes be- I ! essential to establish new principles of equality and eco- tween States is a fundamental pt:erequisite for peaCe and t ! nomic co-operation, to eliminate all forms of inequality detente and for the relaxation of tensions. Recourse to !i and oppression, to eliminate the neo-colonialist practices arms, force or the threat of force in dealing with disputes 1 which have the effect of perpetuating the exploitation of between States causes great damage and' suffering to the , pe.bples, to ensure equitable exchange and to give more peoples concerned and, at the same time, poses 'immense if subs~antial support to the least developed countries for the dangers to world peace. There is no denying, and experi- ) f ii development of the forces of production in both agricul- ence has oftenconfirrned this, that the USe of force auto- :, ,j ture and industry. At the same time, there must be better matically engenders force. The time will never return access to modem technology and to the conquest of sci- when peoples of the world could be brought to their encc, in advantageous conditions for the deve20ping coun- knees without resistance, when world pUblic opini.on re- IT I. ~ tries; .we must abandon the trend towards using tech- mained passive in the face of acts of force committed by : f nological and scientific monopolies to institute new forms the strong against the weak. The recourse to. military of exploitation and dependence, and to exert political and means or to other kinds of force in any part' of the world economic pressures in international relations. The efforts creates tension and anxiety and gives rise toreacdo~s on of each pe~ple-an essential factor in an accelerated eco- the part of all countries. .: ~ .. nomic and social development--must be blended harmo­ niously with broad international co-operation, primarily 111. The Romanian Government is firmly convinced among the developing countries. that there is no problem or controversy anywhere in the world that could not be settled by political means, ' 106. Furthermore, problems of underdevelopment and of through negotiations conducted in a spirit oi-understand­ the new international economic order cannot be solved by ing and mutual respect. As stated by President Ceausescu: superficial measures. Without courage and the will to make decisive progress and advance rapidly towards that "There is no reason for peoples to have reCOUlse to goal, mankind will not be able to overcome the grave arms in order to settle differences. On the coritrary, the crisis it is suffering flOm at present. The solution of these interests of all peoples and the general interests of problems necessitates fundamental changes in interna­ peace itself require that all disputes between States be tional economic relations and the allocation of substantial settled solely through negotiation There is "only one sums for economic and social development, funds which reason that can justify recourse to arms: a people's need can be obtained primarily by the reduction of military ex­ to defend its national independence and its right to a penditures. free life. We must do herything possible to ensure that . nobody can attempt any longer to quell the indepen- 107. The cessation of the arms race and the inauguration dence of peoples or subjugate them." of disarmament would make it possible to save vast finan­ cial resources which could be allocated to economic and 112. We. consider that in the present international cir­ social development, to assist geveloping countries and to cumstances the United Nations should give priority to ac­ improve the well-being of peoples. Romania's President tion against recourse to force or the threat of fon::e, to has already made specific proposals along those lines ensure the complete renunciation of 'the use of military with regard to the gradual reduction of military expendi­ means for the settlement of international problems. tures over the next four or five years by at least 10 per cent to 15 per cent. Half of the sums saved in that way 113. In proposing, at the thirty-fourth session, the in­ could be used for the economic and social development of clusion in the agenda of the General Assembly of an item the countries which have made those savings and the entitled "Settlement by peaceful means of disputes be­ other half for the progress of the developing countries. tween States" [item 122], Romania was in fact proceeding from the need to exploit the possibilities provided by the 108. The Romanian Government believes that, in the United Nations and the Charter for more' vigorous and process of eliminating underdevelopment and establishing effective action to prevent and settle conflicts between normal functioning of the world economy, the developed States on a just and lasting basis. We appreciate wha,t has countries have a legal"'and moral obligation to support the been done so far with a view to producing the declaration progress of the developing countries. This obligation on the peaceful settlement of disputes and'believe that the stems primarily from the fact that during the long period timeliness and important political significance of such, a of colonial domination vast riches found their way to the declaration require a continuation of efforts in order to metropolitan countries. Furthermore, as Romania sees it, accelerate its implementation.' , it is in the interest of the rich States themselves to partici­ pate in the liquidation of underdevelopment, since it is 114. The Romanian initiative concerning the develop­ only in that way that the stability of the world economy ment and strengthening of good-neighbourliness between and their own future progress can be achieved. States, which was included in the agenda of this sessinn as item 57, also falls under the heading of the strengthen­ 109. In our view, the United Nations is the most appro­ ing of international security and the prevention of dis­ priate framework for undeitaking firm and effective meas­ agreements and tension between States. I wish to stress in ures to improve the state of the world economy and assist this regard too Romania's ceaseless efforts to develop re­ the efforts of developing countries. The prompt initiation lations of cc-operation and friendship with an Balkan within the framework of the United Nations of the global States, and to transfoml the Balkans into 'a nuclear­ negotiations proposed by the Group of 77 remains an ob­ weapon-free zone, a zone of friendship,· peace and good­ jective of fundamental importance which could both meet neighbourliness which would contribute to the security of the short-term and long-term,interests of world economic the European continent and to the peace of.the entire stability and ensure the development of all countries. world.

"

... -"'!."'-.- ~r-~-_.

It' I .. ··· j

12th meeting-24 September 1981 ·203 115.. Romania'wishes to stress the active. role, that these fields. In our opinion, the concern in these areas, should be played by the United Nations in eliminating within the framework of the United Nations, should focus hotbe

)- choose the path of its future development, in accordance younger generation, and for exploiting its creative poten­ with its .own legitimate aspirations and interests. The Ro- tial. We are convinced that this draft programme will re­ In I,manian Government resolutely condemns the policy of ceive the endorsement of the General Assembly. [1­ racism and apartheid of those in power in Pretoria to­ s­ wards the African population, as well as. their armed at­ 126. The solution of the complex problems confronting in tacks against neighbouring African countries and. their ag­ mankind today requires the democratization of interna­ e­ gression against Angola. We demand that all military tional relations, the creation of conditions for the par­ actions against the independence and sovereignty of the ticipation in international life, on a basis of full eqUality, m 'iJ~conditionally. ir­ People's Republic of Angola be halted of all States, regardless of their size or social system. d­ 1~I. ~ttentive prob~ms of We are p&rticularly to the of so­ 127. At l'le .presenttime we must act to strengthen co­ .re Cial development, human rights and freedoms. the human operation and solidarity among the developing and non­ condition in general .and international. co-operation in aligned countries, and.the small and medium-sized coun-

-~------~ • j *.. • ._~_~=-~:::::-~ ~.---$k:""'" triesln ge~ral. m order for them to take an active part 10 134. Swme fever, blue mould. m tobaccp,. sugar-cane . 1 the settlement· of existing conflicts through negotiations. rot;haemorrhagic dengue and. more recently. when we U the bringing aQdut of a new international economic order were still in the process of fighting off'tliat-,last'd~se'ase, f 1 and the inauguration of a genuine process of disarma- haemorrhagic conjunctivitis. We are convinced' that the . i ment. The United Nations today offers the most appropri- imperialists, the agencies of the United. 5.ta,tes Govern- . : ate framework' and opportunity for finding. jointly and in ment. are using biological weapons agaih~t' the. pe()ple of i alspirit of responsibility. solutions to the major problems Cuba. We all knpw-and it has been published even in , ! confronting mankind. ..;, United States official publicat!on~;-:-::t.h~~ th.~ l!~i!ed. ,~~ates ! . has for many years been developntg a very wi'de ana so- phisticated' arsenal of ~eapon.s of. tbis typea~d' ~ilrrying 128. The United Nations is made up of all its Member out many tests for their posslble'use. . .' , States. all of us. It is therefore up to us to act in concert ·1' i r' and with determination to strengthen the role of the Or­ Unit~d Sta~e~, ganization in international life. so that the United Nations 135. We all know also that the has used i the~e weapons. particularly dunngits war; ~g~in~t the I can estaMi.;b its world political priorities and the most t people of Viet Nam. and man~ are. theyni~~4. S!~l~s'yet­ f important objectives. as well as the practical means of 't~e' I achieving ~em, so that the aspirations of peoples will no erans of that war who are stIll suffenng· IQ trmted States from the effects of exposure 'in" areas '~ear:places ! longer be disappointed through false hopes and through ~here 1 grievances. The United Nations should adopt concrete such weapons were used. '. . ! measures which would be conducive to the systematic and lasting solution of the problems confronting mankind. 136. In the case of the haemoqhagic' dengue epidemic, this is a disease produced by the dengue virus No. 2~. The' with the participation of all States on a basis of full serio~ls ~ut equality. thorough. and detailed studies carried' by Cuba's technical and scientific personnel. Who have .~Iso had the aid and co-operation of hightyqualified experts 129. Experience has shown t'jat it is not possible for from oth~r countries. have led to the conclusion'that this

major international problems to be settled in a small vims was deliberately introduced into Cuba. Ho.' group of States, however big and powerful they may be. That is why we believe that the strengthening of the role 1.37. As a ~sult o~ a £yste~atic and eXh~u~tiy~~~~"ysis of the United Nations and the improvement and democra­ of all the avaIlable mformatlon from health agen~l~s: and tization of its activities. in accordance with the require­ institutions as well as from other sources. w~ have' ver­ ments of international life today. are of major importance ified that when the ha~morrhagic dengue epidemic ap­ if international peace and security and the deve~opment of peared in Cuba no epidemic outbreaks of the dengue virus co-operation among all nations are to be ensured. No. 2 had taken place in any of the African or South-East Ashm countries with which we have relations, Our health 130. . The overcoming of major difficulties in interna­ authorities have determined that no Cuban or foreign cit­ tional life and of grave situations of tension and conflict. izen coming from those regions or from other areas had the resumption and continuance of the' policy of detente. suffered from the disease produced by that virus. national independence. security and peace. all require efforts supported by all States and an active and responsi­ 138. Nor were there outbreaks of dengue virus No. 2 in ble contribution on the part of all nations. Latin America or in the Caribbean basin. The last caSes registered th~re date from 1978. On the other hand. we 131. The Romanian delegation. along with all other del­ know that the research centres of the United States dedi­ cated to the development of biological weapons have de­ egations. is determined to make its OW11 contribution to the search for just and equitable solutions to the problems voted special attention to dengue virus No. 2. facing the United Nations. so that this session Gf the Gen­ 139. We are firmly convinced that, to the long list of eral Assembly may fulfil the expectations of peoples mmtary~ throughout the world and contribute to the improvement aggressions of all sorts agairist ourpeople-.. eco­ of the international situation. to the resumption and con­ nomic and political aggressions committed. by the Re­ tinuance of the policy of detente. independence and publican and Democratic Administrations' that have. spc­ peace, to the cessation of the arms race and the adoption ceeded one another during 22 years-the United· Sta.tes of measures of disarmament. particularly nuclear disarma­ has now added the use of biological weapons. . ment. and to the strengthening of international peace. se­ curity and co-operation. 140. The President of the Council of State and of the Council of Ministers of Cuba, Commander~in-Chief'Fi4el Castro. in speeches on 26 July and 15 September of this 132. Mr. MALMIERCA (Cuba) (interpretation from year, has denounced the perpetration of this. unspeakaHle Spanish): Any court of law. any responsible forum. con­ new aggression against our people by the United S~~tes demns murder. International law also condemns aggres­ Government. We have requested the distribution' to "~lll sion. The killing of children is in particular even more those here present of these speeches, which contain nu­ revolting. Ninety-nine children hav~ died in Cuba. They merous references to and much evidence of the admission were victims of the haemorrhagic dengue epidemic that in official documents of the United States Senate' and took a toll of 156 lives. This epidemic broke out simUl­ other bodies that. on various occasions, as part of the taneously in various parts of the country when there had activities aimed at the overthrow of the Revolutionllry been no news of any cases in other States of the area. Government of Cuba, the preparation of the use ofbiolog­ ical weapons was mentioned. 133. In less than three years our country has suffered \ the scourge of five grave plagues and epidemics. which 141. These facts have not been" denied by the responsi­ have hit our cattle. our plantations and now our people. bl~ authorities of the United States Government, in spite

-< ..7 ·IJI!II..• ..••••••••••••••••••,,·••••••E •••••••••••••••

I - .....

,~- ~ 12th meeting-24 September 1981 205

of the fact that President Fidel Castro has challenged them countries that have gained their independence and sov­ le to $tate before world public opinion whether or not they ereignty when one might. think that. an jntemationalorder ve have' authorized the Central Intelligence Agency [CIA] to founded on the principles and purpos~s of the Charter e, perpetuate such acts. would by now be given pennanent shape, it must be le pointed out that the United States Government has cast n- 142. For more than 20 years we have suffered from all aside even minimal respect for the noms of peaceful' co­ of tyPes of aggression from the United States imperialists, existence and the desire for sovereignty of the majority of in and we have accumulated a vast amount of painful experi­ the States and has laid claim to unacceptable supremacy es ence. But, as President Fidel Castro has stated, "we do in all areas of international life, particularly military su­ 0- not fear the imperialists' threats. They may perhaps know premacy, which jeopardizes the carefully wrought struc­ Ilg when to start a conflict against us, but what nobOdy ture of peace and international law created in the .after­ knows is when and how it will end". ' math of the defeat of the Rtscist and Nazi forces in the Second World War. ed 143. It particularly pleases the delegation of Cub

~T--~-'··~ ------~------~----~~---..., .. ------~------'. ,'~Jii_ _...i' ~. ~' ;.w-,,:W:-''blL~'';;'',.~w.-..,..;~~~_ ...~Jltti.\:J:~~:;;;'<. ~iIIiIlIl __ General Assembly-Thirty.sixt~Session-Plenary Meetings "The United States system is not Fascist, but I am pIe are 'employed today by Begin against tlie heroic Pal- firmly. convinced that the group constituting the main estinian people. . core of the current United States Administration is Fas­ cist. its thinking is Fascist; its arrogant rejection of 158. We are certain that the heroic struggle being waged every human rights policy is Fascist; its foreign policy by the Palestinian people, led by the PLO, its sole legiti­ is' Pclscist; its contempt for world peace is Fascist; its mate representative, will be victorious and that nothing in.traJlsigent refusal to seek formulas for honourable co­ can prevent that people from establishing its own indepen­ existence among States is Fascist; its arrogance, its dent State in acc,,~rdance with its inalienable rights. conceit, its arms build-up, its pursuit of military superi­ ority at all costs, its relish of violence and domination, Hi9. The bombings of Lebanon, the aggression against its methods of blackmail and terror; its alliance with the peaceful nuclear research, centre in Iraq, a deed un­ Pinochet and with the most brutal regimes of this hemi­ precedented in peacetime, the threats against the Syri~ sphere, whose methods of repression, terror, torture and Arab Republic and Jordan-events which have all taken disappearances have taken the lives of tens of thou­ place in the few short· months since t}le inaugurat.ion of , sands of people, often without their relatives even -th.e new Yankee Administration-these are indic,atio¥ts of knowing where their bodies lie; and its shameless al­ -the consequences of the strategic agreement recently con- liance with South Africa and apartheid are clearly Fas­ ct.uded in Washington by Reagan and Begin, aimed at cist; its threalening language and its lies are Fascist. confirming the role of Israel as a pivot of Yankee world Never willl say that the people of the United States are strategy. Fascist, nor'their legislative institutions, nor their press, nor their many creative social organizations, nor their 160.' In the Caribbean and Central America, the United strongly enduring, noble democratic conditions and States; in addition to using bacteriological methods love of freedom. against the population, the crops and the cattle in Cuba and giving the green light to the CIA to renew and step "Our hopes are founded on the convL: m that fas­ up its plots against the lives of the main leaders. of the cism can succeed neither in the United States nor in the Cuban Revolution and its subversive and destabilizing ac­ world,. although it is true that at present a Fascist lead­ tions, has intensified its interventionist and genocidal acts ership has established itself in the United States over in El Salvador, arming and advising a terrorist Govern­ the structure of an imperialist bourgeois democracy; ment that has murdered over 20,000 children of that noble and this is extremely dangerous." and heroic people.

154. The results of the actions of the current United 161. Through its vast propaganda machinery, Yankee States Administration have already been felt in all their imperialism, resorting systematically to the most brazen severity in southern Africa, in the Middle East and in the and shameless lies, accuses Cuba of being the cause of Caribbean, among other regions. Who can deny that the instability in Central. America. It is not Cuba but South Africa dared to attack Angola because it is certain Yan~ee imperialism that has imposed and protected un­ of support from the United States? " popular and obnoxious Governments whose only virtue has been to protect the system of ecoqomic exploitation of 155. The visit of Under-Secretary Crocker to South Af­ the peoples of the region. It is imperialism, with its.direct rica and the meeting between Reagan .and Botha, which or indirect military intervention through reactionary, re­ received such widespread publicity in the United States, gimes, which must assume the responsibility for the ab­ as well as the statements rej~cting the defence of human sence of peace in Central America. rights and the marked interest in making the Pretoria ra- . cists feei they are part of a strategic alliance with the 162. The Government of Cuba has publicly denied that United States, made it possible for them to step up their some of the weapons delivered to it by the Soviet Union military and subversive actions against the front-line are being redistributed in Central America. It has af­ States and particularly against Angola and Mozambique. fInned that it is a lie to say that Cuba is supplying an.y other weapons or ammunition to the Salvadoran Pltriots 156. Who can deny that the United States veto of the and that there are or have been Cuban advisers in Ei Sal­ condemnation ef the aggressors against Angola and of vador. These are the facts and, as facts; they are irrefuta­ sanctions against them constitutes proof of its encourage­ ble, which .does riot imply' eith~r a commitment or a ment and support of the illegal and hateful apartheid re­ moral judgement on the right to give military 9id ~J the gime? The aggression against Angola seeks to extend forces struggling in El Salvador against the junta, forces apartheid's frontiers. It is an aggression not only against whose political representativ(}ness has been recognized by An~ola but against the whole of black Africa and es­ ftance and Mexico and has just been proclaimed, by an peCially against the countries of southern Africa. The ra­ overwhelming vote, by the countries participating in the cists must withdraw from southern Angola and stop their 68th Inter-Parliamentary Conference. acts of hostility against the rest of the front-line States. 163. What is not a lie and cannot be denied by the 157. Israel is another fundamental link in the strategic United States leaders is that military and police ~dvisers alliance advocated by Washington. As in' the caSe of Pre­ from the Governments of the United States and Venezuela toria, the Zionist authorities felt that, with Reagan's ac­ are training the genocidal forces of the Christian.Demo- . cession to the White House~ their finest hour had arrived cratic Junta of Er Salvador; that the Salvadoran military is and they decided to. take advantage of it promptly. The being taught the, techniques of repression by Pinochet's Zionists' main objective is still the same: the genocide of Fascists in Chile; and that it is with Yankee helicopters; the Pdlestinian people and its disappearance as a nation. Yankee airctaft, Yankee weapons and Yankee bullets that The., Nazi· methods suffered yesterday by the Hebrew peo- the Salvadoran people are being murdered. .

.~,.,." -~----_ - <.,.,...._------_... ..-

~_.,------'------'--'~-~----~---~._---~-'-'------.-~.----- / I' \ I

12th meeting-24 September 1981 164. In a cry for justice based on the principles of inter­ 172. Cuba supports the Govef!lment and the people of national law and the interests of the nations and peoples Panama in its struggle for the implementation of the of the world in search of peaceful solutions to the hotbeds agreements on the Canal and supports the Guatemalan of tension that poison the international atmosphere, the people, which has risen up in arms against the cruel ty­ Governments of Mexico and France agreed to recognize ranny imposed on it since the United States intervention the representativeness of the patriots of the Natio~al Liber­ of 1954. . ation Front and (he Democratic Revolutionary Front, thus trying to reach a negotiated and political solution to this 173. Cuba likewise supports the efforts of the people of bloody drama. Showing its real intervel1tionist intents and Cyprus to preserve its independence, sovereignty and ter­ purposes, the United States reacted violently against the ritorial integrity as a united and non-aligned republic. Franco-Mexican initiative and, using its allies in the Gov­ ernment of Venezuela, compelled these pseudo-democrats 174. In South-East Asia, we believe that only a negoti­ to join the worst tyrannies of the continent in a condem­ ated solution can put. an end to the existing tensions. ~a~"ry statement. Pinochet, Stroessner, Herrera Campins, Cuba has fully supported the proposals of Viet Nam, ail in the, same bag, with Reagan leading them by the La~s and Kampuchea to hold a regional conference for hand, are trying to obstruct the search for a negotiated that purpose, with the participation of the other States of and political settlement to the civil war in El Salvador. the region. At the same time, we emphasize our unswerv­ ing recognition of the sole legitimate representative of the 165. We whole-heartedly hail Belize's accession to inde­ Kampuchean people: the People's Government of Kam­ pendence after a long struggle to thwart the annexationist puchea. intentions of the oppressors of the Guatemalan people and we are pleased to see that in a few hours, Belize will 175. As Chairman of the movement of non-aligned become a full Member of the United Nations. countries, Cuba has lent its good offices-and today re­ news its willingnesfi to continue to do so-in the search for a negotiated political solution to the situation in 166. In Puerto Ric('! the clamour for an end to that is­ South-West Asia. Such a solution should, in our opinion, statu~, land's colonial is increasing. The vast majority of entail the end of intervention and interference in the Dem­ the Puerto Rican political organizations, not'only those ocratic Republic of Afghanistan, together with the neces­ seeking independence, demand that the General Assembly thirt~'"seventh sary international guarantees, and the creation of condi­ consider Puerto Rico's case at its session, tions permitting the normalization of relations among all as was appmved at the recently concluded session of the States in·the area on the basis of the principles and pur­ deco!iJnization Committee. Cuba supports the right of this poses of non-alignment. brother people to independence and is sure that, in the fulfilment of its obligations, the Assembly will not deny 176. The second special session of the General Assem­ to the Puerto Rican people the right to have its tragic bly devoted to disarmament will be held in 1982. We all situation considered. remember that, at the time of the first special session, the heads of State of the countries of the North Atlantic 167. Cuba has always supported the legitimate aspira­ Treaty Organization [NATO] met in Washington and, un­ tion of the Argentine people to see the Malvinas Islands der pressure from the United States Government, pro­ come under their national sovereignty, as well as the just claimed their n~adiness to increase their arsenals. This in­ demand of the Bolivian people to have an outlet to the auspicious sign allowed us to foresee that progress in the sea. implementation of the decisions adopted by the tenth spe­ cial session of the General Assembly would be meagre. 168. We also support the right of the people of East Since then, the United States has continued to take. steps Timor to self-determination. to achieve military superiority, although it becomes clearer every day that its NATO partners are resisting this 169. In Western Sahara, the Sahraoui people has Yankee pressure for political and economic reasons. through its heroism earned the respect and admiration of the whole world. We support its unshakable will to 177. The increase of war expenditures to unprecedented achieve self-determination and independence. levels, the reduction of the budget for social expenses, applying the painful practice of less butter and more guns, the creation of rapid deployment forces, the deci­ 170. As a consequence of colonialism, Mayotte has sion to install 572 medium-range missiles in Europe, the been artificially withdrawn from Comorian sovereignty production of the neutron bomb and of the MX missile and Madagascar has not yet recovered its rights over the system, the increase in the number of nuclear aircraft car­ Malagasy islands of Glorieuses, Juan de Nova, Europa riers and Trident submarines, the reactivation of large war­ and Bassas da India. We trust that the speediest solution ships, all are actions which serve to unleash an arms race can be found for these anachronistic situations. whose end is impossible. to predict.,

171. Just as the self-determination of a people cannot be 178. We are sure that the United States will try its prevented, so a nation cannot be kept artificially divided. utmost to prevent the convening of the forthcoming spe­ The presence in and virtual occupation of South Korea by cial session devoted to disarmament. Even if it is held, the United States prevents peaceful reunific~tion and the the prospects for United States co-operation and contribu- end of foreign interference in Korea. The Korean people tion to its success are dim. . has built a prosperous and happy countryiti.the north under the leadership of its President, Kim Il Sung, and is 179. In June of this year, the People's National Assem­ imbued with the noblest ideals of reunification of the di­ bly of Cuba expressed its strong and resolute support for vided homeland. the appeal made by the Supreme Soviet of the Soviet 208 General Assembly-Thirty-sixth Session-Plenary Meetings I Union to all parliaments and peoples of the world con­ counmes trom fulfilling their obligations to the develop­ cerning the critical international situation, aggravated as it ing countries? No, these have not been the causes of the I has been by the dangerous increase in the arms race. It failure of the international economic negotiations.' This was reiterated in that decision that "peace is essential in failure has stemmed and still stems from the narrow and I the struggle for deyelopment, since the struggle for peace intransigent policies and practices of a group of developed I is tantamount to the struggle for development and implies capitalist countries which, headed by' the United States, :I I the uprooting of the deep inequalities still extant as a re­ persist in maintaining the privileges and bonuses they ! sult of colonial and neo-colonial domination, racial dis­ have enjoyed for centuries in their relations with the de­ I crimiJfation, racism, zionism and apartheid". veloping countries at the expense of the exploitation and poverty of the latter. I 180. The non-aligned countries, who took the initiative to convene the forthcoming special session, will strive for 187. Never before in the history of mankind have the J i the success of this new session of the Assembly. Cuba underdeveloped countries seen themselves submitted to j promises to contribute to that cause and hopes that that such merciless exploitation and such a marked econOl).lic session will become a battleground for universal peace penetration as at the present time. The leaders of the de­ and the renewal of detente. veloped capitalist countries have' endeavoured to transfer to the developing countries the effects of the crisis gener­ I import~t ated by their own structures. The dependency of the de­ 181. My delegation also supports the provosal ,! I' submitted to the Assembly by the Soviet Union on the veloping countries on the economies of the western , I prevention of a nuclear catastrophe through a solemn metropolises has increased to an unprecedented level, commitment by all States possessing nuclear weapons, through the spiral of external debt, through the continued and their leaders, not to be the first to use them in case of generation and exacerbation of unfair trade flows, through conflict. limiting the access of the third-world countries to the mar": I kets of the world and to the technology and the resources ,~ 182. I should like now to refer to one of the most trans­ available to the capitalist West, through the preservation i cendental problems confronting the world today, namely, of unfair and disorderly international monetary relations, the international -economic situation. and through promoting in the economies of the countries ! of the developing world an increasing penetration by ! 183. Cuba has upheld and upholds the view that peace transnational corporations, which add iniquitous financial ,)1 and development are indivisible elements of international profits to practices and policies harmful to the sov­ ! relations. We can talk about peace, disarmament and in­ ereignty, stabi!ity and integrity of the countries in whic'n i ternational security; we can take action to limit arms or to they operate. ban certain weapons; but we will not really have attained 188. The policy followed~ by the Government of the an effective and lasting solution to the tensions, conflicts United States cll"!arly exemplifies what I have just stated. )I and contradictions that threaten the world until we find a The high interest rates decreed by the Reagan Administra­ 1, way of guaranteeing the complete and permanent elimina­ tion, besides being ineffective in solving the structural tion of inequality among nations through the establish­ crisis of the American economy and harming even the I ment of a new system of international relations, one that western allies of the United States, impose a new and I will allow the beginning of a just and equitable new inter­ heavy burden on the underdeveloped countries, raising to t national economic order. unsuspected heights the already unbearable cost of servic­ t ing their colossal debts. Furthermore, the United States, ~ 184. The situation now facing the majority of the devel­ advocates as a policy a considerable increase of foreign 1 oping countries is not new; it has been progressively ~or private investments in the developing countries as a sort deteriorating more than 20 years. However, now, in of magic wand to solve their economic problems. the middle of the greatest crisis that the capitalist system I ·1 has suffered in the post-war period, that deterioration has 189. Nothing could be further from the truth, as the fol­ 1,, become increasingly swift and far-reaching. lowing figures show: between 1970 and 1978, United :~ States investments in the third world reached a total of 185. The international agencies, and in particular the $8.7 billion, while in the same period the profits of that ~I ones belonging to the United Nations system, have out­ country from those investments were of the order of some lined innumerable plans, adopted many resolutions and $39.7 billion, representing a profit of $4.5 on each newly convened several conferences to deal with the problems of invested dollar. economic and social development. In all of them, the I problems which afflict the countries of the so-called third 190. These dollars, then, contribute nothing towards world have been clearly identified, and in some of them paying the debts of the countries of the developing world; measures have been suggested which, although they do they do nothing to help feed the hungry, cure the sick, not fUlly solve these problems, would certainly contribute educate the illiterate or give work to th~ unemployed. to lessening their effects. However, in spite of the efforts Their sole use is to fill the bottomless vaults of the trans­ made, these ideas and initiatives have not made it possi­ national corporations and the Federal Gcvernment of the ble to advance towards a real restructuring of international United States. relations. . 191. Is that the way to fight underdevelopment and all 186. HaS this perhaps been because of the incapacity of its consequences? No. Actually, that is an inverse transfer the international organizations involved or the negligence of resources, from the developing countries to the devel­ of the developing countries, for whom the effective im­ oped market economy countries, the effect of which is plementation of a new international economic order is a the ever-increasing enrichment of opulent societies and the matter of life and death, or because of the shortage of increasing~y abject poverty of the underdeveloped coun- resources at a global level which prevents the developed tries! .

.' _'-1..._r.-...... -- ''C'" '::-\ ' :<··~t·J .' i -~ ~ ;> 1;£ j r -;.\ j" -. \

t 12th meeting-24 September 1981 _209 I 192•. IhuS, there are~t(X1ay in the developing world 570 peace without yielding an inch, backr.d by the mobil­ e million 'undernourished people, 800 million illiterate ization of the peoples, including those of the Uni,led s adults, 1.5 billion 'people with no access to medical care, States, and by the immense power of world opinion and d I 1.3 billion people with a yearly income of less than $90, the universal conscience, as shown during Viet Nam's d 1.7 billion with a life expectancy of less than 60 years, heroic struggle; by the current correlation of forces be­ I, \ 1,030 million living in inadequate housing, 250 million tween socialism and imperialism, which the latter y children who do not attend any school and 1.1 billion vainly seeks to tilt in its favour; by the people's capac­ :- unemployed. And this situation is not improving; it is de­ ity and determination to fight and resist any imperialist d I \ teriorating. aggression; by international solidarity, which can and should be expressed in a thousand different new 193. At the thirty-fourth session of the General Assem­ ways." le 1 I bly, in October 1979 [31st meeting], Commander-in-Chief :0 i le Fidel Castro, President of the Council of State and the 199. Mr. PEREZ LLORCA (Spaiq) (interpretation from :- I Council Ministers of Cuba and Chairman of the move­ Spanish): The time-honoured practice of congratulating ment of non-aligned countries, presented formulas to pro­ the President of the General Assembly and expressing :r 1 r- vide a solution to the unfair situation of the under­ great satisfaction at his election is in this instance easy to

~- . developed countries. _In addition to the cancellation of the do, for the Assembly is presided over by a most dis­ n external debt of the least developed countries, he pro­ tinguished person, the representative of Iraq, a country I, I posed the establishment of an additional fund of not less with which Spain has enjoyed and continues to enjoy :d than $300 billion, at 1977 real value, to be distributed close relations. :h I from the first years in annual sums of not less than $25 rO: billion. This aid should be in the form of donations and 200. I must also thank Mr. von Wechmar for the skill ~s I long-term, low-interest soft credits, and other forms of and effectiveness with which he conducted the business of i ID ~ participation. the last session of the General Assembly, thanks to his s, personal attributes and those of his country. 194. The real implementa!ion of this proposal would in­ ~s Ij I deed represent-in spite of the self-seeking doubts of 201. My gratitude goes also to the Secretary-General, i those who characterize it as unrealistic-benefits for the who directs the work of the Secretariat so skilfully, so ')1 underdeveloped countries and. a true contribution to the appropriately and with such tenacity, giving it the neces­ ! eradication of poverty, illiteracy, unsanitary conditions sary stimulus. and other consequences of underdevelopment, which have been aggravated by the crises of the capitalist structures. 202. I W13h too to welcome Vanuatu, a new Member he However, in order to carry out a significant battle against whose admission will strengthen the universality of the Id. 1 underdevelopment, it is essential to have an international Organization. t} 'li­ political climate governed by peare, detente and full re­ ral I spect for the security of all. 203. It is with satisfaction that we see that the State of he Belize will soon join us. We share the most ancient his­ nd 195. For these reasons we must oppose the arms race, torical roots with Belize, and we wish it in its indepen­ to the manufacture of neutron bombs, the deployment of the dence a prosperous peace in union with its neighbours. ic­ 572 medium-range missiles in Europe, the production of tes, Ii the MX missile systems at a cost of tens of billions of 204. In order to establish the Spanish position before t gn l dollars, of new strategic bombers, of nuclear aircraft car­ the Assembly I must base myself on two tenets of analy­ j ort II riers, of Trident submarines, the reactivation of big war­ sis and action. One is the unequivocal option of Spain in I ! i t ships from the Second World War, the investment of favour of a Euro-Western political concept, certain that i\ $1,500,900,000,000, in military expenditures in the next the pluralistic democratic system, which is its ethical ref­ 01­ \ '. l -I five years, and the greatest arms race in history, as en­ erence, has greater social flexibility and a greater capacity ted gineered by the United States. for adaptation to the needs and requirements of peoples. of This is an indivisible process, both in the field of convic­ hat 196. These enormous military expenditures, which can tions and in the practical field of their internal and inter­ me only serve to aggravate the world economic crisis, will national institutionalization. The Spanish State is ready to ~Iy I have negative repercussions on the living and working accept the consequences thereof. ;~ conditions of the working class and can only lead man­ kind to an unprecedented catastrophe. 205. As I said last year, the form our democracy has rds chosen to take to exercise the right to defend the mainte­ rid; 197. The threat of war is real. It is no secret that the nance of international peace and security-as an inher­ ek, ently Spanish decision-does not allow of any inter-. ed. brazen,adventunst policy of the imperialist Government of the United States has pushed the world to the brink of ference without serious infringement of the fundamental.­ IDS­ the abyss. rules of international law and the very principles of the the I .J Charter of the United Nations. ! \ 198. As was stated by President Fidel Castro in his , .. ( o~nipg .. sp~ecb to the 68th Inter-Parliamentary Con­ 206. We are sure that the Members of the United Na­ all ference: tions, with all of which we wish to have peaceful and sfer cordial relations, will not attempt any interference­ vei­ ~·We. must face these real dangers serenely and cou­ which would be intolerable-or any confused and base­ l is rageously. We cannot afford to be pessiIllistic, for then less conjectures. Spain is not, nor does it wish to be, a the the battle for peace would be lost beforenand. We can­ threat to anyone. On the contrary, in any forum in which lun- not be cowardly, for then dignity as well as peace it participates it will maintain a constant position of would be lost beforehand. We can and shoul'd preserve striving for real peace. . '''W.,"""""I .~ ~..,c~ ...... J".]; . • L . I~ I\ fr

....' '\ 1

210 General Assembly-Thirty-sixth Session-Plenary Meetings 207. The second tenet concerns credibility. In this re­ is an essential feature of our foreign 'policy. It is nota gard Spain has in the United Nations shown undeniable policy that was adopted simply because there was no al­ consistency, as is easily verifiable. On the questions of ternative, but a policy that was selected and given prefer- the Middle East, Lebanon and Palestine, the Sahara, ence over all others. .. apartheid, Namibia, human rights, terrorism, the battle against racial discrimination and intolerance, peace-keep­ 215. We are at a stage when everybody has become ingpperations, the crises of Afghanistan and Kampuchea aware of the' duty to increase, specific projects,;·establish anE!:the Cypriot conflict, and on matters of disarmament machinery to make them effective and, to the common ano'bevelopment, the attitude of the Spanish democracy benefit, give new life to our ancient ties. We have to give has remained constant. new energy to this· relationship, which has gone through periods of rhetorical inaction imposed by certain historical 208. In these difficult times, in which peace is pre­ circumstances; carious, Spain has responded from positions of principle, has entirely resisted the pressures coming from interested 216. We can only regret that some Central American parties arid has clung to an independent foreign policy countries have suffered cruel afflictions in the social conditional only upon the interests of the Spanish people sphere. Those peoples have the solution in their own and L1e desire for co-operation in establishing a more just hands, and any interference can only complicate the inter­ and harmonious international .order. mil situation, which ;is causedoy: necessary'changes. i'\ Spain feels the tragedy of those brother peoples deeply, 209. Special and immediate reference must be made to and it is as if it were ourselves who were undergoing it. the Conference on Security and Co-operation in Europe, which after 10 months has postponed its Madrid meeting 217. Spain reaffirms' as one of the objectives of its pres­ until next October. Spain has a dual role as host and par­ ent foreign policy its intention to multiply and diversify ticipant. As host, we are ready to receive the Conference its relationship with African countries. Our attitude will in Madrid with the same satisfaction as before. As one of be based, bilaterally and in the sphere of parliamentary the 35 participating States, we shall redouble our efforts diplomacy, on decisive S\lpport for efforts to put an·end in favour of.security and peace. to colonialism, apartheid and racial discrimination, and to co-operate, as far as we are able, in the socio-economic 210. We must revive the poEtical decision to negotiate development of that neighbour continent. and recommence meetings with 8', new impetus and a willingness to resolve the .major problems of human 218. Our geographical position places us in contact with rights, information and the military aspects of security; the Arab coast ofthe Mediterranean and in a'very.close relationship with western Africa. We can see the reality of 211. The Madrid declaration must develop the principles those two worlds without interference and we have justifi­ of the Final Act of Helsinki and fulfil its ambitious objec­ able hope that the Euro-Arab and Euro-African dialogue, tives to improve the international climate, without illu-' in which we shall participate increasingly as time goes by, sions or complacency, which would be extremely dan­ will bring. about new forms of effective f:o-operation. gerous. Thus shall we contribute to the revitalization in Europe of peace and security, which are constantly in 219. Because of our closeness to and our particular in­ question. terest in anything that affects the Arab nation, we con­ tinue to attach special importance to the situation in the 212. I already had occasion at the last session [4th Maghreb. We hope that as soon as pOssible terision be­ meeting, para. 138] to say that through the Lisbon Decla­ tween brother countries will disappear and that there will ration, adopted in April 1980,9 the Spanish and British be an understanding that will allow for the development Governments have taken an important step forward, how­ of inter-Maghreb relations, which would benefit greatly ever preliminary, towards resolving the conflict between the peace and prosperity of all. . Spain and the United Kingdom concerning the colonial situation of Gibraltar. I said then. that we were dealing 220. We have never failed to· avail ourselves of· this op­ with a task that was not easy and events have borne that portunity in the United Nations to stress the concern and out, although it is important to maintain the convergence attention demanded by the question of Western' Sahara. of political wills and to be ready to embark upon a path Our position has been characterized by unswerving firm­ which may finaHy Iead"to settlement of the dispute, so ness of principle and support for a solution based on an that there will never again be any obstacle between Spain agreement accepted by all the parties, which should take and the United Kingdom. into account the principles and recommendations put for­ ward by international bodies, and in particUlar the ex­ 213. The United Nations has shown the path to follow, pression of the.will of the people. as is recognized in the joint Lisbon Declaration, which states that both parties have committed themselves to re­ 221. The Spanish Governtnent favoured ·the initiative solving the problem of Gib~'altar in a spirit of friendship taken by His Majesty King Hassan II of Morocco'·at'the in accordance with the relevant resolutions of the United Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the Or­ Nations. ganization of African Unity in Nairobi, when he sup­ ported the idea of the referendum referred to in resolution 214. Spain's relations with the peoples of Latin America AHG/Res.l03· (XVIII) [see A/36/534, annex Il] and the are at a propitious stage. In the foreign policy of demo­ implementation of recommendations made by' the Afric~n cratic Spain the close links of history, background and Heads of State who are members of the Ad Hoc Commlt­ language are an element that strengthens our decision to tee. That is a matter of capital importance which gives find new means of drawing closer to the American contin­ grounds for fresh hope with respect to finding a just solu­ ent and co-operating with its "peoples. That relationship tion by peaceful means, within the terms of recent com-

l' .' ...." ~-_...... _--...._-----~_ .. i····

12th meetlng-24 September 1981 211 ota mitments entered intQ ,at the meetings of the Organization 229. In Lebanon the tension curve is reaching new • al­ of African Unity [OAU] • heights. There are various factors in that country'which ~fer- • set the zone alight and threaten the integrity and very ex­ 222. Our policy of co-operation acquires special impor­ istence of the country. In the Security Council, Spain ex­ tance with reference to the Republic of Equatorial Guinea. erted every effort in support of the establishment of a ome Our action will always be guided by the principle of non­ cease-fire, after which the position could be stabilized )lish interference and by the desire to see Equatorial Guinea and an impetus given to national reconciliation, preserv­ mon regain its rightful place in the regional context of the Af­ ing the independence, national integrity and sovereignty give rican community. We are prepared to strengthen our co­ of Lebanon under the authority of its legitimately estab­ mgh operation with the people of Equatorial Guinea and its lished Government. .The work of UNIFIL, to which I rical Government to the extent that that Government freely de­ wish to pay a well-deserved tribute, must be extended and sires. We feel that during this past year a broad network strengthened as much as necessary to make it more effec­ of co-operation has been put into effect and consolidated, tive. It should be fully supported so that it may be re­ .1can which will give impetus, within the general framework of spected by all the parties to the conflict. ocial economic regeneration, to the national reconstruction of own Equatorial Guinea. 230. It is necessary to put an end to armed actions nter­ which continually endanger an unstable truce. The Span­ 1ges. 223.: The· independence of Namibia is almost within ish Government, on learning of the attack carried out by eply, reach. The Namibian people has a right to self-detennina­ the Israeli air force against the nuclear research facility in .g it. tion and immediate sovereignty over all its territory. The Iraq, issued a communique strongly condemning that in­ Spanish Government feels that only through the imple­ admissible act of force, which was a serious violation of pres­ mentation without let or hindrance of the plan set forth in the basic rules of international law. The Security Council :rsify Security Council resolutions 435 (1978) and 439 (1978) condemned that action in resolution 487 (1981), consider­ will can any progress by made on this matter. We must tnlst ing that Iraq has a right to proper compensation for ntary that the efforts being made at this very moment will lead damage which Israel has admitted causing. Spain hopes lend to the resumption of the negotiating process and to that Israel will carry out the obligations which it bears as nd to Namibian independence. a Member of the Organization under Article 25 of the omic Charter and wHl respect that resolution. Spain, as it said 224. Perseverance is necessary in these endeavours, and again in the Security Council, also recognizes the sov­ the South African Government must be required to desist ereign and inalienable right of all .States-including with from ,any further counterprOductive delaying tactics and Iraq-to establish technological and nuclear progi:ammes close from its indescribable acts of intimidation. Incursions into for peaceful purposes. ityof bordering countries are acts of force, in violation of the lstifi­ basic rules of international law, and simply increase the 231. The Spanish Government is still firmly con­ ogue, danger of global confrontations. vinced-and this conviction seemS to have been shared ~s by, by the States who attended the meeting in Venice in 1980 n. 225. In this regard, the work carried out by the United of the European Council of the European Communities­ Nations Council for Namibia should be commended. Dur­ that the Middle East conflict cannot be understood or 1 lU' in- ing t ne visit of that council to Spail\ a few months ago, solved without the participation of the Palestinian peopie. con­ we ',:/ere able to appreciate the similarity of our positions n the with respect to the past and t.he future of Namibia, in 232. This year the situation has simply worsenl~d, for n 00­ particular with regard to recognition of the legitimacy of pea<:e cannot be envisaged as long as the legitimate na­ ~ will the representation conferred by the United Nations on tional rights of the Palestinian people are not recognized. )ment SWAPO in its struggle, for freedom and independence. The illegal settlements in the occupied territories, con­ reatly tinue, maki!1g any prospect of a solution difficult. A plol­ 226. With respect to apattfleid, we must repeat our total itical negotiating m~hjnery must be set up Whereby Is­ rejection of the policy as a violation of human rights and, rael and the Palestinian people can both be represented is op­ indeed, as an affront to man's reason. The existence of and where they can mutually accept each other as valid nand apartheid isa tragedy which is felt anew every day .and it negotiators. The legitimate representative of the Pales­ Ihara.· is a blight on all mankind. . tinian people, as many General Assembly resolutions firm­ show, is the PLO. . on an 227. Con~erning. ,this question and the tn';Jic situation of I take refugees$ Spain has mIcen part in two conferences organ­ 233. An over-all agreement must be reached by which, It for­ ized jointly by the United Nations and the OAU; one, based on the premise of the withdrawal from all Arab ie ex- the International Conference on Assistance to Refugees in territories occupied since 1967, the enforcement of Pal­ Africa, held at peneva, and the other. the International estinian national rights would be obtained through self­ Conference on Sanctions against South Africa, held in determination. That would allow all present and future tiative Paris..We believe that co-operation among international States in the region to achieve peace within safe andrec­ at·the orgaJ)i.zations is a productive means of international ac­ ognized frontiers. Only within such a framework will it le Or­ tion. S.uch co-operation has proved effective in both be possible to achieve the coexistence and co-operation : sup­ ca~es, .apartheid and assistance to African refugees. we would all like to see as a tangible reality. .lution Id the 228. With respect to the Middle East, almost everything 234. In this respect, as I have had occasion to point out, frican possible has been said in the past 33 years. Today more it is our view that the plan for a just and global peace, mmit- than ever we are aware that this is not a knot that can be recently put forward by His Highness Crown PrinceFahd gives cut.with a,sword. Unfortunately, in the cOurse of the past of Saudi Arabia,lo is a very positive contribution which t solu­ 12 months force has again been used, in disiegard of rea~ must be given the consideration it deserves. These pro­ : com- wn. . posals are based on principles and criteria put forward in ·t "

212 General Assembly-Thirty-sixth Session-Plenary Meetings I' i the Organization on many occasions, and Spain has re­ rules of international conduct, that such violation is a peatedly supported them. As long as the political road is cause of instability and international insecurity and that barred for the Palestinian people, we can never have all such acts are to be condemned. All those premises are Ii peace. supplemented by the unavoid~ble demand for an objective appraisal and determination of violations of human rights. 11 235. As for Afghanistan, more than a year and a half This is a viewpoint which does not allow of any blind ag~Soviet aggression was perpetrated against t~le Afghan spots. This is not an asymmetrical concept which can be 1I ~P)e, an act of aggression which has resulted 10 the loss applied in one continent and not another at will, or in of many lives, the destruction of the country and the in­ order to take advantage of the distress of people whenev~r ! ability of the inhabitants freely to choose thoir political it can be used for some monstrous reason of State.' 'I structures. Almost two years after the invasion there is no Human rights are the basis and cement of the social har­ glimmer of a solution to that foreign armed intervention, mony and peace of States, and global defence of those I1I which we have repeatedly condemned. We therefore feel rights is the irrevocable gain of contemporary human cul­ , that international pressure in favou.r of Afghan liberation ture, the importance of which is such that it makes it ~ should be kept up. possible to define limits in respect of the internal sphere :~ of the State. :~ 236. We fully support the resolutions of the General As­ j sembly conceJlling the need for the withdrawal of Soviet 240. Based on these convictions, Spahish demOCratIc troops and the re-establishment of Afghanistan as a coun­ pluralism will require of itself and .others the same scru­ ~ free from foreign domination, as the basis for a just pulous respect for human"'rights, convinced that the civi­ solution that would make it possible for the Afghan peo­ lized survival of the human race demands ~t. Spain will ple to recover their independence and freely, decide their support the establishment of machinery that 'NiIl make it own future. In this respect, we support the resolutions of possible to control and, in the final analysis, Pi':··\'·~nt vio­ the Islamic Conference [A/36/42i and Corr.i, annex Ill, lations of human rights, without territorial or i<1eulogical the proposals of the European Community·· and the joint selection or discrimination. . communique issued by the participants at the Ottawa - Summit. 12 We also deplore the attitude of the Soviet 241. Terrorism, which is a violation of the right to life, Union towards those efforts by the international commu­ is the most brutual violation of human rights. The terror­ nity, as well as the threat to peace and security in the ist act which shamefully deprives innocent people of their region and indeed throughout the world represented by life or· threatens the' vital security of a community by that attitude. bloodshed cannot be justified. The consequences for.inter­ national order are clear: w~ cannot compromise with ter­ 237. Kampuchea is another problem for which a solu­ rorists without. endangering" peace. No one can claim to tion seems no closer than it was last year. It is quite true be persecuted for political reasons-an allegation all too that the International Conference on Kampuchea was held . often made by the terrorist-if that person is free. in a recently as requested by the General Assembly last year free political society. Wherever political change can be in resolUtion 35/6, and Spain took part in it. But it may seught without risk through regular elections allowing also be noted that not every party to the dispute attended free expression of every option, none can claim to be per­ the Conference, nor was a joint plan to settle the problem secuted for political reasons. There are no political of­ agreed to. The Cambodian people are still victims of mili­ fenders in a real democracy: if it is a democracy they do tary occupation and violence. We will spare no effort to not exist; if they exist it is not a democracy. contribute to any valid solution, any approach allowing Kampuchea to be free and to live in peace and recogniz­ 242. It is abnormal to impose by force a non-existent ing the sovereignty of its people, its independence and its and brutal 'right' to kill and to seek protection outside territorial integrity. . one's borders, claiming that political freedom is needed when it already exists. Mr. Kittani (Iraq) resumed the Chair. 243. Spain, like so many other European countries, is 238. One of the basic factors on which peace through­ suffering from terrorism and has a legitimate interest in out the world depends is respect for human rights. Since fighting for its ~radication. But it is not only a desire for 1948, when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights selfish security that makes us consider that international .was adopted, we have had a -legal model which makes it action against terrorism is called for. Peace and interna­ possible to compare international conduct, and enough tional security are directly affected. We do'not live alone time has passed since then to set up additional machinery and the instability of anyone member can result in in­ to safeguard such rights and to control any violations. stability for others. We must consider, as we have pro­ Democratic Spain has signed and ratified the International posed in the European region-both in the Council of Eu­ Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and rope and in the Conference on Security and Co-operation the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights in Europe-concrete measures that will effectively ex­ [General Assembly resolution 2200A (XXI). annex]. A press the solidarity of the democratic States against terror­ few months ago, within a regional framework, we took ism, racism and totalitarian ideologies. I' yet another step and in the Council of Europe, made a statement of acceptance of the individual recourse 'pro­ 244. In the spring of 1982 there will be a second special vided for in article 25 of the European Convention for the session of the General Assembly devoted to disarmament. Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, The decade of the 1980s has been declared, most appro­ signed in Rome on 4 November 1950. priately at this time, the 'Second Disarmament DecaCle'. However, there is undoubtedly some feeling that too many 239. We base ourselves on the principle that any vio­ words' have been wasted on this subject. It is plain that lation of human rights by a S!ate is a violation of the the world is rearming and tha~ the arms escalation is con-

.' .."/----_...._---.._------! i' \. '

12th meeting-24 September 1981 213 tinuing.Fresh coniHcts break OUt, tresn invaSiOns and ac~ State sovereignty and jurisdiction and that will real­ is a 'I of aggression, which do not augur well for any reduction istically and effective1.y develop. the universally accepted I that in the stockpiling and production of war material-far principle of the common heritage of mankind for the ex­ ~s are from it. Promises of disarmament are belied by statistics, ploitation of the resources of the sea-bed beyond the limits ective and even public proposals for disarmament are merely a of national jurisdiction. ights. smokescreen for very different measures. blind 251. The Organization, which by reason of its univer­ an be 245. The Spanish Government is ready to help ensure sality of membership and functions accepts and deals with or in that the second special session of the General Assembly every conflict, has-RS do its Members-a double duty: ~never ~ devoted to disarmament will have real meaning and to fight for human freedom and to seek peace among peo­ State. achieve results, opening the way to general and complete ples. It also has the obligation to propose solutions that 11 har­ disarmament under effective international control, cover­ are feasible today and to take action now. those i ing both nuclear and conventional weapons. It accord­ n cul­ ingly welcomes the American-Soviet talks announced to­ 252. We cannot afford to indulge in wishful thinking. I kes it I~ day. do believe, however, that a fIrm stand on questions of iphere '1", human rights, a reopening of the North-South dialogue ·1 1 246. The definition of a new international economic and of disarmament negotiations, the success of the COil­ order is based on an ethical requirement and a practical ference on Security and Co-operation in Europe and a )crat'i'c cleaning up of the many peripheral crises can all be scm­ 11 premise. A large-scale crisis cannot be avoided unless we 1 help the disinherited of the earth and contribute to their achieved through political decisions that are within the ~ civi­ I I full development. In this connection, the recently held realm of the possible. n will 1 United Nations Conference on New and Renewable . lake it !,I Sources of Energy and the United Nations Conference on 253. We are at a dangerous stage. The United Nations, It vio­ the Least Developed Countries are joint endeavours de­ as the witness of our times, must bring "all of us together ogical II signed to give new impetus to international solidarity. so that it shall not be said of the coming year, in the J' :j words of that sombre verse of a contemporary Spanish - -1 247. I should like to mention the appeal made to the poet, that "Wounded peace with its dead wings was again () life, I world and to the United Natiolls by 54 Nobel"Prlze win­ covering the world". terror­ ners, including a Spanish poet. That group of exceptional f their people called not only for cQmpassion on the part of the 254. Mr. ULLSTEN (Sweden): Mr. President, allow me ity by 11 . inter­ rich world, but also for common sense in helping those at the outset to congratulate you on your election to the l! on whom hunger and underdevelopment inflict real suffer­ high office of President of the thirty-sixth session of the th ter­ 11 ing, and who are the victims of international political and General Assembly. You bring to that office an uncom­ lim to

j> ~

1 > I > .\1:.. ·· I , .. ' !t ~'. ; \

214 General Assembly-Thirty-sixth Session-Plenary Meetings 259. The struggle of the super-Powers to recnly the per­ of the strong desire of the Nordic peoples to maintain the ceived imbalances in some areas, or to compensate for low level of tension in our part of the world: them by attempts to achieve superiority in others, leads to increased insecurity for all of us. By reason of their nu­ 266. My Government is in favour of. exploring the pos­ clear arsenals, the two super-Powers hold the fate of the sibilities of establishing a Nordic nuclear-weapon-free entire world in their hands. Therefore, every State has the zone and the conditions under which such a zone could right to demand that the super-Powers maintain a stable improve the already existing stable pattern of Nordic se­ pattern of contacts in order to avoid misunderstandings curity. As the Nordic countries do not have nuclear weap­ and ovtr-reactions. We therefore welcome the fact that the ons, such an improvement would, in the view of my Gov­ Foreign Ministers of the Soviet Union and the United ernment, have to include concessions from thf' Soviet States are using the occasion of this session of the Gen­ Union and the United States as regards nuclear weapons eral Assembly to hold bilateral meetings. relevant to the Nordic region. 260. However, we cannot rest content with the resump­ 267. So far the United States has not been willing to tion of the necessary dialogue between the two super­ consider a Nordic nuclear-weapon-free zone. Powers. We must call upon them to review and reconsider the course their global actions have taken, the most dan­ 268. The Soviet Union has suggested that it subscribes gerous dimension of which is the nuclear arms race. The to the idea. It has also hinted that it could consider con­ negotiations onrtheatre nuclear forces in Europe, which cessions relating to its own· territory. However, what has are now scheduled to begin later this year, should have been said so far has been more than vague. If we are to been commenced long ago. have a meaningful debate, further clarifications from the Soviet Union are necessary as to what concessions it has 261. Four years have passed since the Soviet Union in mind. . started deploying a new medium-range ballistic missile, the SS-20, and two years since NATO decided to install 269. World peace is not something to be discussed ex­ new medium-range nuclear missiles on West European clusively in closed sessions between the major Powers. soil. It is repot:ted that more than 300 SS-20s have al­ All States should be given the possibility of making their ready been deployed and that at least two thirds of them voices heard on matters which relate to their security and may be targeted on Western Europe. to world peace. This is. the idea behind the proposal to convene a conference on confidence- and security-build­ 262. The recent decision of the United States to produce ing measures and disarmament in Europe with the par­ the neutron weapon constitutes a further dangerous esca­ ticipation of the Soviet Union and the United States. lation of the nuclear arnlS race between the super-Powers. It is therefore high time for the super-Powers to sit down 270. Many States-not least, neutral and non-aligned at the negotiating table and agree on measures to restrain .countries in Europe-are working hard towards this goal the arms race and reduce the risk of war. No category of at the current follow-up meeting in Madrid of the Con­ weapons should be excluded from negotiations, but we ference on Security and Co-operation in Europe. urge the super-Powers in particular to resume in the near future their talks on limitations and reductions of strategiC 271. A conference on confidence-building and security­ arms. building measures and disarmament in Europe, held in successive stages, could reeult in the adoption of new 263. That demand is supported by a· wave of popular confidence-building and security-building measures as protests in Western Europe against nuclear armaments. well as progress towards limitation of nuclear and conven­ All slogans are not as unbiased as they may seem and tional weappns. Concrete, practical results of d first stage some ideas put forward may be less realistic than others, of the conference would certainly be conducive to a situa­ but in general the protests against nuclear weapons must tion where meaningful negotiations on disarmament be seen as an expression of a genuine and legitimate con­ proper in Europe could be initiated. The conference could cern about what people feel is the lunacy of the nuclear thus also promote progress towards a military balance be­ anns race and the incapacity of political leaders to do tween the two alliances at substantially lower armament anything about it. levels. 264. All human beings yearn for peace, no matter in 272. The super-Powers may have differing views on what country they live. The fact that there is no freedom many of these and other issues discussed at the Madrid of expression in some countries should not diminish the meeting, but they must not forget that the preservation of importance of popular protests in countries where such the process of the Conference on Security·and Co-opera­ freedom can be enjoyed. Nor should the fact that some tion in Europe is in their common interest. They must devote more and more attention to planning for the even­ therefore mobilize the political will for the adjustments tuality of war prevent others from dedicating themselves and compromises necessary for reaching a substantial and to planning for peace. Every region and every country, no balanced result in Madrid covering all fields of the Final matter how small, has the right and the duty to interfere Act of Helsinki. in international affairs for the sake of peace. 273. It is important that we develop the contents of the 265. In the northern region of Europe the desire to up­ Final Act of Helsinki with new initiatives. It is just as hold the vision of a more peaceful world has been re­ important that we uphold respect for the principles al­ flected in the idea of establishing a Nordic nuclear­ ready enshrined in that very Act. The Helsinki Act re­ weapon-free zone. The active discussion on this idea can affirms the right of every State to territorial integrity, be seen as an expression of strong concern over the inten­ freedom and jndepend... ~e. Any interference in the inter­ si7~ed nuclear arms race in Europe and as a demonstration nal affairs of another State, as well as any use or threat of

: I -- T _.--:---" , ,

,/ ..J

12th meeting-24 September 1981 215 I the force, is a breach ot the princIples tnal direct co-operation Arabs, the increased AmenCclIl and Soviet presence in the between the States of Europe. Indian Ocean, the arms flow to that region, the social and political unrest, the economic and strategic importance of pos- 274. These solemnly worded principles also apply to the Middle East and Gulf region-all these factors com­ -free .Poland. During the last year we have witnessed a promis­ bine to make this part of the world a powder keg. What is ould ing development towards the implementation of certain needed in that region is not more violence, not more ter­ : se- fundamental democratic rights in Poland. However, at the ror, not more bombing, not more violations of the princi­ 'eap- same time and with increasing concern, we have noted ples of the Charter of the United Nations, but more Jov- the open and brutal demands of the Soviet Union that the efforts for peace. lviet trends in Poland be turned back. We see no reason why pons an internal political process in Poland should cause its 282. The SOVlel armed intervention in Afghanistan con­ great-Power neighbour to make menacing statements. On tinues, however, in open contempt both of massive world the contrm-y, we see strong reasons why the Poles should opinion and of the Charter. The only results the Soviet g to be allowed to determine their own future without any for­ troops have achieved are increased international tension eign interference. and instability. Popular resistance to the invaders is as vigorous as ever and shows that a lasting solution of the ribes 275. The Charter of the United Nations bestows no Afghanistan problem can be found only when foreign in­ con- mandate on the great Powers to impose their will on terference has ceased. has smaller nations. On the contrary, the Charter confers :e to greater responsibilities on the great Powers as guardians of 283. In the Middle East two adversaries, Israel and the l the international peace. PLO, stand face to face. We urge them to recognize each . has 1 other hlld start negotiating for peace. This is to say that I 276. Regional conflicts throughout the world can easily the PLO must recognize Israel's right to exist within se­ SUpek~Powers !1 escalate to a confrontation between the and cure and recognized boundaries. This is also to say that I ex- I Israel must recognize the legitimate national rights of the 1 become a threat to world peace. verso ; I Palestinians, including their right to establisl., should they their I i 277. In southern Africa, the. Pretoria regime, ~mbold­ so wish, a State of their own. living in peace side by side and ened by the regional strategic concepts recently put for­ with Israel. Security Council resolutions 242 (1967) and II to ,I I ward by the United States, has escalated its attacks 338 (1973), supplemented by an endcrsement of the legit­ llild- I against its neighbours, Angola in particular, in flagrant imate national rights of the Palestinians, remain the basis par- violation of international law. for a peaceful solution to the Middle East problem. .i 1I ; ~ , I 11 284. When Israel recently attacked Lebanon, causicg , ' 278. The internal developments in South Africa are also gned , 1 I ominous. ~e vague talk of reforming the apartheid tJys­ many casualties among Palestinians as well as Lebanese, goal , I tem has served only, as I see it, as an attempt to mislead the United States toolt' . -rompt and decisive diplomatic ac­ :on- I! the critics of apartheid. In reality, the system has re­ tion and was able to contribute to a cease-fire. However ii ,1 mained as rigid as ever. The human degradation in which precarious that cease-fire may be, it represents a welcome ! I 1 the majority of the country's population still has to live is attempt to set in motion the difficult process of peace lrity- 1 1 1 surpassed only by the human, and indeed moral, degrada­ with the involvement of ·all the parties concerned. d in 11 I i tion of the regime itself. But despite the efforts of the new regime to silence trade unions, writers, students, churches 285. We also welcome the fact that further steps have ; as 1 1 and other civic groups, opposition is obvinusly stiffening. been taken in preparation for the final withdrawal in April lven- I! Events now taking place in the country could eventually 1982 of Israeli forces from the occupied areas of Sinai. A ltage 11 lead to a violent show-down. dismantling of the Israeli settlements on the West Bank itua- 11 and in the Gaza Strip would be a constructive next step. ment I 279. Every nation devoted to d~mocratic ideals and Human rights in the occupied territories must be observed ould I,!i human rights should strive for the abolition of the in a way that is compatible with Israel's tradition of de­ : be- apartheid system. No democracy should support a system mocracy and the rule of law. ment 11 which violates the very idea of democracy itself. It is now high time that massive world opinion be reflected in ftrm 286. In the Middle hast lIle price of inaction might be I.1i 'I demands that South Africa fmally co-operate in imple­ very high. The mere lack of initiatives for peace con­ i on 1 1 menting the United Nations plan for the independence of stitutes in itself a danger. If no progress is seen towards I i ldrid Namibia endorsed by the Security Council in resolution solving the crucial Palestinian question, bitterness and In of fl 435 (1978). None of the ftve Western Powers with special hostility will deepen and tension rise. In few other re­ >era- responsibility for implementing this plan must through its gions of the world is it therefore as important to maintain must I! Ii own actions give Pretoria the impression that the demands the momentum for peace through initiatives to implement lents ,I that the South African regime end its illegal occupation of the resolutions of the Security Council. and 11 Namibia are not seriously meant. :;'inal I) 287. The war between Iran and Iraq has now lasted a 280. In this process the Security Council must, as Swe­ whole year. Tens of thousands of people have been killed, den has repeatedly stated, be prepared to impose sanctions and destruction is widespread. The economic development f the against South Africa. This may be the only language of both Iran and Iraq is being hindered by the continua­ ;t as South Africa understands. tion of the conflict. The efforts of the United Nations in ; al- sending the Special Representative of the Secretary-Gen­ t re- 281. South-West Asia is another area Where tension is eral, Mr. Olof Palme, to help lead the parties onto a ~ty, reaching a dangerous level. The Soviet intervention in course of peaceful settlement have the whole-hearted sup­ nter- Afghanistan, the war between Iran and Iraq, the terror port of the Swedish Government. The parties should ex­ at of and bloodshed in Iran, the conflict between Israel ane the plore every possibility for a negotiated settlement, based

--- .i~i:IJ'JI· _ ,.iU &22~~.g~j~.1I25•.__C-~I!II.b_"'------"'''' S4_.a...! __••• ••••••••••••••••£••••••:.,.,••

216 Genera' Assfmbly-Thirty-sixth Session-Plenary Meetings 304. V 295. The crying needs exist, not only because resources on the principles of the Charter ot the United Nations, via will to an impartial third party. are limited or not fully used, but also because the re­ problem sources available are expended in an. unwise and unjust only if \ 288. In Indo-China, shattered by decades of war, peace way. The sums that the world spends for military pur­ and ame is being sacrificed to the attempts of some States to gain poses exceed the total income of that half of mankind matter C regional power and to the strategic ambitions of the great which lives in low-income countries. The per capita con­ the wid( Powers. The Swedish Government has given its support to sumption of energy in the industrialized countries, one of the Sout UIj,ted Nations efforts to find a political solution to the the most vital world resources, is 120 times as high as in mean b( Kampuchean problem. We regret that Viet Nam did not the least developed countries. choose to take part in the International Conference on 305. IJ Kampuchea, since a dialogue between the parties to the 296. In a month's time a summit meeting on North­ tant thal conflict could create a favourable political climate neces­ South questions will be held in Mexico. It is not intended self-det( sary for a solution. Every avenue should be explored for to take the place of global negotiations within the f~ame­ force 01 the bringing about of such a dialogue with the participa­ work of the United Natiems, but Sweden hopes that the These I tion of all the parties concerned. meeting will give the necessary political impetus to break East an( the present deadlock and set tpe North-South dialogue in individu 289. Both the Heng Samrin regime installed by Viet motion. We trust that it will identify so' many areas of Afghani t~ Nam and earlier Pol Pot regime claim the right to rule common interest that a global round of negotiations will or any c over the people of Kampuchea. Sweden regards neither of be unanimously agreed upon and launched at this session fundaml these regimes as the legitimate representative of the Kam­ of the General Assembly.. of self-( puchean people. An acceptable settlement of the conflict the prot must include the withtl'rawal of all foreign troops and the 297. There are a few areas where mutual interests dic­ restoration to the Kampuchean people of its right to selfo tate joint discussions. 306. I determination. In our view, it is open to question whether Power ( the continued recognition of the Pol Pot regime by the 298. The first concerns· food security. No question can I me~sures not let United Nations is not an obstacle to a solution of the be more vital than how to work out policies and lation c Kampuchean problem within the framework of the United that ensure sufficient food for all mankind. Such discus­ manda Nations. sions must deal with ,short-term disaster measures as well That is as longer-term policies to stimulate food production on a for devl 1.1). Few peopie have fought so hard and so long for sustainable basis. is why self-determination as have the Vietnamese. It is a tragic their ac irony that Viet Nam now seems unable to recognize that 299. Secondly, action concerning commodities, trade em Afr same fundamental right when it comes to the sorely af­ and industrialization is necessary. Growth in international present flicted people of Kampuchea. trade is of mutual interest to developing and industrialized the ris~ countries. Resistance to protectionism is therefore a ne­ Charter 291. Another nation urgently in need of peace is El Sal­ cessity. peace. vador, More than 20,000 people have been killed in the ,::;vil war raging in that unfortunate country. The opPosi­ 300. Thirdly, we know that a serious international d!s­ 307. 1 tkm in El Salvador has declared that it is willing to nego­ equilibrium exists, with pressing balance-of-payments the dele tiate in order to arrive at a peaceful settlement of the con­ problems for many countries. Concerted efforts are there­ to con1 mct. Sweden has long advocated the idea of a negotiated fore needed which aim at curbing inflation and unemploy­ Presidel settlement, and we note with satisfaction that this idea is ment and at increasing the transfer of resources. The es­ knowlel gaining in international support. A negotiated settlement tablishment of an energy affiliate attached to the World valuabJ, which establishes a cease-fire and a coalition Government Bank would be an important and constructive measure. in control of the army and the guerrilla forces would 308. ' make peace and democracy possible. 301. Fourthly, and finally, the United Nations Con­ tend a ference on New and Renewable Sources of Energy has zation, M~. Martynenko (Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic), recently stressed the necessity of expediting the transition ward Vice-President, took the Chair. from oil to alternative sources of energy. It also pointed membe to the risks of.....a loo intensive exploitation of firewood and ter of t 292. The struggle in El Salvador is a struggle between a charcoal in developing countries. Continued stimulation dence ( prevailing oligarchy and the demands of the people for of conservation and efficient use of all forms of energy greater justice. In the final analysis it is in this conflict are needed. Stable and predictable market developments 309. that the democracies CL ,he world have to choose sides. are in the interest of all countries. taking challel1 293. El Salvador is not only a country with a high level 302. The idea of having a global round of negotiations has en of political violence. It is also one of the many poor na­ is based on the knowledge that all countries, whether rich concel'! tions of the world. Just as violent upheavals in many or poor, would benefit from international economic co­ be mo' countries have their origins in deep economic and social operation. whole injustices, so the widening gap between the rich and the with " poor countries may ultimately lead to international con- 303. The demand is there. The developing countries flicts. . have an enormous need for imported goods for the devel­ 310. opment of their resources and infrastructures. The human selves 294. One fifth of mankind is liVing on the margin of resources are there. Millions of people are unemployed in of ma existence, in hunger, unemployment and illness and with­ the member countries of the Organization for Economic race, 1 out adequate shelter. This is intolerable from the point of Co-operation and Development. The capital is. also there. ing m, view of human solidarity and, in the long run, incompat­ Oil production has created a vast surplus of capital in turing ible with world peace and sta;bility. search of a productive use.

"c.,./~--_."----", "

;j:, ...... $lIa~aIlJ.... ~5....~~~-_a- ....~a.5d1llll!l1lli!l..1JI•. 1I.1!JI~...!I!IJI!~_!l!i&II.•••_-•••••a.J••••••IS•..1'1__. '. . '" , ...

.j j i, J, I j ~ ... .\ ' 9 ~ • ; ; if' "z' ~l i····· il';, r ..~ ,,>

. -. ! 12th meeting-24 September 1981 217 304. What is lacking is the imagination and the political employment everywhere, tfie continued violations of will to utilize the potentials available and to turn the human rights, the disrespect for the rule of law in interna­ problems into possibilities. This will can be mobilized tional relations pose the question: in what direction is our only if we increase the awareness among political leaders world heading? and among the public that development co-operation is a matter of survival, not of charity, and that the North in 311. The international political climate has further the wider perspective is just as dependent on the South as deteriorated. The situations in Afghanistan, the Middle the South is on the North. Solidarity between the two will East, Kampuchea, Central America and southern Africa, mean better chances of survival for both. in particular, show no sign of easing. Notwithstanding various serious efforts, little real momentum towards solu­ 305. In the present tense world climate it is more impor­ tions has been generated. tant than ever that we vigorously defend the principles of self-determination, territorial integrity, the non-use of 312. In his report on the work of the Organization force or the threat of force and respect for human rights. [A/36/1] , the Secretary-General points to a disturbing These principles are equally applicable to conditions in weakening of the international co-operative effort and an East and West, North and South. The rights of peoples or erosion of the system of multilateral co-operation, as well .indivic,{uals must be protected whether they live in as the dangers of unilateral action which inevitably evoke Afghanistan, Et Salvador, Kampuchea, Namibia, Poland retaliatory measures. Centrifugal forces are at work within or any other country. We cannot accept the suppression of the international system. An increasing number of interna­ fundamental human rights or the erosion of the principle tional consultations on various issues fails to produce con­ of self-determination in the name of any ideology or for crete results. In some cases international negotiations, the protection of any strategic interests. which could more fruitfully have been pursued within a recognized multilateral framework, take place outside this 306. In the nuclear age the risks involved in any great­ Organization, thus frustrating adequate representation of Power conflict are immeasurable. That is why we must all parties. not let tension grow to a point where the process of esca­ lation can no longer be controlled. That is why we de­ mand a halt to the arms race between the super-Powers. 313. The Government of the Netherlands wishes to re­ That is why we urge the super-Powers to start spending affirnl its feelings of responsibility as a Member of the for development imaead of spending for destruction. That Organization and its dedication to the purposes and prin­ is why we urge the super-Powers to reconsider the course ciples of the Charter. The system of international co-oper­ their actions have taken in Asia, the Middle East, south­ ation laid down in the Charter provides a framework for ern Africa and Latin America. In many of these areas the peaceful change, a framework for which there is no alter­ present policies of the super-Powers combine to heighten native. In our times, effective use of this instrument is the risks of war. In all those areas the principles of the essential. Charter -If the United Nations provide the guide-lines for peace. 314. The United Kingdom Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and Commonwealth Secretary, Lord Carrington, 307. Mr. van der STOEL (Netherlands): On behalf of has on behalf of the 10 member States of the European the delegation of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, I wish Community [8th meeting] clearly set out the principles to congratulate the Assembly on having Mr.' Kittani as guiding their activities in the world today and their posi­ President of this session. His experience and profound tion on a number of issues. I want to add the following knowledge of the United Nations system will give us in­ on behalf of the Government of the Netherlands. valuable guidance in our work. 315. Three issues are, in the eyes of the Netherlands 308. The Government of the Netherlands wishes to ex­ Government, of critical importance. I am thinking of tend a warm welcome to the new Member of the Organi­ arms control and nuclear arms limitation, the combating zation, the Republic of Vanuatu. We are also looking for­ of poverty in the developing world and the restructuring ward to the forthcoming admission of Belize to of the economic system, and the promotion and encour­ membership. On behalf of the Kingdom, the Prime Minis­ agement of respect for human rights. ter of the Netherlands Antilles was present at the indepen­ dence ceremonies. 316. The single most dangerous threat to the survival of mankin.d is that of nuclear annihilation. Therefore, the 309. The thirty-sixth session of the General Assembly is quest for nuclear arms control should be vigorously pur­ taking place in a political and econl'mic context which sued, regardless of the international climate. In a period challenges the .purposes and principles the Organization of mounting tension, the rationale for arms control and has embodied over the past decades. There is cause for disarmament should be even more apparent to all. By concern about the direction in which mankind seems to their very nature, the nuclear Powers, particularly the be moving. This session must summon the efforts of the United States and the Soviet Union, have a special re­ whole international community to head off the dangers sponsibility. Within and outside the framework of NATO, with which humanity is confronted. the Netherlands Government aims at arms control, and in particular the reduction of the role of nuclear arms. It 310. After almost two years, the 1980s present them­ attaches the utmost importance to the forthcoming nego­ selves as a critical and dangerous decade for the survival tiations between the Governments of the United States of mankind. The global problems of. the nuclear arms and the Soviet Union with a view to a mutual and sub­ race, the. deterioration of the environment, the ever-grow­ stantial reduction of the level of armaments, in particular ing mass poverty and the lack of progressin the restruc­ through the reduction and, if possible, elimination of cer­ turing of the world economy, the alarming levels of un- tain types of long-range theatre nuclear weapons.

I I

I I ~ ; :ff' ,.Z· _~ it<

i - ,

218 General Assembly-Thirty-slxth Session-Plenary Meetings 317. The Netherlands Governm~nt considers these nego-' 324. We continue to believe thattheterritoiial integrity tiations, which will be pursued within the framework of of Lebanon constitutes a prerequisite for stabilitY in the the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks [SAll1, to be vitally area. The peace-keeping activities of U:~HFIL in southern important. This pertains also to the rest of the SALT pro­ LebaI.\ln, which are of paramount importance for that cess. Riilure to achieve results in that process would lead country's integrity, and in which the Netherlands'has been to an unrestrained nuclear arms race. Such unrestrained participating as a troop-contributing country over the last vertical proliferation could increase the danger of a three years, continue to be hampered. I wish to reiterate wi~ning proliferation in a horizontal sense. our call on all parties concerned to enable UNIFIL to fulfil in safety its difficult and important mandate. We 318. A viable ndn-proliferationregime is essential for shall welcome and support any initiative in this regard. In the security and survival of us all. The threat of a steadily view of the extremely difficult circumstances ;in which growing number of potential nuclear Powers calls for the UNIFIL operates, I wish to express the high esteem of the speedy achievement of a consensus in the field of the Netherlands Government for the contingents of the United peaceful use of nuclear energy. Therefore, the Nether­ Nations and to express our deep sympathy to the Govern­ lands Government will continue to work actively for an ments and peoples of Fiji, Ireland and Nigeria on the international plutonium storage system and for the im­ losses their contingents have suffered this year in the provement and strengthening of the safeguards regime of service of peace." . " -'il IAEA.

319. The Netherlands supports the creation of nuclear­ 325. The continued Soviet military intervention in weapon-free zones where they are conducive to increased Afghanistan and the lack of implementation of the. resolu­ stability in the regions concerned. We voted for the reso­ tions adopted by this Assembly on the situation in that lutions on the establishment of such zones in the Middle country give the Netherlands Goverpment cause for con- ' East and South Asia last year [resolutions 35/147 and cern. The violation of the rule of law with regard to the 35/148, respectively], and we shall do so again. We also self-determination and sovereignty of a people cannot be recognize the need for a comprehensive test ban treaty condoned. We hope that the parties involved will accept and for security assurances to non",nuclear-weapon States, the proposals' made by the European Council to bring 'an : \ end to foreign milital1y intervention and to rest~re the in­ a subject on which we have recently made a contribution i, I in Geneva. dependence and non-aligned status of that stricken coun­ ! 1 try. It is, in the view of the Netherlands Government, the ! i t~ 320. Finally, do not let us forget that there are non-nu­ responsibility of the international community work for clear armaments which are threatening as well, and which a speedy and peaceful solution and for the alleviation of (I the suffering of the Afghan people within and outside the f j call for measures of control. Among these are chemical j j weapons, the use of which was outlawed long ago, but borders of their country. [I which should be made to disappear altogether as soon as ! I possible. The preparation of a treaty on chemical weapons 326. The principles of equal rights and self-determina­ ,I I is, to my mind, one of the major tasks of the Committee tion of peoples and of refrahing from the threat or use of I 1 i I on Disarmament. force against the territorial integrity Of any State are at the j very basis of our existence as a civilized international i I 321. The record of the United Nations in the vital field community. These principles are embodied in the Charter of disarmament over the past 35 years has been limited, of the United Nations and they are valid all over' the i I but the international community and its constituent parts world. They are at least as relevant to the situation ,in I must persevere in their efforts. My Government pledges Poland as they are to Afghanistan. They have been sol­ its active participation. emnly reconfirmed in the Final Act of the Helsinki Con­ ference. 322.. A comprehensive settlement of the Middle East I 1

conflict remains of critical importance to world peace. In I 327. Persistent violations of the rule of law also con­ i its meeting at Venice last year, the European Council of tinue to be tragic features of the situation in southern Af­ I,! the European Communities made clear the two principles rica. Successive. Governments of the Netherlands have I t on which such a settlement should be basedl3 and its pre­ I [ fundamentally--rejected the policy of apartheid. The re­ l of paredness to play a role in reaching such a settlement. ! 1 fusal of the Government of South Africa to abide by 1I Lord Carrington, on behalf of the European Community, I t United Nations resolutions on apartheid and Namibia I ' has already set out our position in regard to this conflict. makes further pressure~ including economic measures, in­ il I should like to stress the urgency of reaching a negoti­ I 'f evitable. My country has a positive attitude towards the ated and comprehensive settlement in the Middle East that i -1 use of economic instruments, taking into consideration the ! :.:1 is just and lasting, and that provides security for all States 14 opinion of the international community. With due 'regard ! :f in the area. There can be no just and lasting peace with­ !')l to its international obligations, the Netherlands Govern.. I .'~ out a solution to the Palestinian problem. ment is urgently looking for the most effective way to if participate in the existing voluntary oil embargo against 1'.; 323. The continued and arduous search for a settlement ~n­ in the Middle East suffered another setback as renewed South Africa and to institute regulations.concern.ing, 11 and violent hostilities flared up once again in Lebanon, vestment in South Africa and the limitation of certain im­ I'~ increasing even more the sufferings of the unhappy people ports from that country. I' in that country. The subsequent cease-fire arrangemeIiilt, on the other hand, constituted a step forward and proved 328. The Netherlands Government fully implements the that moderation and the conciliation of all parties con­ arms embargo and discourages contacts with the South tI

cerned were possible; a full-scale confrontation was African -authorities in the fields of culture, science and· bI avoided in the end. sport. 1 i I I

Ij .< ...IIIIIJ!!IIIIII .... --- i I I•I; '-J i . i: .. \ : I

12th meeting-24 September 1981 219 ty I 329. ,We will contin~e to render. financial support, in 337. A tragic example of the apparent powerlessness of i the international community is the conflict in and around ~e ! particular, to the front-line States and "Ye will work for an m I increase in international assistance to those States. Hu­ Kampuchea. The continuing human drama, with its dis­ tat manitarian assistance will be ,given to movements thatop­ regard for both the sovereignty and integrity of a nation en ~ pose apartheid policies. Victims of apartheid policies, in­ and the elementary human rights and freedom of the indi­ 1St cluding p<>litical refugees, can 'count on our support. vidual, is threatening peace and stability in the area. We Ite I regret the failure to implement last year's General Assem­ to .330. " A peaceful solution of the question of Namibia on bly resolution [resolution 35/6] and the DecTI"ration of the Ve '. the basis of self-detennination remains an essential condi- International Conference on KampucheaJ4 h~Md last July. In .tion of peace in southern Africa. The continuous efforts My Government feels that this Assembly should consider ch by the Secretary-General, the group of five Western States ways and means of ensuring their implementation. We he and the front-line States in implementing the settlement continue to support the efforts of the countries of the As­ ed proposal for Namibia approved by the Security Council sociation of South-East Asian Nations [ASEAN] in this re­ n­ by resolution 435 (1978) regrettably have not led to a so­ spect. he lution. So far, South Africa's position, as demonstrated he during the pre-implementation meeting of last January, 338. The United Nations has a central role to play in (\ has not pennitted the achievement of this objective. achieving the withdrawal of all foreign forces and a politi­ cal solution aimed at allowing the Kampuchean people 331. In recent weeks the situation in southern Africa has freely to decide upon their own future without outside in­ in been further aggravated by the operations of the South terference. We admire the efforts of international and non­ .u­ .African anny insid~ the territory of Angola. The Nether­ governmental organizations to alleviate the burden of the lat lands Government condemns the military actions of the Kampuchean people. In­ Government of South, Africa, which violate the sov­ he ereignty and territorial integrity of Angola. 339. I call upon all parties concerned fully to utilize the be framework of the United Nations in s~~kinga lasting so­ :pt 332. .. Change in southern Africa has long been on the lution that would end this tragic conflict. an in­ agenda of the Assembly.' The margins for peaceful change have steadily narrowed, wh!le the forces of violent change 340. The promotion and encouragement of respect for In­ and faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and are dangerously increasing. We shall have to do our he worth of the human person and in the equal rights of men utmost to .make sure. that the l1ecessary changes come for ~nd women are at the heart of the objectives of the Orga­ of about while they can still be realized in a peaceful man­ ner. nization. As an organization of States, it has in essence he been designed by its founding fathers as an organization of the peoples and for the peoples of the world. The same 333. The. Kingdom of the Netherlands follows closely idea of solidarity with human beings everywhere con­ the political, economic and social developments in Cen­ stitutes a cornerstone of the foreign policy of the Nether­ la- tral America and the Caribbean. of lands. We are fully committed to the recognition of the the fundamental rights and freedoms of the oppressed and the 334. Last December the General Assembly expressed its destitute in all parts of the world. nal dismay about the climate of repression and violence pre­ 'ter vailing in El Salvador and appealed for a cessation of vio­ 341. The promotion and protection of human rights is the lence and for the establishment of full respect for human .in not the concern of Governments alone. Involvement of the rights in El Salvador [resolution 351192]. This appeal has people themselves has vital significance for the struggle 01­ not been heeded. Human rights violations continue as be­ )n- for human rights. Many individuals play an invaluable fore and are a matter of deep concern to the Government role in this struggle, acting either on their own or in the and people of the Netherlands. The people of El Salvador framework of non-governmental organizations. In many are entitled to detennine their own future, free from out­ cases such organizations have taken the lead in standing on­ side interference, in a process of genuinely free elections. up for the victims of discrimination and repression. In my M­ But as long as terrorism by paramilitary forces and other view, human rights activists and human rights non-:gov­ ave forms of violence continue, no free expression of the will emmental organizations are vanguards of human soli­ re­ of the people is possible. darity. by bia 335. It is our sincere hope that a comprehensive politi­ 342. I want to pay a tribute here to those human rights in­ cal settlement process will be initiated in which the repre­ activists in many countries who are being penalized and the sentative political forces will· participate. Such a settle­ persecuted because of their exercise of rights that have the ment should lead to a new internal order creating the been recognized in the Universal Declaration of Human ,ard conditions for free elections, leading to the establishment Rights: freedom of expression and freedom of peaceful :m., of genuine democracy. '. assembly and association, 1Jlciuuing the right to form to trade unions. Such activi!"(s have fallen victim to publica­ inst 336. We give our support to the recent resolution of the tion bans, to dismissal from theirjobs, to internal banish­ to­ EUropean Parliament,' directly'elected by the peoples of ment and to loss of liberty, sometimes through political im- the European Community, calling for a settlement be­ trials and sometimes without any trial, for instance, by t~eenthe Government on the one hand and the opposi­ confinement to psychiatric institutions. In several cases tion Revolutionary Democratic Front on the other. The such activists have paid with their lives for their efforts in the Netherlands Government feels that DO effort should be promoting respect for human rights. )Oth spared to·facilitate the rapprochement. of 't~e parties in­ and volved, with a view to ending the plight of the. people of 343. Within the United Nations, the work to ensure the El Salvador.' observance of basic standards of human dignity must be General Assembly-Thirty-sixth Session-Plenary Meetings ! carried on with vigour. In many places in the world such that Governments have the responsibility to Clevi~e pol­ i "\ standards are still being trampled upon notwithstanding icies aimed at the prevention and eliinination of discrimi­ -.£ j. their explicit fonnulation in United Nations declarations natory practices in. society. I and conventions. Several countries are afflicted with a ris­ I ing tide of intolerance and group hatred, leading to the 350. Political oppression, social discrimination and eco­ torture and physical liquidation of citizens who do not nomic misery and exploitation are equally incompatible \ share the views of the ruling regime. with intrinsic human dignity. The struggle for human rights therefore requires an integrated approach extending 34? After the unanimous adoption in 1975 of the Dec­ to social and economic as well as· to civil and political ! t laration on the Protection of All Persons from Being Sub­ relationships. In this context the diScussionS on the . i I , jected to Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading emerging concept of the right to development are; of great I i i ! Treatment or Punishment [General Assembly resolution importance. The Netherlands delegation is deteI'mine4' to I j anne~], I\ 3452(XXX), it is· an affront to international soli­ participate in a constructive way in the further elaboration 1 J darity that torture is still being practised today and that it of this concept. " 1, I is still being excused with references to exceptional cir­ ! t 1I cumstances, which are specifically excluded as grounds 351. The progressive development of international law , ' i j for justification in the Declaration. and its codification have always been among the impor­ I! i ,1 tant tasks of the General· Assembly: Over the pasf years !} 345. In re£ent years the authorities of certain countries the foundation has been laid for the drafting of a compre­ !I !, have turned to new methods of terror designed to help hensive convention on the law of the sea, based on the "I i 1 them evade their own responsibility. I am referring to the concept of a common heritage of. mankind as adopted by I I method of having political opponents simply assassinated the Assembly at its twenty-fifth session [resolution 2749 I] by anonymous executioners and the method of having (XXV)]. The tenth session of the Third United Nations 11 people abducted, equally anonymously, to secret places of Conference on the Law of the Sea has indicated that the i \ i ! detention. As to the second method, I hope that the excel­ overwhelming majority of the world community of na­ I I lent work of the Working Group on Enforced or Involun­ tions feels that a generally acceptable regime of the seas I• tary Disap~arances set up by the United Nations Com­ is now within reach. IJ I, ,J mission on 'Human Rights will contribute to the stopping :! of that detestable practice. 352. Such a convention, scheduled to be signed next i I year in Caracas, will constitute a monumental achieve­ 11 346. From my own experience in the Commission I am ment. The centuries-old idea of the seas being open to all i t convinced that that body still has many important contri­ has been moulded to the modem-world reality of widely i ,I butions to make to the achievement of a more just and a divergent capacities of St!ltes to benefit from this open­ 1I more humane world. I note with satisfaction that next ness of the oceans and to the need to protect the oceans I 1 year the Commission will be able to give serious attention and their resources against indiscriminate use.· Effective IJ I ~ to the rights of indigenous peoples, whose position is in..: international co-operation with full regard for the special :1 creasingly being impedlled by the expanding needs of interests of developing countries is the key for the new ,! I '\ modem society. regime of the seas as a shared resource of all countries. \ '~ Next year the international community will- basically have lA I 'I 347. During this session of the Assembly there will be no alternative, for the law of the sea no longer has a "no­ I~ an opportunity to discuss the draft optional protocol on treaty" option. the abolishment of capital punishment, submitted by the Federal Republic of Germany.15 My Government hopes 353. In 1983 we shall commemorate the birth of my 'Ij I 'f., that many delegations will be in a position to support that leamed compatriot, Hugo Grotius, four centuries ago. He ''\1 I '1\ initiative. was one of the earliest advocates of the idea that the seas "~ are the common heritage of mankind. I hope that the i 348. We welcome the submission by the Economic and Convention on the Law of the Sea will be a reality when Social Council to the Assembly of a complete text of the that commemoration takes place. draft Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of In­ liI :1 "I :bE tolerance and of Discrimination Based on Religion and 354. The stagg~ring problems of mass poverty, hunger I .~~ Belief. Almost two decades have passed since the Assem­ and unemployment facing the developing cou.ntries con­ I~ bly first asked for the "elaboration of such a document. I tinue to command top priority on the international !~ urge the Assembly to adopt and proclaim that Declaration agenda. Over the past years, conditions have often deteri­ I} p~sent 16 1·;.1 at the session. The subject-matter of the Declara­ orated, particularly for the poorest countries. Recent con­ I' tion is no less relevant today than it was 20 years ago. On ferences, such as the United Nations conferences on the the contrary, it may be even more relevant nowadays. It is least developed countries and on new and -~ne~able my deep conviction that the Organization should combat sources of energy, have drawn the attention of the interna­ religious intolerance and discrimination as vigorously as it tional community to specific problem· areas and _have ind~­ has combated racial intolerance and discrimination. cated ways to approach the issues. Nevertheless, we, like others, are distressed by the over-all lack ofconcrete prp­ 349. The Netherlands Government attaches fundamental gress towards solutions for the problems facing the de\fel­ importance to the continued struggle against all forms of aping world. discrimination, and strongly supports the endeavours of the United Nations in this field. In particular we regard 355. We are concerned to see that it has not yet been the recent entry into force of the Convention on the Elim­ possible to reach an agreement on the new round of ination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women global negotiations, notwithstanding the' general recogni­ (General Assembly resolution 341180, annex) as a tion of the need for those negotiations and notwithstand­ milestone in this struggle. It is widely felt in my country ing the admirable and tireless efforts of the distinguished

/ -,,../....__....._--_....._------_.. j ...•

12th meeting-24 September 1981 221 I 01­ ·1I ; predecessor' of Mr. Kittani, Mr. von Wechmar, who de­ 364. Our commitment to the needs of the developing ni- serves our special gratitude. We hope that we shall soon countries must not falter. The question remains how best I be in a position to build on the foundation he has laid for to approach the various North-South issues, to some of I us, and we are happy that Mr. Kittani has undertaken to which I have just referred. co­ ble \ continue the work in this field. lan I 365. It is of the highest importance that the functional ing ,I 356. There seems to be a need for a bold, imaginative approach pursued in the appropriate specialized forums move to break thfough the present stalemate that by and .cal :, l\ should be adhered to in a manner which offers the best the large characterizes the North-South negotiations. Con­ chance for concrete and tangible result~. :eat ! certed international action is required. In that context we I appreciate the proposal to convene the summit meeting at 'to i 366. Given the world-wide and interrelated nature of the ion t Cancon focused on the North-South relationship, as pre­ problems at stake, there is also a need for a process of sented in the Brandt Commission's report. 17 Such an un­ ( negotiations that allows for an overview which provides precedented meeting can, and we hope will, provide the for over-all objectives and ensures general guidance and law necessary impetus to unblock the North-South negotiating pr~ess progress within a specific timespan. The Netherlands is IOr­ and, through a common understanding on broad prepared to play an active role in such a process. ~ars orientations, .facilitate the substantial action that is so )re­ urgently needed. the Ii 367. I have touched upon a number of vital problems by 357. It is evident that the areas of food, finance and with which the international community is faced. At the 749 energy, in particular, need immediate action. beginning of my statement I spoke of a dangerous dec­ J ade. If we are to solve the numerous and formidable ons ! the problems facing us, we must use the Organization fully I 358. As to the food issue, the overwhelming dimensions and effectively. We must use it to attain the purposes and na­ of present and foreseeable problems provide every reason ,eas principles for which it was created, and enable it to fulfil to call for stepped-up efforts with regard to food produc­ its mission as an instrument for peaceful change. Then tion, food security and food aid. It is almost shameful to the United Nations will be able to take up the challenge find ours~lves. squabbling/ over procedures and percentage of the 1980s to improve the co-operative and.decision­ lext shares when the urgency of the problem does not allow :ve­ making capacity of the international community, and to for further delay. meet the needs of future generations. I all lely len­ 359. None of us will disagree that there is a necessity to 368. Mr. ROLANDIS (Cyprus): This is the time of the :ans address, in an alert and effective manner, the energy is­ year when New York is characterized by a festive atmos­ tive sues that confront us all. The interrelated problems of en­ phere, caused by the numerous receptions, dinners and cial ergy consumption, energy production and energy trade other gatherings which mark the commencement of the new will figure dominantly in this and coming years. With so work of a new session of the General Assembly-thirty­ ies. much to be gained all round by improving consumption third session, thirty-fourth, thirty-fifth, thirty-sixth and so lave patterns and increasing and diversifying supplies, it on. The higher figure each year indicates that we are get­ 'no- should be possible for us to step up efforts and agree on ting further and further away from the calamities and trib­ joint action. ulations of the Second World War. Unfortunately, it also indicates and reminds us that we are getting further away my 360. An effective approach to energy problems will im­ from the possibility of arresting and containing an unde­ He ply the mobilization of additional finances. In this con­ sirable vicious circle of events, which may take us back seas nection I wish to reaffirm our interest in the establishment to where we started: the world war. the of an energy affiliate within the framework of the World rhen Bank. 369. Sometimes one wonders what the reason is for the revelry and the festivities in New York each. September. 361. In the area of finance, I hardly need to restate the Do we celebrate in order to divert our attention from the oger problem. We are all aware of the greatly increased need fact that we have failed to make the Organization effec­ con­ for financial transfers to meet acute balance-of-payments tive and consequently worthwhile? Do we celebrate be­ onal problems as well as longer-term development needs. cause we no longer care about the fate of this mammoth :teri­ entity which has been reduced to a cul-de-sac in which con­ 362. As an expression of the continued priority given to problems enter but never emerge because they are never I the development co-operation, and in spite of important bud­ resolved and settled? rable getary cuts in .a number of fields, the Netherlands Gov­ :ma­ ernment has committed itself to keeping its official aid at 370. In extending my warmest congratulations to Mr. ind:- least at the same level. At present, approximately I per like Kittani and in expressing my deep satisfaction at his elec­ cent of our gross national product is spent on official de­ tion as President of the thirty-sixth session of the General prp­ velopment assistance. ~1eI- Assembly, I should like to refer to the wise and correct assessment in his opening statement: 363. We have noted recent statements stressing the im­ portance of private flows. While we agree that private "The General Assembly is not in need of new reso­ been flows are crucial for many developing countries, I should lutions but rather a commitment to the resolutions it d of do )gni­ like to emphasize that private flows not and cannot has already adopted and to the implementation of those lessen th'e need for increased pUblictr~n~fers, without resolutions by translating them into concrete actuality. tand­ which large areas and sectors will remain bYi?assed or ne­ thereby contributing to. the principles and purposes of .shed glected. the United Nations". [J st meetillg. para. 60.] 222 General Assembly-Thirty-sixth Session-Plenary Meetings This session should rightly, therefore, be devoted to work, peace-keeping would become an end in itself and would to implementation and follow-up, rather than to repetitious perpetuate an unjust status quo. It would soothe the pain and lengthy statements and resolutions. without curing the trauma. Necessary for effective peace­ keeping and peace-making efforts is the implementation 371. The remark I have cited, the substance of which is of the relevant United Nations resolutions, if a situation is reflected in many reports of the Secretary-General as to be brought to a just and lasting settlement. In connec­ Well, constitutes the quintessence of the very existence of tion with the aforementioned, I wish to express once tbe.,United Nations. Member States, and especially those again the appreciation and gratitude of my Government to which are small, weak and undefended, should have the UNFICYP, as well as to the countries contributing to the opportunity to inscribe on the agenda not only their prob­ peace-keeping operation, and repeat once again that we lems but also their hopes, their visions and their ambi­ sincerely hope that these valuable and praiseworthy serv­ tions. As things are at the moment, they only inscribe ices will be necessary for the shortest possible period of their frustration and their scepticism about the future of time. the world. 378. Posing a major threat to international peace and 372. On this score, a proposal ma4e by the President of stability is the escalation of the arms race. The increased the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Spyros Kyprianou, for the tension in East-West relations and the doctrines of balance holding of a special session of the General Assembly on of power and deterrence have triggered an unprecedented the vital isSUe of the implementation of United Nations competition, the world over, for the acquisition of arma­ resolutions may be recalled and repeated. ments. Our goal for achieving disarmament, and in par­ ticular nuclear disarmament, as set out in the Final Docu­ 373. As I stand at the rostrum of the General Assembly. ment of the Tenth Special Session of the General I ask myself: are we really united in the causes we are Assembly, contained in resolution S-IO/2, appears to be supposed to cherish, promote and protect? Are we really very far from realization. We cannot afford any more set­ united as far as social and economic justice, human backs, and strenuous efforts should continue to ensure the rights, political independence and the principles of inter­ cessation of the arms race, nuclear disarmament, a com­ national behaviour are concerned? Are we united in our prehensive nuclear-test-ban treaty and strict adherence to efforts to buttress plans for the upgrading and moral evo­ the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons lution of man? Or are we simply united in witnessing the [General Assembly resolution 2373 (XXII). am.:ex]. predicament and misery of the human being, unable to halt the nosedive which man has taken in his national and 379. Today, more than $100 per annum for each and every international affairs and activities? living person are spent world-wide on armaments. That amount is equal to 50 per~cent of the per capita income in 374. We are nearing the end of this year, with many of many countries of the world. It is indeed paradoxical to have the world problems no nearer to a solution. New and to spend 50 per cent of the amount needed to preserve life ominous events have taken place and relations between for life's destruction and extermination. East and West are ever strained, thus creating a bleak 380. This year the United Nations' and every non­ world outlook. The problems of the Middle East, Namibia, that of my own country and many others remain aligned country are observing the twentieth anniversary of unresolved, despite the efforts of the international com­ the First Conference of Heads of State or Government of munity through the Organization, and new acts of aggres­ Non-Aligned Countries, held at Belgrade. We retain with gratitude forid memories of the founding fathers of the sion and violations of the Charter of the United Nations movement .and their broad and all-embracing vision that have occurred in the past year. We are further confronted by the inabiIit'1 to make progress on the global disarma­ has literally transformed the world scene and given a new ment and economic issues, while poverty and famine con­ dimension to international relations. Great names-such tinue to ravage a large part of the world population. as Tito, Nehru, Nasser, our own Makarios and so many others-are identified with the noble ideals and principles of non-alignment, ideals and principles that account for 375. Beset by an atmosphere of poisoned East-West re­ the unprecedented growth of the movement, which now lations, the international community becomes all the more encompasses the. great majority of the membership of the obligated to find ways for tangible progress towards solv­ United Nation-s and plays a positive and constructive role ing the global issues ahd such regional conflicts, the per­ in the quest for solutions to many of the problems of the sistence of which directly affects the maintenance of inter­ world. national peace and security. 381. One of the major initiatives of the non-aligned 376. The point is pertinently reflected in the report of movement has been in connection with the efforts for the the Secretary-General on the work of the Organization, transformation of the present unbalanced and unjust world where it is stated: economic system through the establishment of a new in­ ternational economic order. In the absence of such an "The setbacks to East-West relations and a number order, many millions will remain in abject poverty and of unresolved regional conflicts are a dangerous com­ the gap between the North and the South, between the bination. The main thrust of the efforts of the United "haves" and "have-nots", will become wider. The con­ Nations has therefore been devoted to attempts to re­ tinuation of such an unacceptable situation constitutes yet solve or to contain such conflicts." [A/36/l, sect. IV.] another threat to world peace, stabHity and'security. Des­ pite the urgency involved, the launching of the global 377. In maintaining world peace and security, peace­ round of negotiations and the implementation of the new keeping operations play d significant, indeed vital, role. International Development Strategy have, regrettably, not Essential to peace-keeping is peace-making. Otherwise, materialized. None the. less, we wish to commend the

~- _~----..-- . .-/...... _--..... ,.... I (

12th meeting-24 September 1981 223

'ould constructive and persistent efforts of your predecessor, Mr. co-operation and confidence-building in Europe and, by pain President, and express our earnest hope that, given the extension, throughout the world. ~ace­ necessary political will on the part of all countries con­ ation cerned and especially the developed ones, the task will- be 388. Among the most serious international problems, :)0 is completed under your guidance. In this respect, we trust the perpetuation of which greatly threatens international mec­ that the Cancun meeting will take decisive steps towards peace and security, are the problems of the Middle East once the launching of those negotiations. and Palestine. The position of my Government on these nt to problems has been stated time and again before the As­ ) the 382. Closely linked with the new international economic sembly as well as other international forums and can be t we ,order is the establishment of the new world information summarized as follows: ' seI'V­ and communication order, which in fact constitutes an in­ KI of tegral part of the development strategy. The increasing 389. It is our flrm belief that the question of Pcl1estine awareness of the influence which news media can exert constitutes the core of the Middle East problem, and there on the life and progress of peoples, coupled with existing can be no comprehensive, viable and just solution without and and growing disparities among nations in this area, has taking into account the legitimate aspirations and inalien­ ~ased led to demands, mainly by the non-aligned countries, for able rights of the Palestinian people to self-determination, lance the establishment of the new information order which national independence and sovereignty, the right of all ref­ ~rtted would provide and safeguard a free and balanced flow of ugees and displaced Palestinians to return to their an­ Irma- information based, amo41g other things, on diversity of cestral homes and properties and their right to establish I par­ sources and free access to information. their own independent sovereign State in Palestine. )ocu­ :neral 383. The Programme of Action adopted by consensus at 390. We recognize the PLO as the sole and legitimate to be Nairobi at the United Nations Conference on New and representative of the Palestinian people, whose active par­ ~ set­ Renewable Sources of Energy, /8 though not living up to ticipation, on an equal footing, is indispensable in all :e the the developing countries' expectations, is an important efforts, deliberations and conferences on the Middle East. com­ fIrst step that, given the necessary follow-up and faithful Partial agreements, in their absence, in so far as they pur­ ce to implementation, could lead to the beginning of the solu­ port to solve this problem, are not valid. apons tion of one of the most acute problems facin,g the world today. Further broadening of co-operation and more effec­ 391. Cyprus strongly adheres to the fundamental'princi­ tive utilization of existing sources, as well as the transfer pIe that the acquisition of territory by force is inadmissi­ every of technology, are necessary prerequisites for the comple­ ble and can never be legitimized, whether in Palestine or That tion of the task, provided that adequate fInancing is also elsewhere. We therefore believe that the complete and un­ me in secured. conditional withdrawal of Israel from all Palestinian and • have Arab territories is imperative and long oveTdue. re life 384. The recently concluded United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries has identifIed the need 392. We deplore the continuing creation of faits accom­ for concerted efforts and international co-operation in plis, such as the annexation of Jerusalem, and the sus­ non­ order to provide the urgently needed assistance to those tained policies of colonization through new settlements aryof countries, which would help alleviate their plight. Here, aiming at altering the legal status of the occupied territo­ ent of again, a lot more needs to be done. ries and changing their demographic characteristics. We 1 with firmly believe that belligerency must come to an end and Df the 385. The resumed tenth session of the Third United Na­ that the sovereignty, territorial integrity and political inde­ n that tions Conference on th~ Law of the Sea, held at Geneva pendence of every State in the area must be recognized a new this year under the leadership of Mr. Koh, has somewhat and respected, as should be the right of all States to live -such mitigated the disappointm~nt at not having a convention in peace within secure and recognized boundaries. many on the law of the sea in 1981 and, it is hoped, brings us Iciples closer to a convention in 1982. The Conference was thus 393. Cyprus deplores the grave developments that have Int for able to achieve positive results on the outstanding issue of recently taken place in Lebanon as a consequence of the h now maritime boundary delimitation. It is earnestly hoped that Israeli acts of aggression against civilian targets in Beirut of the the remaining issues will be satisfactorily resolved at the and southern Lebanon, which constitute a blatant vio­ re role next session of the Conference. lation of all norms of international law. Once again, we of the reaffirm our total commitment to the sovereignty, ter­ 386. The intensive and arduous efforts of the past 15 ritorial integrity, unity and independence of Lebanon. years should not be frustrated by the reopening of sub­ lligned stantive and difficult issues which have already been ne­ 394. The Israeli air raid on the Iraqi nuclear installa­ for the gotiated and agreed to by all delegations to the Con­ tions constitutes yet another totally unjustified and unwar­ : world ference. Otherwise, we would be depriving mankind of ranted act of aggression directed against the soveJ;eignty .ew in­ one of its vital common heritages and jeopardizing efforts and independence of Iraq" The Government and people of lch an for a regulated and just regime for the seas. Cyprus joined the international community in strongly tyand condemning that gross and flagrant violation of the princi­ :en the 387. The lack of any progress of substance at the ples of the Charter, which has created additional dangers le con­ Madrid follow-up meeting of the Conference on Security to peace in that sensitive area of the world. Ites yet and Co-operation in Europe is causing considerable ap­ ~. Des- prehension. The Conference will reconvene next month, 395. The hostilities between Iran and Iraq, two neigh­ global a~d Cyprus, together with all other participating coun­ bouring non-aligned countries, continue to cause anxiety, he new tries-and particularly the neutral and non-a~igned~will particularly to the members of the non-aligned movement. Ily, not exert every effort to achieve a breakthrougb and thus Cyprus, together with the rest of the world, expresses the :n.d the safeguard and promote an important process for detente, earnest hope that sustained efforts, and particularly those General Assembly-Thirty-sixth Session-Plenary Meetings of the Foreign Ministers of Cuba, India, ZamDla and the 401. Our commitreent is equally strong c(,lncerning the Head of the Political Department of the PW, will soon final eradication of the abhorrent doctrine of apartheid bear fruits and the whole issue will be peacefully re­ practised by the Pretoria regime. Cyprus strongly con­ solved. These were the considerations that prompted my demns the continuing terror and brutal repression in South Government to offer Cyprus as a venue for preparatory Africa, a recent manifestation of which was the death sen­ work connected with the aforesaid initiative of the non­ tences imposed on the three freedom fighters. These sen­ aligned countries. I wish to reiterate that we shall con­ tences emphasize once again the urgency of the problem tinue to offer every facility, and shall spare no effort to and the necessity for speedy implementation of the United assi:t· in the quest for I!chievin~ a settlem~nt. Nations resolutions on South Africa. 402. Concerning the question of Western Sahara, we 1 396. Another issue which is causing grave concern is 1 the situation in South-East Asia, which should be solved welcome the constructive and dedicated efforts of the in accordance with the purposes and principles of the OAU to ensure a peaceful solution of this problem I Charter of the United Nations, in such a way as to pre­ through the exercise of the right to self-determination by serve the independence, sovereignty and territorial integ­ the people of that Territory. The United Nations sliould rity of all countries concerned. It is in this respect that we play an active role in the. implementation of t~e relevant decision of the' OAU in order·to ensure' that the referen­ I Cb""e encouraged by the progress, however limited to date, dum is organized and conducted in the most proper, fair I of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, I Mr. Perez dt;.. Cuellar. We express the hope that his efforts and impartial way. . will be crowned by complete success as soon as possible and that, similarly, the Kampuchean problem will also be 403. In the field of human rights and. fundamental free­ resolved. doms, the United Nations can look bd.ck with pride to what has already been achieved, especially in the domain I of the promulgation of binding international standards. 397. The situation in Namibia continues to pose a se­ Much more effort is still needed in the sphere of imple­ rious threat to international peace and security. The pre­ mentation, especially in cases of mass, flagrant and con­ sent impasse created by the constant provocation and ar­ tinuous violations of human rights coming in the wake of rogance with which South Africa flouts the decisions of aggression from without or upheaval and oppression from the international community,' coupled with the failure of within. That is why my delegation holds the firm view I tfte . Security Council to impose mandatory sanctions that what we need is not idealistic declarations alone; I against South Africa, leads to the escalation of an alre~~y more important, and indeed more urgent, is the need to I explosive situation in the region. concentrate on ways and means for their effective and full I implementation. 398. I do not propose to reiterate the well-known posi­ [ tion of my Government on the question of Namibia, as I 404. Determined and co-ordinated efforts are still did so only a few days ago at the sixth meeting of the, needed, but let us not forget that human rights' COincided eighth emergency special session of the General Assem­ with creation, that they fulfil the aspirations of individuals I bly. Suffice it for me to quote from the statement of the and that the tide of the quest for their implementation : I current chairman of the group of African States, Mr. B.ed­ now sweeping the world cannot be stemmed·by the pre­ I I jaoui of Algeria, who said that that session was "a very varications or negative attitudes of individual Govern­ j ! special phase in the mobilization of the international com­ ments. munity for the just cause of the Namibian people" and that the resolution adopted at that session served "to 405. In rededicating ourselves to the defence of hUQ1an maintain the ever-growing momentum of our solidarity rights let us all resolve to co-operate fully with interna­ with the Namibian people's legitimate struggle for na­ tional mechanisms of implementation that we have our­ tional liberation". selves set up. In this connection, my delegation would like to commend and express its satisfaction at the work 399. My country, a member of the United Nations done by such human rights organs as the Commission on Council for Namibia, was among the original sponsors of Human Rights, the Committee on the Elimination of Ra­ the resolution finally adopted [resolution ES-8/2] and will cial Discrimination and the Human Rights Committee. continue to associate itself fully with all United Nations efforts for the genuine independence of a united Namibia. 406. We warmly welcome the admission of the Republic We shall continue to oppose all efforts aimed at an inter­ of Vanuatu and the accession to independence of Belize. nal settlement in Namibia and support the implementation Thus have additional steps been taken towards the of the United Nations plan, in accordance with Security achievement of universality by the United Nations and the ·Council resolution 435 (1978), without any prevarication, elimination of colonialism. qualification or modification. We shall similarly imple­ ment the provisions of the resolutions adopted at the ninth 407. The question of my country, Cyprus, is part of the special session. long list of subjects on the agenda of the thirty-sixth ses­ sion. The just and correct remedial actions contained in past resolutions of the Organization providing for the sov­ 400. We strongly and vehemently condemn the large­ ereignty, independence, territorial integrity, unity, non­ scale incursions ofSouth Africa into neighbouring front­ alignment and demilitarization of Cyprus, as well as for line States, as manifested by the latest invasion of An­ the withdrawal of foreign troops, the voluntary return of gola, and wish to repeat our total support for SWAPO, the refugees to their homes in safety and tracing and ac­ the sole and authentic representative of the Namibian peo­ counting for the fate of the missing persons, have unfor­ ple in their hard struggle for self-determination and inde­ tunately remained a dead letter, a dismal reminder of the pendence. fact that this international giant has the muscles of an in- : \

" ..... i (;

12th meeting-24 September 1981 225

- fant on its executive, arms. The foreign occupation-.and tary-General our well-considered opinion as soon as pos­ lng the not just "the coup and subsequent events"-is still the sible in the course of the next few weeks. artheld 'cause of the political malaise which peooeates the coun- y con- " try. 414. Cyprus is one of the small countries of the world, I South but its wish and will to contribute towards the solution of th sen- 408. The problem of Cyprus was not discussed in this problems is enormous. We may be physically maimed but se sen- forum last year. The Government of Cyprus, after exten­ we are mentally and morally unbent and unflappable. We roblem believe that, with hard work, perseverance, goodwill, fair­ United sive consultations with the Governments of the non- 1 aligned countries and many other Governments, decided ness of mind and devotion to principles,not only small that this was the right course of action in the circum­ countries like ours but the whole world may firid the way stances prevailing at that time. This year the question of to more promising and prosperous 'days. ra" we of the Cyprus' is inscribed on the agenda, while efforts, through roblem negotiations, still continue. This time, however, there is 415. The PRESIDENT (interpretation from Russian): 1 ion by an additional factor: the 12-month-Iong frustrating experi­ shall now call on those representatives who wish to speak snould ence of the negotiations, during which the grip of the oc­ in exercise of their right of reply. Before giving them the elevant cupying forces has not loosened. Moreover, the situation floor, I should like to remind them that, in accordance eferen- .. was,.,.nQt, improved. in any substantive way by the Thrkish with General Assembly decision 34/401, statements in er, fair Cypriot proposals of 5 August, which were minimal and right of reply are limited to 10 minutes for the first inter­ inadequate. vention and 5 minutes for the second. Delegations will speak from their seats. II free- 409. The Thrkish Cypriot leader has alleged that he has ride to offered us the stars in his proposals. If he thinks that the 416. Mr.. ZAMBRANO VELASCO (Venezuela) (inter­ lomain , stars are equal to 2.7 per cent of an occupied land, then pretation from Spanish): Unfortunately, the rules of the Idards. certainly Mr.. Denkta§'s notion of the universe must be General Assembly allow only 10 minutes for the right of imple- erroneous. reply. Hence, I shall mention only the main issues, refer­ d con- ring representatives to the text I shall request the Presi­ lake of 410. In view of those factors, we shall insist on a full­ dent's peooission to have distributed. n from scale discussion of the question of Cyprus, either during this session or at a resumed or other session later on, if 417. It is with great regret that lam obliged to address 11 view alone; developments necessitate such a course of action: the General Assembly in exercise of the right of reply on leed to behalf of Venezuela because of references made by the nd full 411. Since September last year the Secretary-General Prime Minister of Guyana in his statement about my and his Special Representative in Cyprus, Mr. Gobbi, country. I say with great regret because Venezuela's for­ have been at pains to ensure the achievement of some eign policy is based on solidarity and co-operation among progress. Mr. Waldheim worked with dedication, and his still the countries of the third world and, in particular, among e work is commendable. The results, however, have been the nations of Latin America, as was stated before the incided trivial compared to the efforts exerted. Despite this situa­ Assembly by our President, Mr.. Luis Herrera Campfns viduals tion and despite the very poor progress hitherto, the [5th meeting]. ' :ntation Greek Cypriot side has expressed the will to continue the ~e pre- iovern- dialogue, and in this context it has presented further pro­ 418. The intent of the references made to Venezuela is posals which will facilitate the negotiating process. to present our country as expansionist and interventionist, as one seeking to take adVantage of those who are 412. In his report on the work of the Organization the weaker.. Intern!}1 ~pression may mean that the people of human Secretary-General, in referring to Cyprus, says: nterna- Guyana can be kept in ignorance of the facts, but other le our- countries can and must be made familiar with the histor­ "To take advantage of this situation, I and my Spe­ ical and legal bases on which Venezuela's position rests. would cial Representative may find it necessary to make spe­ e work cial efforts and present some new ideas, as appropriate, 419. Our dispute with Guyana does not derive from liti­ don on to sustain the momentum of the negotiating process. I gations between the Spanish and British Empires. Its of Ra- hope that any such moves on my part will be accepted cause is to be found in the plundering by the British of a mittee. in the spirit in which they are offered, as tools of the poor, defenceless Venezuela bled white by the enonnous undertaking of liberating the continent. ~public negotiating process for the purpose of facilitating pro­ gress towards an agreed solution. It bears repeating that Belize. continued delay in this effort only serves to consolidate 420. Until the Napoleonic wars, Great Britain had no :Is the the status quo, which both parties have found to be possessions on the South American sub-continent. When md the unsatisfactory." [A/36/1, sect. 1V.] Napoleon invaded Holland, the Dutch king and queen took refuge in England and the latter took under its pro­ 413. " We are at the moment meticulously considering the tection the Dutch colonies of the New World, among of the possible, initiative just mentioned. We trust that any pro­ them Dutch Guiana. At that time, the western limit of th ses- posed action of the Secretary-General will be based on his that colony was the Essequibo River. Once 'Napoleon was .ned in .good.Offices.mandate, and they must be within the frame­ overthrown and Holland had returned to ooooal, when the le sov- , work of the United Nations resolutions relevant to the time had come to return its colonies to its ally, England, , non- question of Cyprus and the high-level agreements between in a move very typical of its imperial era, decided to keep as for President Makarios and Mr. Denkta§ and President the western part of Dutch Guiana-the settlements of turn of Kyprianou and Mr. Denkt8§ which were concluded in the Berbice and Demerara. mdac- Secretary-General's presence and under his ~spices.''I We unfor- j. i are viewing' this new development with the seriousness it 421. From the time the British Empire reached South of the deserves and we shall not hesitate to express to··~e Secre- America, the plunder of Venezuelan territory began. al- ~ an in- 226 General Assembly-Thirty-sixth Session-Plenary Meetings though Venezuela had proclaimed its independence and support or to publicize alleged or non-existent backing, or was fighting to consolidate it. Year by year, almost day to create enmity towards Venezuela. I condemn such ac­ by day, Great Britain extended its incursions and its tivities as machinations designed to see Venezuela faU claims west of the Essequibo until, towards the end of the into the trap of an ill-considered reaction. century, tlie Orinoco and Caroni Rivers, in the very heart of our country, were in danger. At that point, through an 429. The arrogant, disobliging, provocative and even in­ agreement between Great Britain and the United States, sulting attitudes displayed by personages from the present Venezuela was obliged to submit to the cynical farce of a Government of Guyana towards Venezuela. are only to be tfa~sty of arranged .arbitration with neither Venezuelan understood as their attempt to seek excuses not to carry judges nor lawyers, under threat that if it did not do so out their contractual obligation to negotiate satisfactory the British advance into our territory would continue in­ solutions for a practical settlement of the dispute. definitely. Thus, it was sought to give a grotesque sem­ blance of legality to the plundering of one sixth of our 430. I admit that we are, for economic, demographic, national territory. military and other reasons, in a stronger position, than Guyana. I am aware that the responsibility for the defence 422. In no way do we seek to blame the young nation of and security. of a growing country means better equipping Guyana for these events. Those who seized our country's our armed forces. But 1 emphatically'deny that· Venezuela territory were the very same who enslaved and then harbours any aggressive intentions towards Guyana. ruthlessly eJPloited, under the colonial regime, the ances­ tors of the 'Guyanese of today. Hence Venezuela, follow­ 431. Venezuela wishes above all to win the battle of ing a line of conduct which some might deem naive-but peace and brotherhood with Guyana, because we are inev­ one of which we Venezuelans are proud-did not allow itably neighbours and because, to a great extent, we are its just claim to serve as an excuse for hampering or de­ children of the same American history. Thousands of Ven­ ferring Guyana's independence. We accepted and pro­ ezuelans are descendants of people from beyond the Esse­ moted the freedom of our neighbours without selfishness quibo. Francisco Isnardi, secretary and drafter of our Act and without prior conditions. of Independence, had, prior to coming to Car~cas, been the owner of land in the Demerara region. Anny doctors 423. On the contrary, in 1966 we negotiated and signed in colonial Stabroeck, now Georgetown, came to the On­ the Geneva Agreement' to resolve the dispute with noco before and during our wars of independence. But Guyana, inherited from Great Britain, by peaceful and above all, thousands of slaves from Demerara gained free­ civilized means. Under that·· Agreement, the signatory dom by fleeing to the Orinoco Strait, to enrich the· com­ countries were solemnly committed to seeking satisfactory plex of races that go to make up today's Venezuelans. solutions for a practical settlement of the dispute. First and foremost, howev~r, we have our Amerindian an­ cestors in common. 424. This is the core of the matter: Guyana and Vene­ zuela, freely and without pressure or threats, entered into 432. Let me repeat and assure you that Venezuela un obligation to seek satisfactory solutions for a practical wishes to win the battle of peace, because it is within settlement of the territorial dispute between them. peace and understanding that is to be found. the goal of achieving a satisfactory solution for a practical settlement 425. Unfortunately, the present Government of Guyana of the dispute. has shown a tendency to accept the infamies of the past. Venezuela's attempts at dialogue met with a wall of in­ transigence, and the stated policy of the Government of 433. Therefore I wish to conclude this statement about Guyana is at all costs to make the de facto situation in the Guyana with an appeal for friendship to the Government territories under dispute such that any settlement is im­ of Guyana, so that in sincerity and with good faith it will peded or rendered impossible. The unbelievable horror of fulfil its responsibilities under the Geneva Agreement of the Jonestown massacre showed the world the evil results 1966 and so that the Guyanese and Venezuelan peoples of that policy. together, in a spirit of responsibility and good-neighbourly relations, can finally eradicate the unfortunate vestiges of 426. We Venezuelans are aware of the serious and grow­ the crimes of colonialism of which we were both victims. ing economic and social difficulties afflicting the young nation of Guyana. In so far as our modest means allow, 434. With reTerence to Cuba, we are exercising our right we have tried to offer our co-operation. None the less, we of reply because of the Foreign Minister's rhetoric. The believe that any attempt to distract the attention of public delegation of a country with such mortgaged sovereignty opinion from immediate real problems and towards out­ as Cuba cannot have anything to say about a democratic, side, non-existent threats must be resisted. sovereign, fully independent and free State such as Vene­ zuela. 427. Venezuela is not asking friendly countries for any support that would mean taking sides against Guyana, be­ 435. Fidel Castro's dictatorial regime finances, directs, cause we are aware that territorial issues cannot be prop­ trains and supports all tne adventurism in Central Amer­ erly resolved through the interference of other States in ica, South America and the Caribbean and, as the instru~ matters not within their competence. Venezuela seeks ment of a super-Power's policy, also takes part ~n actions only understanding and study, .the mote thorough the bet­ in other parts of the world. ter, of ~e territorial problem between our country and Guyana. 436. The Assembly heard the statement of Luis Herrera Campins, a president who is aware of the sovereignty of 428. I clearly condemn the actions and statements of the his country. The President of Venezuela talks with his Government of Guyana as. designed to seek international own voice. Unfortunately, Cuba cannot say as much.

-'-.1....------~--__--- j " •.

I I­ I, ! } i -) a 13&..11. La a __lIi_"""-': 12th meeting-24 September 1981 227 r i ---.------king, or ' j 437.. The present Constitution of Cuba, adopted under vain-to destabilize the Government of El Salvador. such ac- ,1 the tyranny of Castro, is the only Constitution in the en- Therefore, in exercise of that right, it is solely responsible lela fallj tire Latin American region that pays the vassal's tribute to for the bloodshed that this violent Cuban military aid has ! a super-Power. President Castro takes part, led by the caused in my country, as it has caused bloodshed and I hand by the aggressors, in the sad chorus of those who continues to do so in many developing countries. Cuba is even in­ support the invasion of non-aligned countries such as solely responsible for the violent events which are now : present Afghanistan and Kampuchea. Castro's tyranny undertakes occu_£ing and which will occur- in Central America. ly to be military adventures. in many parts of the third world. to carry 447. Respect for the principle of non-intervention is a isfactory 438. My country itself suffered in the 1960s from mili­ victory for the Americas which dates back more than 50 ... tary aggression on the part of Cuba. We beat it militarily years. Unfortunately, the Government of Cuba lost it and otherwise. It was the first resounding defeat for more than 20 years ago, because all its orders come di­ ,graphic, Cuban military interventionism. Cuba also supports ter­ rectly from the Soviet Union. ion than rorism. defence 448. The large majority of Latin American countries ~uipping 439. ~. have t~~ ~~at~s.~~.a~ec,ti.