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S-0886-0002-03-00001
Expanded Number S-0886-0002-03-00001
Title items-in-Secretary-General's statements - V, 1 January 1964 - 31 May 1964
Date Created 07/01/1964
Record Type Archival Item
Container s-0886-0002: United Nations Documents of the Secretary-General: U Thant: Secretary-General's Statements
Print Name of Person Submit Image Signature of Person Submit VOLUME V - SECRETARY-GENERAL - STATEMENTS
No. Date Symbol 500. SG address at Columbia 7 January 64 SG/1642 301. Communications between SG and Pope Paul 7 January 64 SG/SM/1 302. SG appoints group of experts to examine apartheid in S. Africa 13 January 64 SG/A/1 303- SG letter to General P. S. Gyani 13 January 64 SG/SM/2 304. SG's*£resentative to attend London Conference on Cyprus l6 January 64 SG/A/2 305. SG letter to Amb. Rossides l6 January 64 SG/A/3 306. Reply from Amb. Rossides to SG letter l6 January 64 SG/A/4 307« SG press conference 21 January 64 NN/2884 308. SG appoints fifth member of Expert Group on S. Africa 27 January 64 SG/A/6 309. SG to visit eight African countries 27 January 64 SG/T/1 - 310. SG statement throughtspokesman re Cyprus 28 January 64 NN/2891 311. SG Personal Representative leaves to seek funds for new Institute 28 January 64 SG/A/1 312. SG to visit Congo (LEO) 28 January 64 SG/T/2- 313• SG leaves Paris for Morocco 29 January 64 SG/T/3 - 314. SG arrives in Rabat 29 January 64 SG/T/4 • 315. SG holds talks with King Hassan and Gov't ministers in Morocco 31 January 64 SG/T/5 - 316. SG visits Algeria, the second country on his trip to Africa 3 February 64 SG/T/7 ^ 317• SG continues visit in Algeria 3 February 64 SG/T/8 318. SG/holds talks with President of Aleria ... 4 February 64 SG/T/9 319. SG address in Algerian House of Assembly 4 February 64 SG/SM/3 320. SG leaves Algeria for Tunisia 4 February 64 SG/3J/10 321. SG inaugurates EH Square in Bizerte 4 February 64 SG/T/10/Add.l 322. SG interrupts African tour 5 February 64 SG/SM/4 323* SG attends opening ceremony at Tunisian Institute ... 6 February 64 SG/T/11 - 324. SG Press conference in Tunis 7 February 64 SG/T/12 325. SG's special representative to 7 February 64 SG/SM/5 undertake second visit to Burundi - 2 -
326. SG message on cease-fire in Borneo/Kalimantan 7 Feb. 64 SG/SM/6 327- SG messages to Emperor of Ethiopia and PM of Somalia 10 Feb. 64 SG/SM/7 328. SG rec's messages from Emperor of Ethiopia and PM of Somalia 10 February SG/SM/8 329- SG message on Congo Rescue operation 10 FEb. 64 SG/SM/9 330. Letters exchanged between PR of Thailand and SG 12 Feb. 64 SG/SM/10 331. SG appeal re situation in Cyprus 15 Feb. 64 SG/SM/11 332. SG message to sixth session EGA 19 Feb. 64 SG/SM/12 333- SG message to Editors' Roundtable, Mexico City 18 Feb. 64 SG/SM/13 334. SG comment on agreement reached between Algeria and Morocco 20 Feb. 64 SG/SM/14 335- SG informed of prize for peace awarded to UN 20 Feb. 64 SG/SM/1643 336. SG speech of acceptance of Balzan award 20 Feb. 64 SG/SM/15 337- SG statement first session Adv. Cttee, UNCSAT 25 Feb. 64 SG/SM/16 338. SG Statement at opening session Sp. Cttee of 24 25 Feb. 64 SG/SM/17 339- SG statement at Io97th meeting of SECCO (CYprus) 25 Feb. 64 SG/SM/18 340. SG condolences on death of Mrs. Lefaucheux 26 Feb. 64 SG/SM/19 34i. Iran buys additional $250,000 worth of UN bonds 27 Feb. 64 SG/B/1 34-2. SG'S preface to Raul Prebisch's report ... 28 Feb. 64 SG/SM/28 343. SG message to 20th session of ECAFE 2 Mar. 64 SG/SM/21 344. Aide Memoire to Govts. of Portugal and Congo 2 Mar. 64 SG/SM/22 345. SG message condolences on death of Mrs. Wagner 2 Mar. 64 SG/SM/23 346. The situation in Rwanda and Burundi 2 Mar. 64 SG/SM/24 347- SG statement in SECCO - Cyprus 4 Mar. 64 SG/SM/25 348. SG remarks at UNCA luncheon 3 Mar. 64 BU/2905 and 06 349. BG postpones trip to Burma and Iran 5 March 64 NN/2908 350. SG messages of condolence on death of King Paul 6 Mar. 64 SG/SM/26 351. SG appeal for voluntary contributions towards financing of the UN peace-keeping force in Cyprus3 7 Mar. 64 SG/SM/27 352. SG identical cables to President Makarios and EM's of Greece and Turkey 9 Mar. 64 SG/SM/28 CYP/1 353- SG identical messages to PR's of CJ^TIE Greece, 10 Mar. 64 SG/SM/29 Turkey and United Kingdom ' CYP/2 354. Canada to participate in peace-keeping force in 12 Mar. 64 SG/SM/30 Cyprus; will meet costs of participation CYP/3 355- Statement by UN spokesman re Turkish reaction 12 Mar. 64 NN/2912 on apt of R-B as Mediator - 3 -
356. Statement by US Department of State 13 March 64 CYP/8 357. Cables exchanged between SG and Minister CYP/4 or for External Affairs of Ireland 13 March 64 SG/SM/31 358. SG statement before SECCO (Cyprus) 13 March 64 SG/SM/32 359- Text of letter from UK re peace-keeping 13 March 64 CYP/5 or Force in Cyprus SG/SM/33 360. Text of letter from Greece re peace keeping 13 March 64 CYP/6 or Force in Cyprus SG/SM/34 361. Text of letter from the Netherlands re peace CYP/7 or keeping force in Cyprus 13 March 64 SG/SM/35 362. Finland to participate in UN peace-keeping 14 March 64 CYP/9 or Force in Cyprus SG/SM/36 363. Text of letter from Italy re peace-keeping 14 March 64 CYP/10 or force in Cyprus SG/SM/37 364. Text of letter from Australia re peace- 14 March 64 CYP/11 or keeping force in Cyprus SG/SM/38 365. Text of letter from President L.B. Johnson 17 March 64 SG/SM/39 366. SG leaves for Geneva 20 March 64 SG/T/13 367. SG opening statement at Trade Conference 23 March 64 SG/SM/41 EC/TR/45 368. SG designates Sakari S. Tuomioja of Finland CYP/15 or as Mediator in Cyprus 25 March 64 SG/A/8 369. SG recorded message for Radio Cyprus 27 March 64 CYP/18 or SG/SM/47 370. SG letter to PR of South Africa 30 March 64 SG/SM/48 371- SG messages on Alaskan earthquake 31 March 64 SG/SM/50 372. SG to address University of California and * University of Denv er 31 March 64 SG/T/14 373- SG address at University of Denver / 2 April 64 SG/SM/51 374. SG address at University of California --v 3 April 64 SG/SM/52 375- SG luncheon for Xerox 10 April 64 M/2919 376. SG message to 19th session of ECE 13 April 64 SG/SM/59 or ECE/101 377. SG statement at Dag Hammarskjold Memorial reception 14 April 64 SG/SM/60 378. SG message to PR of France on health of 17 April 64 SG/SM/62 President of France 379- SG message to the Chairman of the Council 17 April 64 SG/SM/61 of Ministers of the USSR 380. SG opening remarks at press conference 21 April 64 SG/SM/63 at UN Headquarters 381. SG press conference at UN Headquarters 21 April 64 M/2922 - 4 -
382. SG condolences on death of President 22 April 64 SG/SM/64 Dimiter Ganev of Bulgaria 383. SG statement at opening of UNICEF pavilion at the World's Fair, 25 April 19614. 24 April 64 SG/SM/66 384. SG to leave for Paris on Sunday 24 April 64 SG/T/15 - 385- SG receives personal message from President de Gaulle on arrival in Paris 27 April 64 SG/SM/67 - 386. SG meets French Cabinet ministers in Paris 28 April 64 SG/1644 - 387- SG message of condolences on death of Prime Minister of Sierra Leone 29 April 64 SG/SM/68 388. SG presides at meetings of ACC 29 April 64 SG/T/16 389. SG welcomed by Association of French diplomatic correspondents 29 April 64 SG/T/17 -- 390. Additional answers by SG at press conference in Paris on 29 April 30 April 64 SG/T/17/Add.l 391« President of French National Assembly gives reception in honour of SG 30 April 64 SG/T/18 392. SG leaves Paris for Hew York 30 April 64 SG/T/19 393. SG letter to PR of Costa Rica on "Fund for Emergency Assistance for Costa Rica" 1 May 64 SG/SM/70 394. SG to visit Ottawa 4 May 64 SG/T/20 395* SG message of condolences on death of former Assembly President Jose Maza 8 May 64 SG/SM/72 396. SG appoints Galo Plaza as his special representative in Cyprus 11 May 64 SG/SM/73/Rev.l 397. Text of letter from South Africa to the SG 18 May 64 SG/SM/74 398. Text of letter from SG to Minister for External Relations of Cuba 20 May 64 3G/SM/75 399- SG to pay official visit to Canada 22 May 64 SG/T/21 — 400. SG arrives in Ottawa 25 May 64 SG/T/22/Rev-2 - 401. SG holds talks with Canadian F.M. 25 May 64 SG/T/23 - 402. SG address to joint meeting of both houses of Canadian Parliament on 26 May 64 26 May 64 SG/SM/76 — 403- SG press conference in Ottawa 26 May 64 SG/SM/77 - 404. SG condolences on death of P.M. of India 27 May 64 SG/SM/78 405. SG message of condolences to Mrs. I. Gandhi 27 May 64 SG/SM/79 - 5 -
406. SG statement "before Secco on death of P.M. 27 May 64 SG/SM/80 of India SC/2589 407. SG condolences to Mme Pandit 27 May 64 SG/SM/82 408. SG press conference in Parliament Bldg. Ottawa, on 26 May 64 27 May 64 N.Wo.2932 409« SG remarks before the annual conference of HGOs on 27 May 28 May 64 H.No.2934 410. SG appoints Mr. Amachree as Repres. at London talks 29 May 64 SG/A/11
UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of I-.blic Laxjrmation United Nations, tt.Y. (FOB USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA. — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD)
Press Release SG/SM/36 CYP/9 lit- March 1964
FINLAND TO PARTICIPATE IN UNITED NATIONS PEACE-KEEPING FORCE IN CYPRUS
The Secretary-General, U Thant, was informed today by Ralph Enckell, Finlandrs Permanent Representative to the United Nations, that his Government had decided to give a positive response to the Secretary-General's request to Finland to take part in the United Nations Peace-Keeping Force
in Cyprus} in accordance with the resolution adopted by the Security Council on 4 March 1964. The Government of Finland has decided to take immediate measures to organize a battalion of volunteers for this purpose. The Secretary-General expressed his thanks to the Government of Finland for their prompt response to his request.
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UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT MS OFFICIAL RECORD)
Press Release SG/SM/35 CYP/7 13 March 1964
TEXT OF LETTER FROM THE XETI3ERIAKDS REGARDING PEACE-KEEPING FORCE IN CYPRUS
Following is the text of the letter received today by the Secretary- General, U Thant, from the Government of the Netherlands.
"In reply to your letter of 7 March 1964, FI 325/3 (18) to the Netherlands Minister of Foreign Affairs concerning the question of Cyprus, I have the honour to inform you that the Netherlands Government has decided to make a voluntary contribution in accordance with operative paragraph 6 of the resolution of the Security Council of 4 March 1964 to enable you to meet the costs of a United Nations peace-keeping force in Cyprus. "The Netherlands contribution will amount to the equivalent of the Netherlands contribution to peace-keeping operations, that is to say, 1.68 per cent of the total costs, with a maximum of $100,000."
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UNITED N A T I 6 it S Press Services Office of Public Information United nations, H.Y. (FOR USE OF U5FOEMA£TIOH MEDIA — NOT AH OFFICIAL BECORD)
Press Release SG/SM/31* CYP/6 13 March
TEXT _QF IETTER FROM GREECE TO SECTETARY-GEHSML REGARDING PEACE KEEPING. FORCE IK CYPRUS
Following is the text of the letter received today by the Secretary- General, U Thant,from the Government of Greece;
"With reference to your letter sub No. FI 323/3 (l8) of March 7, 1.96k, the Royal Hellenic Government have authorized me to inform you that, in response to your appeal and wishing to help the speedy setting up and dispatch to Cyprus of the United Nations peace-keeping Force, they have decided to contribute $500,000 towards the expenses of the Force during the initial three months period. "In spite of Greece's limited resources, she is disposed, if need arise, to make further contributions within her means."
UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, H.Y. (FOR USE op INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD)
Press Release SG/SM/33 - CYP/5 13 March 1964
TEXT OF LETTER FROM THE UNITED KINGDOM REGARDIEIG PEACE-KEEPING FORCE IN CYPRUS
Following is the text of the letter received today by the Secretary- General, U Thant, from the Government of the United Kingdom regarding the United Nations Peace-Keeping Force in Cyprus:
"I have the honour to refer to Your Excellency's letter FI 323/J5(l8) of the 7th of March to the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland in which you drew attention to the Security Council resolution S/5575 of the 4th of March, 1964 on the question of Cyprus, and in which you appealed to Her Majesty's Government to make as prompt and as generous a response as possible to your appeal for a voluntary contribution to meet the costs of the United Nations peace-keeping force. "l have now been authorised by Her Majesty's Government to inform you that, in their desire to afford you all possible assistance in your task, Eer Majesty's Government are prepared to make, in addition to the expenses of the British contingent which has already been offered, a. voluntary contribution of $1 million on the understanding that other countries will also be responding to your appeal."
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UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Matious, H°Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — HOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD)
Press Release SG/SM/52 13 March 196*4-
TEXT OF STATEMEiW BY SECBETARr-GEHBRAL BEFORE SECURITY COUNCIL AT MEETING Off 13 MABCH
"It may be recalled that, in my report to the Council of yesterday, 12 March (S/5593), I expressed my confidence that the United Hatiens Peatfe- Keepirig Force in Cyprus would be SOOK established and indicated that I hoped shortly to be able to report some positive developments . It is with consider- able gratification that I am able to inform the Council that the Force now is actually being constituted. "Since late yesterday, I have received firm and official assurances from three of the Governments I have approached about providing contingents that those contingents will be available. These Governments are Canada, Ireland and Sweden. "With regard to each of these Governments certain conditions and pre- requisites were defined which either have been met or, in my view, can be coped with. I may add that there are other promising prospects for troops. "In these circumstances, therefore, I asa now able to state to the Council that ths Force will be established without further delay and that elements of it will soon be deployed la Cyprus, Indeed, a small party of Canadian officers will be en route to Cyprus tonight, "This morning I received a communication through the Permanent Represen- tative of Turkey to the United Nations which has since been issued as a Security Council document (S/559^). I immediately requested the Permanent Representative to convey to His Government my serious concern and my urgent appeal to exercise the utmost restraint. A formal reply to this communication has also been sent. "The Council is also aware of the pledges of voluntary financial contribu- tion which I have already received from several Governments, which assure the requisite financial support for the United Nations Peace-Keeping Force in Cyprus. I am most grateful to all these Governments for their ready and generous response." A> TV
• ..,•• UNITED " H A^E 1 0 N S Press Office of public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA -- • WOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release CYP/U 13 March
TEXTS OF CABLES EXCHANGED BETWEEN SECRETARY-GENERAL AND MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OF IRELAND
Following are the texts of the cables exchanged between the Secreta&y- General, U Thant, and Frank Aiken, M.inister:ffcr External Affairs of Ireland: Text of Cable from Secretary-General...gated 12 March 196U; "As Your Excellency is no doubt aware, I have "been engaged since the unanimous adoption "by the Security Council of its resolution on h March 196U, in efforts to implement the provisions of the resolution dealing with the ftstablishment of the United Nations Peace-Keeping Force in Cyprus and with the appointment of the Mediator envisaged in the resolution. I have requested several countries, including Ireland, to provide contingents for the Force and have also endeavoured to reply to the various questions and requests for clarification, which have been presented to me in connexion with my request. Assurances have now been received, particularly from the United States and the United Kingdom, of substantial voluntary contributions which, will go a long way toward meeting the financial requirements for the Force. Other countries have given positive indications, as well, of their willingness to make contributions to the fund. "in the circumstances, and taking into account the great urgency of establishing the Force to avoid a further deterioration of the situation concerning Cyprus, I take the liberty of addressing this message to Your Excellency, appealing most earnestly for a prompt and favourable reply to my request regarding the provision of. an Irish contingent for the United Nations Peace-Keeping Force in Cyprus. Ireland, as a faithful Member of the United Nations, has invariably given its whole-hearted support to the peace- keeping efforts of the Organisation. Once again, I am calling upon you on behalf of the United Nations in the confidence that Ireland will also assist the United Nations in this vital effort to preserve peace, and request Your Excellency to let me have your reply at the earliest possible time*** (more) - 2. .- Press Release SG/SM/31 CTPA 13 March 1964 Text of Cable from Minister of External Affairs of Ireland dated March "I have received your telegram this morning about your efforts to implement the resolution of the Security Council of k March 196^, dealing with the establishment of a United Nations Peace-Keeping Force in Cyprus. I have also received the text of the replies you have given to the requests for clarification made to you by some of the countries asked to participate in the Force. "As your telegram so generously recognizes, Ireland as a faithful Member of the United nations has invariably given its whole-hearted support to the peace-keeping efforts of the United Nations. It •was in this spirit that my Government examined sympathetically your request for an Irish contingent for the United Nations Peace-Keeping Force for Cyprus. I am authorized to give1 you the following reply to your request. "The Government of Ireland haye agreed in principle, subject to the adoption by Bail Eireann of the resolution required by Irish law, to comply with the Secretary-General's request to contribute a battalion of approximately 500 men to the United Nations Peace-Keeping Force in Cyprus. "This decision is conditional on the Government's understanding that: "(l) That the function of the Force will be to maintain peace while the process of mediation to achieve an agreed solution of the problem confronting Cyprus is in progress and that the Force will have no function in influencing the character of the settlement to be made or its subsequent enforcement, "(2) That an assurance will be forthcoming from the Governments of Great Britain, Greece and Turkey that, during the presence of the Force in Cyprus, they will not intervene or attempt to impose by force, or by threat of force, a solution of the problem — and, particularly, a solution by partition, "(3) That every effort will be made by the Secretary-General to ensure that the Greek and Turkish Governments will place under the command of the United Nations their troops now stationed in Cyprus, and
\ (more) - 3 - Press Release SG/SM/31 CYP/4 13 March 1964
That, if it should be agreed to be necessary to keep a United ETations force in Cyprus after the expiration of three months, "(a) Other Member countries of the United Nations rould be asked to provide contingents and "(b) The Government would be free to withdraw the Irish contingent, irrespective of the progress of the mediation and the state of affairs in Cyprus at that tims. "The Irish Government view with regret the decision to raise funds on a voluntary basis for a United Nations peace-keeping force. They regard it as a grave and unwise departure from the principle of collective responsibility. Subject to Dail approval, the Government would pay the usual United Nations overseas allowances to our troops and would accept no reimbursement from the United Nations unless it were levied on all Members of the United Nations in the normal way. "Subject to the foregoing and as soon as you inform me that you have obtained the assurance referred to in paragraph 4 above, my Government will take the earliest opportunity of seeking the approval of the Dail for sending a battalion to join the United Nations Peace-Keeping Force in Cyprus."
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UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, H.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD)
Press .Release CY.P/8 13 March 1964
STATEMENT BY UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Following is a press statement issued toy the United States Department of State on March 11:
"The deployment of a United Nations Force to Cyprus has been delayed in part by a shortage of available funds. While it is hoped that most of the costs will be borne by the countries providing troops for the United Nations Peace-Keeping Force, it is essential to move promptly to stop further needless loss of life. The United States has therefore offered to contribute up to $2 million to a «j>6 million fund needed by the Secretary- General in order to get the international force established quickly. It is understood that a number of other nations are actively considering contributions to make up the balance. "By this contribution, the United States is demonstrating its concern for peace and showing its friendship for the peoples of Greece, Cyprus and Turkey. It is a matter of great urgency that the United Nations Peace- Keeping Force be established in Cyprus. The United Nations must bring an end to the fighting and, through mediation, find a permanent solution to this dangerous problem. "
UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR uss OF INFORMATION MEDIA — HOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD)
Note ITo. 2912 12 i
NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS
The following statement was issued tonight by a United Nations spokesman:
"The Secretary-General was informed by the Turkish Government that, while they thought very higlily of the qualities of Mr. Rolz-Becnett as a learned diplomat of great integrity, they would appreciate it if the Secretary-General would endeavour to suggest fcr the job of Mediator ano-.lier sta'tsT^ii of wide international experience and stature'who might also be familiar with the problems of the area concerned."
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UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of P.i'bllc Information United Nations, K.Y. (FOR USE OF IHFOEMATION MEDIA -- NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD)
Press Release SG/SM/30 CYP/5 12 March Ij6k
CANADA TO PARTICIPATE IN PEACE-KEEPING FORCE IN CYPRUS; WILL MEET COSTS OF PARTICIPATION
The Secretary-General received today the Honourable Paul Martin, Secretary of State for External Affairs of Canada, and reviewed with him the situation with respect to the establishment of a United Nations Peace-Keeping Force in Cyprus. Mr. Martin reassured the Secretary-General that Canada will participate in the United Nations Peace-Keeping Force. In addition, Canada will meet the costs of its participation. The Secretary-General has noted with satisfaction the statement made in Parliament today in this regard by the Canadian Prime Minister, the Honourable L. B. Pearson. The Secretary-General expressed his thanks to the Canadian Foreign Minister for Canada's prompt compliance with his request.
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UKITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Inforuation " United Nations, N.I. (FOR IK3 0? INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD)
Press Release SG/SM/29 CYP/2 10 March 1964
TEXT OF IDENTICAL MESSAGES FROM 5ECRFTARY-GENSRAL TO FERMAKSNT BEEEESEHTATIVSS OF CYPRUS, GREECE, TURKEY AND UNITED KINGDOM
Following is the text of identical telegrams sent last night by the Secretary-General, U Thant, to the Permanent Representatives of Cyprus, Greece, Turkey and the United Kingdom:
I have the honour to inform you that for urgent personal reasons General Gyani, my personal representative in Cyprus, has asked for leave of absence for approximately one week. I have accordingly designated Mr. P.P. Spinelli, Under-Secretary in charge of the European Office of the United Nations, to replace General Gyani temporarily as my personal representative. Highest consideratio'n.
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UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, H.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA -- NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD)
Press Release SG/SM/28 CYP/1 9 March 196k
TEXT CF IDENTICAL CABLES FROM SECRETARY -GENERAL TO PRESIDENT MAKftBIQS AND FOREIGN MINISTERS OF GREECE, TURKEY
Following is the text of identical cables sent tonight by the Secretary- General; U Thant, to President Makarios of Cyprus and the Foreign Ministers of Greece and Turkey, respectively:
I am very concerned once more at the news that a fresh wave of arced clashes involving loss of lives seems to be gripping several areas in Cyprus, with a consequent increase in tension throughout the island. This is all the more regrettable at the time when all efforts are being made to establish the United Nations peace-keeping force recommended by the Security Council. As Your Excellency will recall, I addressed an appeal to all the parties principally concerned,on 15 February 196k, to refrain from any acts which might lead to a worsening of the situation and further bloodshed and to show the greatest possible understanding and restraint, and I was heartened by the positive nature of the responses which I received. I deem it again my duty to address a most earnest appeal to all the parties involved in the tragic events in Cyprus to exercise all their influence toward halting this senseless violence and bloodshed, which,far from facilitating a solution to the problems facing the island, can only lead to even more tragic, widespread and deplorable consequences. In particular I feel compelled to renew my earlier appeal to the Government and to the people of Cyprus to show the utmost restraint and understanding. While-the duty of maintaining law and order rests with the Government of Cyprus, the leaders and members of the Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities bear also a heavy responsibility in bringing to an end the violence which continues to erupt in various places in the island. I therefore wish especially to call upon the leaders anl members of the two communities to stop the fighting and to realize that it is essential for them, and for all other parties concerned, to create an atmosphere of peace and quiet which is the first prerequisite for working out a solution for the future inthe interests of the happiness and well-being of all the inhabitants of Cyprus. *
UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA « WOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD)
Press Release SG/SM/27 7 March 1964
APPEAL BY THE SECRETARY-GENERAL FOR VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARDS THE FINANCING OF THE UNITED NATIONS PEACE-KEEPING FORCE IN CYPRUS
The following is text of a letter sent today by the Secretary-General to all Member States:
"I have the honour to draw the attention of your Government to Security Council resolution S/5575 dated 4 March 1964 on the question of Cyprus. In paragraph 4 of this resolution, the Security Council recommends the creation, with the consent of the Government of Cyprus, of a United Nations peace-keeping force in Cyprus. The formal consent of the Government of Cyprus has since been given and the Council has been informed. In paragraph 6, the resolution goes on to recommend that the stationing of the force be for a period of three months and that all costs pertaining to it be met, in a manner to be agreed upon by them, by the Governments providing the contingents and by the Government of Cyprus. In the concluding sentence of paragraph 6, the Secretary-General has also been authorised to accept voluntary contributions for that purpose. "I have had preliminary cost estimates made on the basis of certain assumptions regarding the size and composition of the force, which at this stage are unavoidably very tentative. It has already become clear to me that some of the Governments providing contingents may not be able themselves to meet all of the costs involved in the provision of such contingents, and that a large measure of financial responsibility may have to be met from the voluntary contributions contemplated in the Security Council resolution. At present, and on the basis of the assumptions mentioned earlier, it appears that the costs which may have to be met in cash by the United Nations through voluntary contributions may be roughly of the order of some $2 million a month or a total of $6 million for the period of three months specified in paragraph 6 of the resolution.
(more ) - 2 T Press Release SS/SM/27 - . 7 March 1964
"I shall be grateful if your Government could make a voluntary contribution to enable me to meet these costs. Since the acceptance of contingents offered on the basis of the United Nations bearing a part of the whole cost involved from certain countries is conditional on my being able to meet these costs from voluntary contributions, I appeal to your Government to make its response as prompt and ge&erous as passible."
UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFOSMATION MEDIA -- WOT AH OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/SM/26 6 March 1964 MESSAGES OF CONDOLENCE BY SECRETARY-GENERAL ON DEATH OF KING PAUL I Following is a message of condolence from the Secretary-General, U Thant, to George Papandreou, Prime Minister of Greece, on the death of the King of the Hellenes, Paul I: "May I express to you, to your Government and the Greek nation my deepest respect and most sincere condolences on the death of His Majesty King Paul. The passing of your great and teloved sovereign is a profound loss not only to the Greek people but to all of us in the United Nations." Following is the text of the message from U Thant to Madame Karolou, Grand Mistress of the Court: "May I ask you to convey to Her Majesty the Queen the expression of our deep felt sympathy in the loss which Her Majesty, the royal family and the people of Greece have suffered through the death of His Majesty the King. Recalling Her Majesty's recent and gracious visit to the United Nations I shall be grateful if you could transmit to her my profound respects and sincere condolences." UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Nubile luforoation United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL BECORD) Note No. 2908 5 March NOTE TO CORRESPOHDEHTS In view of the responsibilities of the Secretary-General under Security Council resolution S/5575 on Cyprus, the Secretary-General, U Thant, has decided to postpone his visits to Burma and Iran, which were scheduled to start on 9 March 196^ • No new date for these visits has been set. \t *r \f * ffX'K UNITED ^v H A T t 6 H S Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, ELY. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Note Wo. 2906 3 March MOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS In connexion with the question and the answer given at the press briefing today by the Secretary-Genesral, u g&aat, ia relation to the question of Canadian participation in the proposed UaaHted Kfations peace-keeping force for Cyprus, the following amplification iar ffia.de:* "There has teen as yet ao eiyiet*! 3Pe$tte«rt to the Canadian Government ; therefore, the question of an official reply does not arise." * *** * See Note to Correspondents No. 2905. UNITED NATJOHS Press Services Office of Pul?$.ic Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — ROT M OFFICIAL RECORD) Note No. 2905 5 March 1964 NOTE TO COREESKMDETffiS REMARKS TO^THE FRESS^g THE ^|<3^AHY«^1ERAL^AT TEB LUNCEEOI? JSf HIS HOHOOR 3g !EHS VSl-l^ZWS ®£^ESK^Z^S ASSOCIATION OIJ TUESDAY, $ MARCH 1 - 1 - Note 3fo. 2905 ^ March Mr. MacVANS: Mr, Secretary-General, Mr. Narasimhan, Mr. Tavares, Mr. Rolz-Bennett and our other honoured guests, I feel highly honoured to bid you welcome on behalf of the United Nations Correspondents Association. It surprised me, Sir, to discover that although you had been our guest as a simple Burmese diplomat, you had never been our guest for luncheon during your term of office as Secretary-General. We have sought to repair this immediately, and we are delighted that you are with us today. During the term of office of your late predecessor, Mr. Eammarskjold, whose memory we cherish, the great Powers often used to say, "Let Dag do it". Thus far, I have not heard any great Power say, "Let U do it". But you do do it, Sir. It might be said, "Let Thant try it", or something like that. In any case, you do exactly as your predecessor did: When the difficulties before these United Nations are so great that no single Power or group of Powers can do much about it, the problems are still passed to the Secretary-General of the United Nations. I am thinking of a recent day which T-Tas a typical day in your life. As I remember it, you conferred, cajoled, argued, planned with perhaps half a dozen members of various countries on the Cyprus question; you also opened a meeting of the Committee on Colonialism; you dealt with Rwanda and Burundi through your emissary there; you opened the scientific meeting; you worked on the Trade and Development Conference which is to be held at Geneva; you attended a meeting of the Security Council on Cyprus; and in. the meantime you consulted with regard to the question of Indonesia and Malaysia. To you that might not seem to be a very (more) 2 ~ Hate No, 2905 3 March full day, but we who are trying to keep track of you get completely tired. Day after day, you appear at the end of the day sailing, youthful and vigorous. Some of us have wondered how you do it. One theory is that Mr. Narasimban has instituted an Indian yogi class on the thirty-eighth floor. I have another theory: that, unlike Ponce de Leon, you have found the fountain of youth. — and you have found it through those little Burmese cigars that you smoke. I think that this may be a very good explanation. On behalf of the correspondents, I would say that we look at you,. not with awe so much, "because we now feel we know you, but with great admiration. It has been said that U Thant has a Western mind: he is direct; he knows what he wants to do; he does it; he talks straight. That would be fine were it not for the fact that most of us have heard Western diplomats speaking in the United Nations, and we know that none of them is like that. We feel that you, Sir, have a peculiar quality, an ability to delve into the heart of any complex situation and arrive at an answer which is very close to the final answer. We have .ratched you particularly during this Cyprus crisis with great admiration,, That was a. very brief introduction to tell you that we are delighted that you are with us. We shall have some difficult questions for you, but first I shall give you the floor. " . • The SECRSTARY-GBMSRAL: Mr. President and friends: I am certainly very happy to be able to participate in this delightful luncheon sponsored by UITCA, under the very able stewardship of my esteemed friend, & John MacVane, whose kind words about me I do appreciate. The President has alluded to the busy nature of my work on the thirty- eighth floor. He also had a few nice things to say about my industry and . energy, and the absence of any sign of exhaustion on my part. It will be of interest to you to know that in my career in public service, and particularly in the service of my Government since 19^-7-j I &> not remember having taken any leave, or vacation. Of course, in Burma our official hours are somewhat different. We have complete rest for half, a day on Saturday and a whole day on Sunday. When I was Permanent Representative of Burma to the United Nations, I also utilized these one and a half days to the full. Since my (more ) Note No. 2905 3 March assumption of office here, exactly twenty -eight months ago, I had seen to it that I had complete rest every Sunday, although I used to "be in the office on Saturdays. But I must admit that the strain is beginning to tell on me to some extent. After these twenty-eight months I am becoming increasingly convinced that the job. of President of UNCA is far more attractive than the job I aca holding. As a matter of fact, there is no provision in the Charter of the United Nations or, I believe,, in the rules and regulations of UNCA that the two posts are interchangeable. Otherwise, I might have attempted to take that step . I shall now be glad to answer any questions that may be put to me. Mr. MacVANE; Thank you very much for the suggestion you made, Sir. I shall not adopt it — although you qualify as a menber of ULTCA because you have made your mark, in journalism as well as teaching, diplomacy, and now~:in the United Nations. We shall now proceed to the questions. •GjJSSTIOWt. How do you intend to use the three-month cooling-off period in Cyprus, while the United Nations peace-keeping force is there, to achieve a more lasting settlement? The SECHBTARY-GEKEEAL; If the draft resolution submitted yesterday is adopted, my feeling is that it is the general consensus of the Security Council that I should try to solve the problem in two directions. First, an international force would be stationed there to perform the functions outlined in the draft resolution. Secondly, the Security Council would ask me to appoint a mediator to deal with the non-military problems of Cyprus. It is my feeling that during the next three months the United Nations will be able to achieve some degree of success, though perhaps not complete success. It is my understanding that before the end of that period I shall have to report back to the Security Council for it to take whatever action it deems necessary. (more) Note No. 2905 5 March 1964 QUESTION: If the Security Council authorizes you to establish the composition of the United Nations peace-keeping force in Cyprus, what factors will enter into your consideration of the matter? The SECRETARY-GENERAL; As far as the composition of the United Nations peace-keeping force is concerned, the draft resolution states that I have to consult with the Government of Cyprus, as well as with the other three Governments: the Governments of the United Kingdom, Greece and Turkey. Pending the adoption of the draft resolution, of course, I have been in consultation with a few countries which are regarded as agreeable to contributing to the success of tb» Wftltal Uations operations. The sole criterion regarding the composition of the international force is, as I understand it, that the countries must "be either from the Commonwealth or non-aligned.My duty will therefore- be to confine my contacts to prospective suppliers of contingents from the dommonwealth and non-aligned countries. QUESTION; Are chances good for Canadian participation in the force? The SECRETARY-GENERAL; I have had discussions with the Canadian Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Discussions are still going on. So far, I have not received any definitive reply. QUESTION: Are you prepared to tell us whom you might name as a mediator for Cyprus? The SECRETARY-GENERAL; It would be premature, if I may say so, before the adoption of the draft resolution to name a mediator. As you are no doubt aware, certain processes must be gone through before I name a mediator, in the context of the draft resolution before the Security Council. QUESTION; Could you give us your ideas about a permanent settlement of the Cyprus problem, beyond the peace-keeping force? (more) 5 Note No. 2905 5 March 1964 *. The SECRETARY-GERERALt I should like to preface my reply with a "brief observation on the functions of the United. Nations in connexion with peace- keeping operations. I feel -- and I am sure you will agre$ with me -- that the United Nations can perform its peace-keeping functions effectively in certain situations. The United Nations has effectively discharged its obligations to maintain peace in several areas of the world sines its inception. At the same time, I feel that there are certain situations in which the United Nations cannot effectively discharge its obligations in the sphere of peace keeping. To cite a concrete example, the United Nations has been able to aeMeve the objectives of the various Security Council resolutions in the. Congo; the unity and territorial integrity of the Congo have been maintained. But there are certain cases, I am sure will occur to you iasaediately, in which the United Nations cannot be expected to discharge its obligations effectively, as it has done in the Congo and in the Middle East and in several other areas in the past. One instance which comes to my mind immediately is South Viet-Nam. If the United Nations were to be invited to perform certain peace-keeping functions or to restore law and order, or to carry out certain other defined functions, I personally very much doubt whether the United Nations would be able to discharge such an assignment effectively, not only because of the inherent limitations in the organizational set-up, the machinery and the procedures, but also because of the existence of the cold war. As I have stated on a previous occasion, since 19^6 or so there has been transition from the concept of deterring aggression, ;as provided for in Chapter VII of the Charter, to the concept of peace keeping without the involvement of the big Powers. Although the Charter of the United Nations envisaged the participation of the big Powers to counter aggression, in actual practice this was found to be impracticable. Thus there has been in the last few years a tacit transition from the concept of collective measures to the concept of peace-keeping, involving only the small Powers. I think that this transition is understandable. I am sure you will agree with me that, if we think in that context and with that background, there are certain situations where the United Nations can do really effective work in connexion with peace keeping and there are certain (more) 6-10 Note No. 2905 3 March 196U other situations where the United Nations cannot do a really efficient job in this sphere. The problem of Cyprus falls somewhere in betveen. But if the Security Council decides that the United Nations should try to find a solution, it will of course be my duty to carry out the mandate to the best of my ability. (more) 11 Note No. 2905 3 March QUESTlONr What effort is the United Nations Secretariat making to study plans for a permanent United nations peace -keeping force? The SECREEAEY-GEHEEAL: This question is also somewhat related to 1 — ' '"'• \ the observations I made a moment ago. It will be recalled that I made a brief reference to the idea of a stand-by peace force in my speech at Harvard University last year.. Since then, many Member States have shown a very great interest in this idea, and many countries — particularly the Scandinavian countries and some Western European countries — have informed me toat they are ready to set up, or are in the process of setting up, such stand-by peace forces. Of course, I have been La constant consultation with my military adviser and other colleagues in the Secretariat, and I have also been in contact with those countries' flijieiuhave shown an Interest u,je ** . . • in this idea. Only last month, there was a conference &a Oslo, organized by several non -governmental organizations, which was devoted primarily to a discussion of all the aspects of such a peace-keeping force under the United Nations . I think a very good start has been made and that, first of all, it is very desirable for us to arouse the interest of all Member States in this concept. Once a good start has been made, I believe that the idea of a permanent United Nations peace -keeping force will be a matter of perhaps a few years » QUESTION; Today's London evening papers carry headlines to the effect that the British Navy rules the vaves for the United Nations. This seems to spring from something that Mr. Harold Wilson has been saying in Washiagton — his idea apparently being that, when a Labour Government has got rid of the nuclear weapon, it might increase the strength of the conventional forces and earmark some part of them for United Nations use, as and when desired. Have you heard of this plan, and what are your reactions to it? (more) 12 Mote No. 2905 3 March The SECRCTAEY^jENEML; I first heard of it when'I entered this room and I think I would have.to study it. . If this idea is attributed to Mr. Harold Wilson, I think I will have a chance to.-discuss it with him today,, because I am seeing him later- this afternoon. QUESTION; What can the Secretary-General, or the United Nations as an Organization, do to prevent a hot war between Malaysia and Indonesia? The SECflETARY-GEHERAL: First of all, I feel very hesitant to accept the idea of a hot war in that area. Secondly, as you are no doubt aware, the United Nations — and particularly my office — has been in constant contact with the three Governments'concerned, and I do not think that a hot war is in the offing in that area. . QUESTION; Do'you think that the policy of de Gaulle might soften the divergencies "between West and East and between the European-American and the Asian civilizations? The SECBETABY-GENERAL; It is very difficult, in ny position, to comment or to pass judgement on the actions or statements of a great leader of a great nation. As you are no doubt aware, I have a very high esteem for General de Gaulle, and my personal feeling is that he sincerely believes that France can contribute significantly toward the building of a now future. Of course, President de Gaulle's methods and concepts may show,a divergence from the methods and approaches of some other leaders, but .weUshduld. not •>. doubt his sincerity in believing the way he does. I am looking forward to a meeting with General de Gaulle in the near future, and perhaps I will be benefited by his views at that time.' . QUESTION; Do your comments about the trend away from big-Power roles in peace-keeping preclude United Kingdom participation in the .Cyprus force? (more) 13 Note No. 2905 3 March 1964 The SECREMfff^GEKER^J.; As I stated earlier, the problem of Cyprus is peculiar, to my way of thiiifef-Sg, in that it is somewhere in. between the two categories I have outlined. Ar, £ar as United Kingdom participation is concerned, I think there is u&^versal recognition of the fact that the United Kingdom has a peculiar relati^a^Jlip with Cyprus » particularly in the context 'of the emergence of that coiintj?y as an independent State. Of course, the circumstances leading to the independence of Cyprus were characterized by certain features which were unique, and -^he United Kingdom is involved in these developments. Therefore, I do not see any reason why the United Kingdom should be — or could be — excluded frcm any role in our Joint endeavours to find a solution to the Cyprus problem, QUESTION: Do you still foresee tension in the Middle East as a result of Israel's plans in rer~Fcl to the diversion of the waters of the Jordan? The SECRETARY -GENERAL; The projected diversion of the Jordan waters by Israel is a matter which is not before any of the principal organs of the United Nations, so I tjn not sufficiently familiar with that plan to warrant any comment or observations. QUESTION: Have you decided on your travel plans for April, particularly to India? The SECRETARY -GENERAL; My trs-vel plans have to be scheduled at least a few weeks ahead of the actual trip. After tin conclusion of the last session of the General Assembly, I mads tentative travel plans for this year — some African countries for February; a few. Asian, countries for March, and certain other countries in certain other areas for April-. As you know, I had to cut short my trip to Africa becauc-~ of certain international developments, and I could not go on to seven other African countries which I had proposed to visit. For this month, I had made plfns to visit a few countries in Asia — including Burma, my own country. Since I left Burma nearly H^ven years ago, I have been back there only once, and that w^s for a period of about ten days. I therefore feel that, if I make a visit to Asia, I must include Burma, As you know, (more) Note Ho. 2905 3 March my roots are in Burma, and I feel that a long separation from my own country would not be desirable. I had planned along the lines of leaving early next week for Burma. But it all depends on the developments in the Security Council. If the resolution is adopted, perhaps in the course of this week, I will have very heavy responsibilities in regard to the implementation of the provisions of the resolution. Therefore, I really do not know at present whether I will be able to make the trip. As far as India is concerned, I have, of course, accepted the kind invitation of the Government of India to visit that great country some time this year. But there, too, as ay timetable is unpredictable, it is difficult for me to commit myself at this stage. QUESTION: Would you catfe to comment on the Geneva talks of the Disarmament Committee in the light of the latest development? . The SECRETABY-GElffiRAL: From ell accounts available to me, both from the newspapers and from my representative in Geneva, Dr. Protitch, I am not too optimistic about the outcome of the Geneva negotiations now going on. My feeling is that, for obvious reasons — having in mind the situation in several countries in "the world this year — perceptible progress in disarmament negotiations will take place only in QUESTION: The General Assembly has designated 1965 ac the International Year of Co-operation. Well-intentionad people, eager to co-operate, find it difficult to envisage this vast programme. What, in your opinion, are the goals of such a Year, and what role can the Press play to further these goals ? The SBCKEiTARY~GE?tSRAL: The Committee formed by the General Assembly has been dealing with this matter for some time. I think that, when the matter comes up for discussion at the forthcoming session of the General Assembly, the picture will be clearer — and by that time, of course, the role of the Press will also be clearer. (more) 15 Note No. 2905 3 March QUESTIOU: Will you run for a second term? The SEGRELJABY-GElvEPAL: I think that my opening statement, about my desire to change jobs with Mr. MacVane, has fully answered that question, QIIECTIOCTr The Human Eights Commission at this session has so far adopted the preamble and some vital paragraphs of the draft international convention on the elimination of all forms of racial discrimination. Do you see in the final adoption of the whole historic draft a move toward implementation by Governments? How significant do you consider the present work of the Commission? The SECRETARY-G-EHEBAL; Yes, I taink it is a historic document, and I am convinced that many Member States will adopt it. Of course, a few Member States will have certain reservations, for their own reasons, but the future is for the adoption of this declaration by all Member States, QUESTION; World-renowned figures, such as Lord Russell, publicly asked the Soviet Government to stop capital punishment for so-called economic crimes. Would you join in such a plea on humanitarian grounds? The SECBEEAEY GENERAL; I am afraid I am not sufficiently familiar with the implications of capital punishment, so I do not think I should attempt an answer to that question. Mr. MacVANS; On behalf of the United Nations Correspondents' Association, may I thank you very much for again being our guest, this time as Secretary-General, and for again answering our questions as frankly as you have done. \* *J IM « VV IT JT UNITED NATIONS Treiis Scv\j.c._£ Office of Public Information United nations, N Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — HOT AW OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/SM/25 SC/2563 4 March OF STATEMENT BY SECRETARY- GENERAL U TFAMT, IN SECURITY GOUKCIL ON 4 MARCH "Since the resolution under consideration by this Council, particularly in its operative paragraphs it-, 6, 7 aad 8> would call upon the Secretary- General to undertake certain responsibilities, I have thought that it would be quite appropriate and no doubt helpful to the Council if I should briefly indicate my own thinking about the nature and exercise of these responsibilities. "As I observed in my previous statement, the creation of a United Nations peace-keeping force for Cyprus could only come about by positive action of this eouncil. This action, as the draft resolution specifies, obviously must be predicated upon the consent of the Government of Cyprus on whose territory the force would be deployed. "The draft resolution, in its operative paragraph 4, asks the Secretary- General to establish the composition and size of the force in consultation with the Governments of Cyprus, Greece, Turkey and the United Kingdom. In this regard, it would be my intention, in accordance with well-established practice concerning previous United Nations peace-keeping forces, to keep the Security Council, which would authorize its establishment, promptly and fully informed about the organization and operation of the force, including its composition, size and command. "On the basis of preliminary soundings that I have taken, without, of course, having made any commitments, I may inform the Council that although the problem of composition is delicate and difficult because of the indicated limitations on the range of choice, I very much hope that a force such as is envisaged by this draft resolution, and of adequate size, can be achieved. (more) - ?.- Press Release SG/SM/25 sc/25'65 4 March 196!* "I might point out, also, that in recruiting troops for this force, I would emphasize on the basis of operative paragraph 6 that the force, unlike the peace-keeping forces in Gaaa and the Congo, would have a fixed and firm duration of three months. The force, thus, could be extended beyond three months only by a new action by this Council. "I would point out, also, the provision in paragraph 6 for meeting the cost of the force, which is not to be a charge against United Nations revenues, In this context, I would particularly like to call attention to the last sentence of paragraph 6, which states that "The Secretary-General may also accept voluntary contributions for that jjurpose", and express strongly the Taope'that substantial contributions of this nature will be forthcoming since it is already apparent that some appropriate States might more readily provide contingents were it not for the extra financial burden upon them ca'lled for by the cost provision of the .resolution. "I am, of course, also giving thought to the question of the mediator which the resolution would call upon me to designate in agreement with the four Governments, and I would expect to be prepared to act quickly on this, in accordance with operative paragraph J of" the resolution, once the resolution would be adopted. "In sum, although the responsibilities for the Secretary-General foreseen by the resolution are serious, they do not substantially differ from past experience and I have no hesitation in undertaking them. "I count heavily, of course, on the co-operation of the Government of Cyprus and of the other Governments mentioned in the resolution, for their whole-hearted co-operation and assistance are vital to the effective implementation of the resolution. "May I also place on record, Mr, President, my gratification at the most skillful manner in which the representatives of Bolivia, Brazil, Ivory Coast, Morocco and Norway conducted discussions with a view to arriving at a resolution on the matter before the Council." v_,v_,v, .V: J UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA -- NOT AN OFFICBL RECORD) ' Press Release SG/GM/2U 3 March 1964 THE SITUATION IN RWANDA AW BURUNDI Summary of reports made to the Secretary-General by Mr. Max E. Dorsinville on his two missions to Rwanda and. 'Burundi as the Secretary-General's Special Representative 1. As a result of the threatening events of the last week of December 1965 in Rwanda and on the borders of Rwanda and Burundi, the Secretary- General requested Mr. Max H. DorslovSl1(,6# the Officer-in-Charge of ONUC, to visit the two countries as his Special Representative in order to assess the situation produced by a deterioration of relations between these two countries and the reports of heavy losses of life. Mr. Dorsinville visited the two countries between JO December 19&3 and 5 January 196^, spending 30 and 31 December and 1 January in Kigali (Rwanda) and 2, 3 and h January in Bujumbura (Burundi). In Rwanda he met with the President and the Government and in Burundi with the Prime Minister, the Mwami and with various ministers. At the Secretary-General's request, Mr. Dorsinville made a second visit to Burundi and Rwanda from 9 to 15 February 196^. 2. It was already clear before Mr. Dorsinville's first visit that any incursion of refugees into Rwanda could have tragic consequences for large numbers of innocent persons in that country and especially for the Eatutsi minority, who would undoubtedly be associated in the mind of the majority with the refugee incursions. The Batutsi minority in Rwanda is estimated at about 300,000 persons, while about 130,000 Batutsis left the country, after the elections of I960 and 1961 had returned an overwhelming Bahutu majority, and resettled in neighbouring countries (Burundi, the Congo, Uganda and Tanganyika). (more) - 2 - Press Release SG/SM/24 3 March 3. The incursions of 20^21 December 1963 did in fact have tragic con- sequences for some parts of the Batutsi minority in Rwanda. r k. Efforts are still being made both by the United Rations and the Red * Cross, as well as by the local authorities, to establish an authentic figure of the number of persons killed. Many Batutsi were undoubtedly killed by infuriated Bahutu -- some close to the scene giving figures varying from one thousand to three thousand and others much higher -- while thousands of others appear to have fled to Burundi or taken refuge in missions. Many of these have now returned while others may still be in hiding or have reached the territory of a neighbouring country. The fact that there are no villages in Rwanda and that the inhabitants live dispersed in the hills further complicates the process of establishing a reliable count of the victims. 5. There not? seems little doubt that the number of victims has hitherto been greatly exaggerated., particularly ia the Press, and the situation has been further distorted by the fact that many newspaper reports have described, on the basis of hearsay, events which took place in late December as if they were continuing massacres in January and February. The sources for the more fantastic figures mentioned would appear in many cases to be suspect, biased or far removed from the area. For example, it was alleged that thousands of corpses were floating down the Ruzizi into Lake Tanganyika -- the official count carried out subsequently by the Bujumbura police was seven. \ 6. It now seems clear that these brutal acts were in no sense dictated by the Government in Kigali, but rather took place in areas over which the Government had little control due to lack of troops. In such areas a "popular militia" took reprisals on some of the Batutsi population as a result of the raids of 20-21 December and the fear and panic which they inspired in the Bahutu population. The Bahutu reaction after the December incursion did result in the silencing of the opposition (UTJAR and EADER parties). Some leaders, whose names were listed as ministers of a new Batutsi government in documents found on the incursionists, were executed on 23 December. The formerly very vocal opposition paper has also ceased (more} - 3 - Press Release SG/SM/24 3 iviarch 1964 to appear. On the other hand, it is noteworthy that some ^5 per cent of the Rvandese administrative services are still staffed by Batutsi, and the teachers of secondary schools and above are in the majority Bstutsi. It would seem, therefore, that, despite the violent reprisals of late December, there is no question of a systematic. elimination or extermination of the Batutsi, or of what some sources have hastened to call genocide. 7« The Government of Rwanda has given assurances that those responsible for these excesses will be ruthlessly punished. Formal assurances were also given by the President of Rwanda on. 51 December that the local authorities had been instructed to do their utmost to avoid abuses and calm the population. In this connexion, it should be noted that there has been an apparent absence of reprisals in January and February despite a number of raids into Rwanda, in particular on 18 and 2h January and on 2 February. It should also be noted that in the attack on Pvwanda ou 20-21 .December, although a Rwandese military camp was overrun, the army intervened only in extremis, stopping the raiders, some of whom had firearms and were motorized, only 25 kilometres from the capital, Kigali. It should also be noted that about 1000 Batutsi living in Rwanda joined -- whether willingly or not -- the invading Eatutsi from Burundi who numbered 200-300. An abortive incursion was reported during the second half of December from the Uganda border, and some incursions on a smaller scale from the Congo border. 8. It seems to be agreed that these raids are the result of the activities of agitators among the refugees who receive financial and other support from various sources for the purchase of firearms, trucks, jeeps and even for the hiring of "mercenaries". It is believed that, while the vast majority of the Batutsi living in Rwanda wish to live peacefully under the present regime, the Batutsi resettled in neighbouring countries tend to be an easy prey for agitators. Documents found on the incursionists of 20-21 December give evidence as to the identity and activities of some of these agitators. The Government of Rwanda is insistent that immediate and effective measures be taken to curtail and control the activities of these agitators and that refugee camps be kept under close supervision with this end in view. 9- The Government of Burundi also considers that the regrettable incursion of 20-21 December was the work of agitators and has promised to control their (more ) Press Release SG/SM/2U 3 March 196H activities and, in the last resort, to expel them. In fact, in November the Burundi authorities had disarmed a large number of refugees who were about to penetrate into Rwanda and had arrested some notorious agitators „ The large number of refugees in Burundi is a source of considerable anxiety and difficulty to the Burundi authorities. While the original number envisaged was 15,000, there are now certainly some 23,000 and this number has almost surely increased since the December events. This is a problem on which the Burundi Government will require the assistance of the High Commissioner for Refugees and other agencies, and at present the solution, whether resettlement in other countries or some degree of voluntary repatria- tion, is by no means clear. The influx of new refugees is a particular cause for anxiety to the Burundi authorities, who have requested the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees for assistance in resettling elsewhere 10,000 refugees at present living outside the three established centres, and in removing 3,000 from the border area to the centre of Muramba. 10. The Government of Burundi has taken certain measures to prevent a recurrence of the events of 20-21 December. While the expulsion of known agitatoi-s has not as yet been confirmed, a company of 110 officers and men has been deployed near Murugama between lakes Tshohoha Sud and Rugwero to create a Military Zone 20 kilometres deep from the Rwanda border to the river Bihar. The fact that, according to the original plan, this company was to be withdrawn on 28 February, is of concern as far as it may affect the future peacefulness of the area. Some 7>000 refugees have been evacuated from this Zone (some 5,000 of whom had fled from Rwanda after 20-21 December). A temporary centre has been established for these refugees just south of the Zone near the river Bukasa at Murore. These measures block one of the main incursion routes, which was taken by the incursionists on 20-21 December. In addition, on 2 February 196^, 107 refugees coming from Central Kivu and marching towards the Rwanda border were stopped near Cibitoke by the Burundi police, disarmed, detained and later driven tack over the Congo border. As mentioned above, several relatively insignificant incursions into Rwanda were reported in January and early February. (more) 11. The Permanent Representative of Burundi reported to the Secretary - General on 31 January violations of the Burundi "border by the Rwanda array. An instance of an incursion in January of 78 metres at a spot where the border is unmarked has been confirmed., and it is probable that there were some isolated acts of vengeance in which Bahutu crossed into Burundi territory . 12. One serious recent development , which should be noted, is the inception of violent and inflammatory broadcasts by the radio' stations of both Burundi and Rwanda each attacking, in insulting terms, the regime of the other. Such broadcasts, as well as heated exchanges of communique's, open letters, etc. serve only to increase tension, political instability and ethnic rivalries in both countries . 13. After Mr» Dorsinville Ts first visit and upon his recommendations the Secretary-General took a number of fcfceps. He addressed a letter to the Prime Minister of Burundi expressing appreciation for the measures the Government had promised to take and informing him that the question of repatriation or resettlement of refugees was being referred to the High Commissioner for Refugees for study and further discussion with the Burundi authorities. He also addressed a letter to the President of Rwanda informing him of the positive attitude of the Burundi Government and expressing the hope that his Government would do its utmost to calm and pacify ethnic rivalries resulting from the events of 20-21 December 1963. The other Governments with refugees on their territory (Congo /Leopoldville/, t?gaa£e and Tanganyika ) were informed of the attitude of the Government of Burundi and of the desirability, especially in the interests of the refugees them- selves, of keeping a firm hand on the activities of agitators. The High Commissioner for Sefugees was informed of Mr. Dorsinville Ts conclusions and of the above letters and was asked to pay especial attention to the efficient administration and proper policing of the larger refugee centres. 1^. Mr. Dorsinville on his second visit was requested by the Secretary- General to advise him on a number of points including an appraisal of the general situation, on further steps which the United Nations might take, (more ) . 6 •• Press Release SG/GM/2l> 3 March 1964 and on the views of both Governments «s to useful United Nations action, such as a United Nations presence, observers, good offices or an inquiry into the basic causes of current difficulties and into possible means of * settling them. While both Governments obviously have different views on the points on which United Nations effort should concentrate, there is apparently common ground that the periodic visits of the Special Representa- tive, as under existing arrangements, are at present the most desirable arrangement, while all means of solving the refugee problem more satisfactorily should be urgently explored. Neither party seemed to feel that a United Nations presence on its territory was necessary or desirable at this stage, or that observers or a commission of iuquiry would contribute to the solution of current problems. 15. To sum up, the best methods of encouraging a solution to the present difficulties would seem to be: (a) continued measures by ail eone&rneil to curb the activities of agitators among the refugees and to prevent the refugees them- selves from causing situations which inevitably risk disastrous consequences for their kinfolk; (b) the alleviation of the refugee burden on the authorities of Burundi by all possible means, including resettlement and even, ultimately, some voluntary repatriation, in which the Rwanda authorities have expressed their interest as a step towards pacification of the ethnic groups; (c) the taking of all possible measures by the Rwanda authorities to prevent renewed reprisals against innocent Batutsi, even if raids recur (in this context the useful contribution of the ICRC*representatives to the current pacification of Rwanda should be mentioned); (d) continuing and regular contacts with both countries on current problems by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General. * International Committee 'of the Red Cross. UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA -- NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/SM/25 2 March 1964 MESSAGE OF CONDOLENCES BY SECRETARY-GENERAL ON DEATH OF MRS. ROBERT WAGNER Following is the text of a message of condolences from the Secretary- General, U Thant, to Robert F. Wagner, Mayor of the City of New York, on the death of Mrs. Wagner: "I am deeply distressed to hear of the untimely passing of Mrs. Wagner. Please accept the expression of my sincere condolences and whole-hearted sympathy in your bereavement." * Tvvjf..vl, iVfL UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, R..Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECQRD) Press Release SG/SM/22 2 March 1964 AIDE MEMOIRE TO GOVERNMENTS OF PORTUGAL AND CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE) Following is the text of an aide meaoire, dated 21 February IS6hf identical copies of which were handed by Godfrey K.J. Amaehree, Under-Secretary 'for Trusteeship and Information from Non-Self-Governing Territories, on behalf of the Secretary-General, to representatives of the Governments of Portugal and Congo (Brazzaville): In notes nos. 10^ and 105 of. 23 November 1963, addressed to the Secretary- General of the United Nations, the Permanent Representative of Portugal to the United Nations transmitted a complaint of his Government concerning an incident which occurred on 21 November 1963 on the border between Cabinda and the Republic of Congo (Brazzaville). The Government of Portugal requested the Secretary-General to send urgently a personal representative to investigate the incident. Following this request, the Secretary-General designated his Assistant Military Adviser, Lt.-Col. L.M.K. Skern, to carry out an investigation on the spot, in consultation with the Portuguese and Congolese authorities, and to report his findings to the Secretary-General. Lt.-Col. Skern carried out his investigation from 5 to lU December 1963 with the full collaboration of the Governments of Portugal and the Republic of Congo (Brazzaville) and subse- quently submitted his report to the Secretary-General. Lt.-Col. Skern's report indicates that during the investigation facts were established to support the following conclusions: 1. Sources of both Portuguese and Congolese nationalities agree that a shooting incident took place early after midnight 21 November 1963 across the international border from the territory of the Republic of Congo (Brazzaville) against Portuguese territory in Cabinda close to the village Massabi. Investi- gation on the spot proved that the firing came from Congolese territory and was directed against buildings on Portuguese territory. (more) - 2 - Press Release SG/SM/22 , 2 March 1964 2. Eased on information from both sides and on the ammunition and parts of ammunition handed over to the representative of the Secretary-General as being picked up at the place of the incident on both sides of the border, it can-be considered as being beyond reasonable doubt that the following weapons were employed: The PAKCEROVICA Mode 3P-27 close-range anti-tank weapon of Czech manufac- ture launching at "least seven anti-tank grenades (shaped: charge) -and probably no more. Three shots hit a Portuguese building causing heavy damage. Four hit the ground without causing damage. . . ' ' " ; • Small arms using 7.92 mm cartridges. Ammunition of Polish- and Turkish pre^World War II manufacture was used, and also M-98 Mauser rifles. Information from both parties indicates use of automatic weapons as' well^ BO this can be considered true even if no factual evidence was found at the place of the incident. Four shot marks were found, three in one building and one in another construction. . 3. Regarding the nationality of the individuals who did the shooting, the information from the two parties was contradictory. Ho factual evidence was found to support a conclusion. h. Regarding the complaint of the wounding of a Congolese Gendarme by gunfire from Portuguese territory, no factual evidence was found on the spot to support any conclusion. Portuguese authorities strongly maintained that •••'•• • • • •...... % • . . ; • • • ' •. the fire was not retaliated, it is a fact that a Congolese Gendarme was seriously wounded, and if he was wounded at the place and time indicated by Congolese authorities the fire could not possibly have come from the same place as the fire against the Portuguese compound. Reconnaissance at the place • : ' ' ••.'',.••''' . ' . • :' '••"•!•' would then support the Congolese statement that this fire came from Portuguese territory. Congolese sources indicated that he was wounded after the fire against Portuguese territory had started. # fv..vt K. tvf. UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA -- NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/SM/21 ECAFE/253 2 March 1964 TEXT OF MESSAGE FROM SECHgmRY^^HBRftlt-. OH 2 MARCB TO TWENTIETH SESSION OF ECONOMIC COMMISSION FOR ASIA AHP THE FAR BAST, IN TEHERAN "I very much regret that because of other dejaaBcLs on my time I am up*ble to attend the opening of your annual session which: Is being inaugurated by Hi» Imperial Majesty, to whom I wish to express my deep gratitude for this evidence of his personal interest in the work of the Commission. Since His Impe-'fial Majesty has kindly invited me to visit Teheran, I hope to have the opportunity of addressing the Commission personally and meeting with you all towards the end of the session. "Asia is at present struggling to build up a modern civilization on the foundations of her ancient cultural heritage, and to blend Western technology with. her own tradition of values. It is, therefore, most fitting that the Economic Commission for Asia and the Par East (ECAEE), which is the foremost international forum of Asia, should meet at this time in a country which is one of the cradles of civilization. "Since the days of ancient Persia the world has seen tremendous progress in science and industry, but it has also witnessed the rise and fall ©f many civilizations. Obviously scientific nnd material progress alone do not guarantee the survival of civilizations or even, nowadays, of mankind itself. In view of the ever-present risk of a nuclear holocaust, the world has never been 3n greater need of wisdom and courage -- wisdom to look beyond narrow national self-interest, and courage to plead if necessary for national sacrifices when the overriding interest of the international community so demands . "But our success in establishing durable peace depends in large measure on our ability to eradicate the poverty and misery which still afflict more than two-thirds of mankind. The Economic Survey of Asia and the Far East which (more) .-..«,+ . .. .- Press Release SG/SM/21 , >...'. ,; -" :.,. ECAFE/235 ; "1 ,' .. 2 Jferch 196U '" t . j is before you brings out the fact that the food output per head of the ™ developing countries- of the ECAFE region has deteriorated to the level of about thirty years ago. Whatever progress has fceen made in other sectors of the economies, this mere fact shows how imperative is the need to ensure a faster pace of economic development and bow important are your deliberations and decisions. : ':' •'"- ";" ' " ' •'"' ''" : •'* "- "In the 17 years since its inception the Economic Commission for Asia and the Far East has shown remarkable vitality and dynamic strength. Your Commission has -jAdt only established'itfelf se; the ©cctoo^tc forum of Asia but also as a Workshop'which has produced some outstanding results with direct ifrpact on the ••eed:iriom'ies of your region. •-••••••:/ - ...... , -.•*; - •*"More recently the Commigsiori's efforts to lay the groundwork for closer and more substantial co-dperatioh la-iasportaat fields, such as industry and-'-" trade, have culminated in the holding of the Manila Ministerial Conference; : The decisions of this Conference stand out as an important milestone in the history of the Economic -Commission for Asia'and the Par East. Here we find a specific area in international co-operation where- progress also depends so much on the willingness of participants to-combine'their forces in order to reap' gredter common and long-term benefits'. Here too we may'expect that greater economic co-operation will be favourable to political harmony and stability in- the area. ' J*"'-'"tlI -wish you all much success in your forthcoming deliberations, and look forward to greeting you all personally before your task is done." ' • V. V..V. * TR JPTv UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/SM/28 EC/TR/39 28 February 1964 SECRETARY-GENERAL'S PREFECT T0t RAUL FRBBISOH'S REPORT ENTITI^D tTOMRCSA NEW TRADE POLICY FOR DEVELOPffiKTl The following is a preface "by the Secretary-General, U Thant, to the report by Raul Prebisch, Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, entitled "Towards a New Trade Policy for Development" (document E/CONF.^/j). The preface was not included in the preliminary version of the report distributed to the press on 13 February. The text of the preface reads: "The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development meets at a time of growing world-wide recognition that there is no acceptable alternative to international co-operation if mankind is to survive. Only through co-operation between all countries, irrespective of their political or social system, can the peace of the world be ensured. And only through co-operation can sufficient impetus be given to the struggle of mankind for a better and fuller life. "In December 19&X "the United Nations General Assembly created new goals for international co-operation by setting a target to be achieved by all develop- ing countries by 1970. The target of the Development Decade is a minimum annual rate of growth of 5 per cent. In adopting this target, the United Nations explic- itly recognized that its achievement is ^ matter of international as well as national concern. And the countries participating in this effort implicitly accepted an obligation to contribute in every way they could to the attainment of the common goal. "During the past year a further vital step has been taken. The idea has gained universal acceptance that the development goals of the United Nations have direct implications for international trade and aid. A continuation of existing trends in world trade, adverse to the developing countries, would greatly intensify the difficulty of reaching adequate growth objectives. It (more) -2- Press Release SG/SM/28 EC/TR/39 28 February 1964 is vital for the world community to create an international trade environment that would facilitate the growth of developing countries, and not thwart it. "That is the basic aim of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development and it is also the aim that inspires this report. All the experience of the United Hations has "been mobilized in preparing this report and the success of the Conference will depend on the willingness of Governments to face all the implications of that experience and take action accordingly. I commend this report to Governments# to the Conference, and to the public generally, in the hope and conviction that it will contribute to a better understanding of the need for a new international trade policy for the Development Decade." y \f y « A A A UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, H.Y. (FOB USE rff INFORMATION MEDIA — HOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Releast SG/P/1 27 February 1964 IRAN SUYS ADDITIONAL $250,000 WORTH OF UHITED NATIONS BONDS Irnn today bought an additional $250 .,000 worth of United Nations b^nAs. Ir»n pledged to purchase $500,000 worth of bonds on 5 April 1962, and the first purchase for $250,000 was made * #*# * UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INrCRMATION MEDIA -- EOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Prsss Release SG/SM/3-9 £6 FeL-ruA.:1/ ?^6h SBC5ETARY-GENEML EXPRESSES CONDOLENCSS OH DEATH OF MEg. ISFAUCHEUX Following is the terct of a message dated 25 February Iyt4 from the Secretary-General, U Th?.,ut, to Roger Seydoux, Permanent Representative of Franca to tlw United Nations, expressing condolences on the death of Mrs. Marie -He'lene Lefaucheux, the representative of France on the Commission on the Status of Women: Text in French "J'ai e'te' bouleverse* ce matin d'apprendre la triste nouvelle de la mort de Madame Marie -Helene Lefaucheux, "Madams Lefaucheux a represent^ la France auprls de plusieurs organes des Nations Unies entre autres I'Assemble'e gendrale et la Commission de la condition de la femme dont elle a ^td la Prdsidente a six reprises. Sa contribution au:c travaux des Nations Unies dans le domaine des droits de 1'homme et, plus particulierement, de la condition de la femme ne sera pas oublide . "Veuillez, je vous prie, transmettre au Gouvernement de la France ainsi qu'a la famille de Madame Lefaucheux mes condoldances et celles du Secretariat." Unofficial translation_from the French "I was deeply shocked this morning to learn the sad news of the death of Madame Marie -He'lene Lsfaucheux. "Madame Lefaucheux represented France in a number of United Nations organs, including the General Assembly and the Commission on the Status of Women, of which she was Chairman on six occasions. Her contribution to the work of the United Nations in the field of human rights, and more especially, of the status of women, will never be forgotten. "I should be grateful if you would convey to the Government of France and to Madame Lefaucheux 's family my personal condolences and those of the Secretariat." * ##* •* UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of. Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF IMFORMAfPIOW MEDIA -- WOO. M OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/SM/18 25 February 1964 GECFLEn!ARY-G3:ffiRAL AT 1097TH MEETING OF SECURITY COUNCIL I deem it advisable to make a brief statement at this juncture of the debate on the Cyprus question to provide some clarification, particularly with regard to my own role. Since the last meeting of the Security Council, and, indeed, even before that meeting,, I have had discussions with the parties principally involved for the purpose of exchanging views in an effort to clarify and define the major issues. Throughout these discussions, my main preoccupation, of course, has been to determine to what extent common ground might be found amongst the parties. The members of the Council have been kept informed of what has transpired in the discussions through my private briefing talks with •each of the Council members. Indeed, I have very little to add now to what I have already reported to you individually. As you know, I have engaged in these informal discussions because it was clearly the wish of all the parties that I should do so, and especially because, in view of the seriousness and urgency of the Cyprus situation, it is my desire to do everything possible to help to resolve this dangerous crisis. It was in this same light that I responded favourably to the request of the Government of Cyprus, which was supported by the Governments of Greece, Turkey and the United Kingdom, and proceeded to the appointment of General Gyani as my personal representative to observe the progress of th3 peace-making operation in the island. The presence of General Gyani in Cyprus has been most useful to keep me informed about the situation there and in addition, I believe, has contributed to alleviate tensions in the island. Members of the Council are also aware of the telegram which I sent to the President of Cyprus and to the Ministers for Foreign Affairs of Greece and Turkey on 15 February 196^ requesting their Governments to use their maximum influence to ensure that there will be no further violence and appealing to all concerned, including the members of the (more) -2- Press Release SG/SM/18 ;.;•-. - ; • - '. •.. [•: :: £5 February 1964 two cooonunities in Cyprus'and their leaders, to: show the greatest possible understanding and restraint. The replies to my^ appeal have heen most encouraging, and I am greatly indebted to the Governments concerned for their positive response, •''•''''•••'•''The discuss ions-'have been devoted primarily to expositions by the parties of their views of the'problem and how it might be dealt with. It has not been my purpose to offer solutions, but as I said earlier, to seek common ground. I think it may be safely said'that from the discussions the exact positions of the parties have emerged-more 'clearly. The atmosphere 'throughout the discussions has been good, and I am convinced that there is an earnest desire on the part of all concerned to seek' a peaceful solution, although, as may be expected, 'the positions on certain key issues have been firmly taken and maintained. There has'been, I believe," progress on some issues while certain basic differences persist. I'need only add that the discussions which I have held on the problem of Cyprus have been'undertaken within'the context of the Charter and bearing in 'V ': ' ' ' '•••"••"', ''"•• ' '• .'j :\'r.- ' 11.'* .':: :' , •"• > :• • '" 'r '• '•" '."" f, ''" i.-T ' mind at all times'the authority of"the Security Council. Needless to say, withou•' •': : t" th- e- Securit' '•-,- • y ... Counci' .••.-."/•l: concurrence: "' • " '", 'Vl ', ' thi e:, questio-.'- •• • n• '.o .f th. "e ' i 'Secretary-Genera -,' -..' l sending a peace-keeping force' to Cyprus will "not arise, In concluding, may I"express the Hope that a"reasonable and practical way out of what now appears to be an impasse''will b'e found by this Council. I will, of course, continue to be available and'to do'whatever may be appropriate in • ".U.'Vj , ; ' -.- • • • ' .• • . • • ' ' ' ' '- the circumstances to assist towards reaching a solution. * #•*# * UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Pal-.?.ic Information United Rations, H.Y. (FOR USE OF IMD'ORMATICN MEDIA -- NOT AW OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/SM/17 GA/COL/90 2f: February 1^64 STATEMENT BY THE SECRETARY-GENERAL, U TKANT, AT OPENING OF S3SSION OF SPECIAL COMMITTEE OF TWB.TCTY-FQUR,* 2S FEBRUARY "S am glad, to have this opportunity to be with you on the occasion of the opening of the first meeting of the Special Committee's 1S-6U session. "Since the Special Committee was established two years ago and entrusted with the task of implementing the Declaration contained in General Assembly resolution 151^- (XV), it has concerned itself mainly with decolonization in the Continent of Africa. As the Committee has pointed out in its report, consideration of the territories in Africa on a priority oasis was inevitable because it is in that continent that the largest colonial territories and some of the more difficult colonial problems still exist. "In the course of its work in 196^, the Committee •will no doubt give special attention to recent developments in the territories which it considered last year, taking into account the resolutions adopted by the General Assembly at its eighteenth session. "I have in mind, particularly, developments in South West Africa, Southern Rhodesia, the three High Commission Territories of Easutoland, Eechuanaland and Swaziland, the territories under Portuguese administration, particularly Angola, Mozambique and Portuguese Guinea, Northern Rhodesia, Nyasalond, Spanish Sahara, Ifn'i, Fernando Pdo, Rio Muni, Gambia, Gibraltar, Malta, British Guiona^ Aden and Fiji. While some of these Territories are well on their way to achieving independence, others of them still present problems which it will be the duty of the Committee to examine. "Although in the last two years a number of territories which were formerly non-self-governing have become independent sovereign States and are now Members of the United Nations, there are still some 60 dependent terri- tories, many of which, though small in area and population, nevertheless come within the purview of the Declaration on decolonization. (more) Special Committee on the Situation with Regard to the Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, U H I T E D N.A'T IONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, J9.Y. (FOR USB OF INFORMATION MEDIA -- HOJ? AN-OFFICIAL .RECORD) Press Release SG/SM/16 TEC/32 25 February PEEKING S^TSMENT BY THE SECRETARY -GENERAL, U THANT, AT FIRST SESSION OF ADVISORY CMMMIffxES OH THS APPLICATION OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY TO ' DEVELOPMENT February "It gives me much pleasure to extend a welcome to this new and very important organ of the United Nations and to its distinguished members. I do so on "behalf of the United Nations family of organisations as a whole} the specialized agencies and the International Atomic Energy Agency having co- operated actively with the United Nations Secretariat in laying the groundwork for this meeting, "The members of the Committee -- seme from advanced countries and some from developing countries, trained in rigorous intellectual disciplines -- are cooing together at an opportune moment. The United Nations Development Decade will soon be at its mid-point. Frankly, much of what we hope to see achieved in these years is still hanging in the balance. The efforts of the world community and of our international organizations must be further intensified and their scope enlarged. One direction of advance -- and perhaps the most important -- lies in the application of science and technology to development; and to this end the Economic and Social Council must have the kind of advice that only scientific knowledge and scientific habits of thought are likely to produce. "The idea of applying science and technology to speed up development is of course not new: the working expedience of the agencies represented here amply proves the opposite. What can be considered as new is the realization that, if we really want to accelerate as much as possible the economic and social development of the developing countries, we must use (more) - 2 - • • Press Release 3G/SM/16 1 . . •, TEC/32 ""/ .: -, 25 February 1964 science and technology to the full extent that they could be used, and must take the new men of science and technology in as full partners for that purpose. • "Lest I be misunderstood, let me add that science and technology cannot be used in disregard of the context. The possibilities they offer raise essentially the same economic problems whicl, have beset the effort to hasten development all along. More than that, although seme social problems are eased when production techniques are advanced/ certain difficulties of adjustment still remain, and nay even be intensified. We will not have escaped froa familiar problems — only we will re-encounter then now with better chances of success. "The organizations in the United Nations family have already begun to take stock of the situation that is emerging as a result of two events that occurred in 1965: I refer to the holding of the United Nations Conference on the Application of Science and.Technology for the Benefit of the Less Developed Areas and to the action of the Economic and Social Council in establishing your Committee. These organizations have supplied you with some of the information you will need about their activities. They look forward to close, continuing co-operation with you in the common task. "The Administrative Committee on Co-ordination, which speaks for all of thgs, has indicated in document E/AC.52/L.2 a number of matters that it considers relevent to your work. I am sure that you will find those suggestions useful. Since the problems, connected with the application of science and technology to development are inescapable, they are bouritt to confront us fron whichever angle we approach them. "For example, it is fundamental that the developing countries themselves will need to acquire greater mastery of science, of the industrial technology so essential for their progress, and of all otner technology. This in turn implies training, research, institutional structures, organizational arrangements, allocations of money, and the necessary policy and planning decisions in the developing countries. . It is also essential that the scientists and technologists o.f the advanced countries should devote more attention than in the past to the search for solutions that are of particular interest to the developing countries. So should the Governments and the private organizations that stand behind them financially, (more) - 3 - Press Release SG/SM/U5 TEC/32 25 February "Furthermore, since we live in a dynamic yorld and one still marked by scarcity of resources, first tilings ought to come first. Correct priorities are needed not only within each subject field -- agriculture or industry or health or any other area — but also across the range of all fields. "It would be labouring the obvious to say that your Committee has a difficult assignment. It is perhaps eq.ua.lly true that the important subject you deal with makes your opportunity almost unique. "Finally, I would urge you to keep the future in mind as you formulate your first recommendations for the Economic and Social Council in the days ahead. What needs to be done at once should be envisaged in the still wider frame of reference under which the recent General Assembly resolution, speaking of the possibility of a broad programme of international co-operation in science and technology, has asked you to advise the Council in 196?. "In conclusion, I hope you will have a very fruitful and interesting session." X"X'X UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Pablic Inf6rmation United nations , N.l\ (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MSDIA -- NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/SM/15 20 February SPEECH OF ACCEPTANCE OF BAIZAN AWARD BY THE SECRETARY-GENERAL Following is the text of the statement* made by the Secretary-General, U Thant, in accepting the Prize for Peace, Fraternity and Humanity for 1963 awarded to the. United Nations by the Ealzan International Foundation: "I am deeply grateful to the Balzan International Foundation for awarding its peace prize for 1963 to the United Nations. I accept it on behalf of the United Nations in the same spirit in which the award is made, as a recognition of our continuing efforts in the cause of peace. Speaking for myself, I am only too conscious of the shortcomings of the Organization. I realize, however, such shortcomings are inherent in all institutions devised by man, and it should be our constant endeavour, despite these shortcomings, to make the institution serve the purpose for which it has been set up. So, we in the United Nations, the Member Governments, the principal organs, of which the Secretariat is one, all of us labour together in these halls in the pursuit of peace, progress, and prosperity for all. "It is my intention in due course to devote the proceeds of this award to some suitable purpose which already has the blessing of the General Assembly. "Once again, I thank the Balzan International Foundation for this recognition of the efforts of the United Nations in the cause of peace'.'" * .The statement was made by the Secretary-General following presentation of - the award by Professor Enrico Zucca, President of the Balzan International Foundation, at a brief ceremony held in the penthouse of the Dag Hammarskjold Library at 5'30 p.m. today, and in response bo a statement made by Colonel Aldo Danifili of the Foundation. UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA ~ NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release 20 February SECRETARY-GENERAL INFORMED OF PRIZE FOR PEACE AWARDED TO UNITED NATIONS » A delegation* representing the Balzan International Foundation called on the Secretary-General, U Thant, at 10:30 a.m. today to inform him that the- Prize for Peace, Fraternity and Humanity for 1963 has been awarded to the United Nations. The delegation will make its own announcement at 5:30 p.m. today. ^ y y _v, « W A A ff * The delegation was headed by Professor Enrico Zucca, President, and Dr, Ulisse Mazzolini, Trustee, of the Balzan International Foundation. UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA -- NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press 20 February 1964 SECRETARY- GENERAL'S COMMENT ON AGREEMENT^ REACHED BETWEEl! ALGERIA AND MOROCCO A spokesman for the Secretary-General, U Thant, today made the following comment on the agreement reached between Algeria and Morocco: The Secretary-General is delighted at the news. The successful outcome of the dispute is an illustration of the effectiveness of peaceful negotiations and goodwill of the parties concerned. The Secretary-General wishes to congratulate both Algeria and Morocco and those African States with whose good offices this peaceful settlement was reached. #-:«-* UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, H.Y. (FOR USE OF ^FORMATION MEDIA -- NOT AH OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SCJ/SM/l? 10 February TEXT OF SECRETARY -GENERAL rS MESSAGE TO EDITORS * EOUKDTABLE, MEXICO CITY • "Some two years ago, when the United Nations Development Decade was launched,, I said that the victims of poverty, ignorance and disease, in the world of .today, look upon the perpetuation of this situation as morally wrong and politically intolerable. I added that from this state of affairs arise pressures for change which may build up to dangerous and explosive levels unless they find a constructive outlet. "Since then, I have reiterated time and again my conviction that one of the most urgent needs of contemporary society is to embark on a joint effort to raise more than two-thirds of the world's population to a condition compatible with human dignity. "I want to emphasize to you the commitment of the United Nations family to a full and total participation in this effort. But the support of an informed and sympathetic world opinion is indispensable, if our contribution in the economic and social fields is to be fully effective now. Such support will be even more necessary if that contribution is to be strengthened and expanded in the years to come. Leaders of information media are in a privileged position to mobilize such support. This Latin American Editors' Roundtable, convened by our Office of Public Information in co-operation with our Economic Commission for Latin America, brings together a distinguished group of such leaders from the member States of ECLA. It meets in Mexico City, and for this we owe a debt of gratitude to the generous hospitality of the Mexican Government and the keen personal interest graciously shown by President Lopez Mateos. "In Geneva I met the participants of the first Roundtable which gathered editors from all parts of the world, including Latin America, and were it not for pressing political engagements which obliged me to curtail my recent visit to Africa and to return to United Nations Headquarters, I would have welcomed the opportunity to meet you in Mexico City. However, since this cannot be, I wish to repeat to you the thoughts which I communicated to your Asian colleagues (more ) -?- Press Release SG/SM/15 18 February 196^ at the second Roundtable in Bangkok three months ago, whom I also unfortunately could not meet personally. I told them that having once been a free-lance jourralist myself., and continuing to be keenly interested in all aspects of inTormation, I Know how difficult it is to focus the interest of the public on subjects which lack those elements of contention and dispute frequently found in the political events which attract the attention of press, radio and television. The economic and social work of the United Nations family is devoid — almost by definition -- of sensationalism and conflict. "And yet, it is a significant fact in today's world, that the greatest portion of the United Nations effort, in both manpower an(^ in resources, is directed and dedicated throughout the world to the assistance of those of our Member States -- and they are still the vast majority — engaged in the battle against poverty, illiteracy and malnutrition. "The telling of this story of international co-operation unfolding daily in hundreds of different ways in every continent still bearing the label of 'under-developed' — Latin America, Asia, Africa -- requires the talent and the sustained interest of professionals such as yourselves, if it is to command the attention and enlist the support of the public. "I hope that this Roundtable will provide for each one of you a useful point of departure for a professional reappraisal811^ re-examination of the tasks of development in which the whole of your continent is engaged, and in which the Economic Commission for Latin America has shared in the past and will continue to share in the years that lie ahead. "I know that you will also be devoting your attention to the information aspect of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development which opens in Geneva next month. Governments all over the world attach great importance to this Conference. The reasons are clear. The developing countries have been losing ground steadily in world trade for the past 10 years or so. The United Nations cannot remain content with a situation in which the growth of developing countries continues to be inhibited by any difficulties they face in export markets. "I wish you success in your deliberations. Perhaps these will lead you to conclude that there is a case for your according even more time and space in your publications and broadcasting stations to a thoughtful presentation of the efforts being made by the world community, through the United Nations system, to achieve the goals of social and economic progress established in the United UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT fj? OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/34/12 EGA/154 19 February MESSAGE FROM THE SigCRSTARY-GEpRAL TO THE SSTTH SESSION OF THE ECONOMIC COMMISSION FOR AFRICA The following message from the Secretory-General, U Thant, to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa , was read "by Victor Hoo, Com- missioner for Technical Assistance, today at the opening of the Commission's session in Addis Ababa: "I deeply regret to have been unable to attend the opening of the sixth session of the Economic Commission for Africa and to have had the privilege of meeting -with the representatives of African States on African soil. "The struggle with poverty has, in our contemporary world, taken on new dimensions by straddling territorial frontiers and involving the affluent with the under-privileged societies. The great revolution of the recent past which has brought about the process of decolonization must be viewed in this context. "Concurrently, other major changes have taken place. The tremendous power of destruction in the hands of a very few countries is also altering the relationships among the industrialized countries, as well as the relationships between them and the developing countries. The need for survival has led to the search for forms of solidarity which go beyond mere co-existence towards increased international co-operation regardless of ideological barriers. In this situation, aid to developing countries, in various forms, is each year assuming greater urgency. "Decolonization is only the first stage on the path towards liberation. It must be complemented l^ythe long and painstaking task of freeing our contemporary world of ignorance, poverty and disease which still cripple more (more) Press Release : , •:...- 2 • •, -.-.., ...... 19 February than half of humanity. IKder-privlle^ec!. peoples must be given the hope that these scourges "belong to the past, in these efforts the task of the Economic Commission for Africa in assisting your Governments is immense, for it is here, •in. Africa, that the peoples and their leaders are confronted with problems of economic and social .development in their most scute form. "Life expectancy is still 59 years behind the level attained by the most advanced countries^ widespread illiteracy still;prevents effective utilization of the knowledge accumulated 'by mail, and industrialization;has hardly begun. The problems are numerous and intertwined, and no panacea is available. Only the full mobilization of resources, both human and material, can offer the hope of a significant break-through. . "What, then, can the Commission do for Africa? First and foremost, it seems to me, we should always keep in raind that the Commission.is the advance echelon in Africa, of an Organization which is becoming ever more universal. The Commission can, therefore, rely not only on its own efforts, but on such means as have been put at the disposal cf the United Nations, and call upon the resources end experience of the rest of the world to support harmoniously and efficiently its own'endeavours to achieve our common goals. It is this universal character of the United Kations which, in the world of today, gives perspective and depth to the main problems of the regions. "For example, on the question of trade'one of your committees has recently made constructive recommendations which are now before you and which you will, no doubt, elaborate further. Such a vital issue for the development of Africa must first te examined in its regional context, and the experience thus gained can then be transmitted to the global bodies. ' '"Hov?ever, no tangible progress 'can be achieved without seeking an expansion of trade beyond regional boundaries, in a spirit of international co-operation and assistance designed to accelerate the process of development. This spirit of co-operation has already made it possible to carry out the necessary ground1- work for the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development which will convene in a few weeks and on which the developing countries have now focused their hopes. • • . (more) Press Release SG/9fl/l2 19 February 1 . • "I stated -recently that the United .Nations cennot remein content with a -situation in which the _grqwth .of -.-developing countries continues to be inhibited by the difficulties they face in export markets. We must re-examine the- • assumptions .of the past^and evolve new. -internet xon.al trade policies consistent ..with the .goals of the United Nations Development Decade. .... "Likewise, let us hope, and- -prepare ourselves for th? day of • anoth«gj-.. . noble venture when., with, the unique strength derived • from its universal •-.; approach, .the. United Nations; might ploy a part . in. putting to work for. develop- ment the resources at present consumed -by armaments.L - . "The universal character of ,our Organization does not result from : numerical membership only but from the contribution that its Member ..States make to.it through the variety and- richness of their cultural .backgrounds, • a:nd the diversity of their -political -systems > and through the basic 'unity of thei-r aspirations '.and the strength of • their goodwill. Your Commission, re- flecting ! the' weight, and -the pulse, of a '.young -and -dynamic Continent, eager to improve the .lives of its people , and fully conscious of the:. paramount importance of peaceful objectives of development and of the priority to- be given--to them, has its own place .and function in the Organization.' - :'• --../-"'Before :the Economic Commission for Africa was. born, her sister :- •-.Commission's in 'Asia, Latin America and Europe had a full decade to collect data and information, .to prepare studies, to consider the main issues at stake in their regions and to work- out solutions. They were thus well prepared to embark vigorously upon operational activities in. their own regions;. •• . , . . . •••' "Your Commi'SE ion- cannot afford to follow the same path.-- It was/ and it still is, confronted with a dual role; that of escertaining and diagnosing ithe1 present state of the economies of its members, and tha'2' of embarking upon the. intricate, task' of coping with problems in .numerous .fields, while concen- trating on those strategic areas where it's present 'resources can be best utilized. .-..--. "The results already achieved under the able and devoted leadership of Mr. Gardiner*are impressive. I refer more particularly to the assistance given to the Governments of Africa by the Commission and its secretariat in establishing, "in- the 'distinctive economic setting of Africa, regional or sub- (more) * Robert K.A. Gardiner, Executive Secretary of EGA. Press Release SG/SM/12 19 February regional institutions designed to overcome the limitations imposed by the splitting up of African economies and to make rational use of all available resources. "VI.n this connexion, the signing of the Agreement setting up the African Development Bank is indeed a milestone along the path of African development through joint efforts. You have also before you the draft statutes of the African Institute for Economic Development and Planning which has, in fact, thanks to the eagerness of your Governments, already opened its doors and embarked on the initial courses of training. The serious efforts made to explore the possibilities of an African Common Market, or a series of sub- regional markets; to set up an African Payments and Clearing Union; and to promote industrialization on & sub-regional scale — all these efforts are indications of the awareness on the part of African countries of their need for economic integration and of the boldness of their vision. The recent opening of sub-regional offices in Iftjeaka, Niamey and Tangiarg* will enable the secretariat of the Commission to be in closer contact with areas where its service's are needed most. "It is sometimes alleged that the old concept of an international division of labour is being revived in a new guise. Although international economic specialization is still required, we should not regard it as a step backwards towards an obsolete form of relationship, but rather as a fresh approach enriched by experience and based upon a more rational and human under- standing of the economic forces at play. "The African contribution should be seen within this perspective, embodying complementarity and equality of economic partnership. It would be presumptuous to say that an over-all African economic approach has already been developed. But the formulation of such an approach has certainly begun. I am deeply convinced that this Commission will play an important role in this common endeavour of its members. (more) * Lusaka is in Northern Rhodesia, Niamey in Niger and Tangiers in Morocco. - 5 - Press Release SG/SM/12 19 February "I cannot close these brief remarks without paying tribute to the establishment last May., In this very hall, of the Organization of African Unity. This event reflects a renewed determination on the part of independent African nations to join their destinies in reaching out for a brighter future. I am confident that there will be harmony and fruitful co-operation between the United Nations Economic Ccrjmission for Africa end the Organization of African Unity. Both of these organs of regional co-operation reflect the noble aspirations of the African Governments and peoples. "I extend to your Commission my sincere best wishes for success in its deliberations." * «** # UNITED NATIONS Prose Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — WOT AW OFFICIAL BECORD) Press Release SG/SM/11 15 Febr OF APPEAL FROM EECRETARY-GEITSR.^ REGARDING SIFiaTIOIT II-J CYPRUS Following is the text of an appeal sent today by the secretary-General, U Thant, to the President of Cyprus and the Foreign Ministers of Greece and Turkey:* "I feel impelled to let your Excellency know how gravely concerned I am about the apparently deteriorating situation regarding Cyprus, being fully aware as I am of the difficulties and dangers inherent in that situation. As Secretary-General, I consider it to be my duty to address a most urgent appeal to the Governments of Cypras, Greece and Turkey to refrain from any acts which might lead to a worsening of the situation and further bloodshed, and I would earnestly request the three Governments to use their maximum, influence to ensure that there will be no further violence. "It is manifest that sound solutions cannot be found in an atmosphere of violence and "bloodshed* I therefore appeal to all concerned including the members of the two communities in Cyprus and their leaders to show the greatest possible under standing and restraint, particularly at this time when the Security Council is being convened to seek a solution to the difficulties confronting Cyprus, "Highest consideration." * This message has also been transmitted to the Government of the United Kingdom. UNITED NATIONS •••'• Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. •' '(FOR USE OF ' ^FORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/SM/10 12 February 1 •"•'•' LETTERS EXCHANGED BETWEEN PERMANENT REFRESENTATIVg ' OF THAILAND AND SECRETARY-GMERAL Following are the texts of letters exchanged between Somchai Anuman- Rajadhon, Permanent Representative of Thailand to the United Nations, and the Secretary-General, U Thant:. 'tetter dated 10 February 1964 from Mr. Anuman-Rajadhon to the Secretary-General: : "I have the honour to refer to your communications dated 7 and 8 February 1964 on the subject of the supervision of the cease-fire in Borneo/Kalimantan and -to .-transmit to you herewith clarifications from the Government of Thailand- on certain points concerning the supervision of the cease-fire as requested in your communications under reference: • "1. The three Governments request that the Secretary-General appoints the Government of Thailand to supervise the cease-fire. (more) - 2 - Press Release SG/SM/10 12 February Letter dated 11 February 1964 from the Secretary -General to Mr. Anuman- Rajadhon : "I have the honour to refer to your communication dated 10 February 196^ on the supervision of the cease-fire in Borneo/Kalimantan, transmitting the clarifications which the Government of Thailand has given on certain points raised in my letter to you of 8 February 196^. "I am most grateful to your Government for having responded so promptly to my request for clarification and I wish to assure you that I have given very careful consideration to the four points contained in your letter. As you will recall, I had communicated to the Foreign Ministers of Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines my decision, in principle, to respond favourably to their request dated 6 February 19^^, having taken note of the fact that the three Governments directly concerned were in agreement and that they had already approached the Government of Thailand to supervise the cease-fire. The situation, however, as it emerges from the clarifications now provided in your letter, leads me to believe that it would be more expeditious and practical if I, as Secretary-General, would limit myself to tafcLng note of the appointment made by the three Governments of the Government of Thailand to supervise the cease-fire. I am, of course, prepared also to receive such reports as the Government of Thailand may wish to transmit to me concerning the actual supervision of the cease-fire, "It is my hope that the Governments of Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines, as well as the Government of Thailand, will find this a suitable course of action. I would also wish to express my profound gratification at the agreement reached by the three Governments, regarding the cease-fire and at the most valuable assistance which your Government has provided and will continue to provide to the parties concerned in the solution of their differences . "Accept, Sir, the assurances of my highest consideration." * UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, H.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA -- NOT AH OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/SM/9 CO/352 10 February 1964 MESSAGE FROM SECRETARY-GSNSRAL ON OOSGO HE3CUE OPERATION Following is the text of a joessage sent by the Secretary-General yesterday, 9 February, to the Officer-in-Cnarge of t&e United Nations Operation in the Congo (QNUC), Leopoldville: "Please convey to General Ironsi* and all QHUC personnel who hare participated in Operation Jadea,** my most earnest thanks and congratulations. I know that this operation was carried out at great personal sacrifice and under extremely difficult and hazardous conditions. ONUC officers and men continued with their efforts to save life when they themselves were exposed to imminent danger. The individual acts of bravery and hard work of Colonel Mayer,*** of the Nigerian escorts and of the Brazilian, Danish, Norwegian and Swedish aircraft crews, together with the Canadian signal corps personnel, deserve special credit and full recognition. Indeed, the success of the entire operation is attributable to splendid co-operation among troops under the fine leadership of General Ironsi and his Chief of Staff, Brigadier Dextraze. In completing this mercy mission ONUC has won not only the gratitude of Member States whose nationals were saved but of the world at large." * Major-General Aguiyu Ironsi of Nigeria, PoFce ** The mercy mission in which ONUC aircraft and helicopters evacuated missionaries and other persons from disturbed areas of Kwilu Province in the Congo. For a list of those evacuated see Press Release CO/351 and Add.l. On 2J January, while rescuing missionaries by ONUC helicopter from Kisandji, Lieutenant-Colonel P.A. Mayer was seriously maltreated by some of'the Jeunesse, UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/S4/8 10 February SECRETARY-GENERAL RECEBTSg MESSAGES FROM EMPEROR OF ETHIOPIA AND PRIME MINISTER OF SOMALIA Following are the tests of two messages received today, 10 February, by the Secretary-General, fron His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie "L, Emperor of Ethiopia; and from Abdirashid All Shermarke, Prime Minister of Somalia: From Emperor Haile Selassie, dated 10 February: "We have received your Excellency's telegram concerning the emergency existing on the Ethiopian-Somali frontier and we appreciate your concern at the situation. Ethiopian forces have acted only in legitimate defence of their homeland in the face of flagrant and direct aggression, violating the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and the Organization of African Unity. All our acts have shown that we have exercised the utmost forbearance and restraint in the face of almost unbearable provocation and shall continue to do so. We are desirous of putting an immediate end to the clashes, which have inevitably entailed bloodshed and loss of life, but we must point out that the only solution rests in the abandonment by Somalia leaders of a reckless policy of territorial aggrandizement at the expense of their neighbours, which has embraced a vicious propaganda campaign, acts of violence and subversion, and finally direct aggression," (more) - 2 - "Press Release SG/SM/8 ,-\ ..• 10 February From Prine Minister Abdirashid Ali Shermarke, dated 10 February: "I have the honour to acioacwl^ge your telegram dated 9 February and to thank you for your prompt response to our communications concerning the unwarranted act of aggression which has been launched against the Somali Republic by Ethiopia. It has always been the eispresised desire and policy of the Somali Government to resolve peacefully any differences between. the Somali Republic and Ethiopia on the boundary question, and there can be no fairer and more reasonable approach than this once the appropriate climate has been czeated. It is in this conteKt and in fulfilment of its sincere desire to restore pecce in the Horn of Africc, that the Government of the So&ali Republic welcomes and acclaims your appeal for the immediate cessation of hostilities. I wish to emphasize however that the Somali Government has exercised the utmost restraint in the face of considerable provocation by the Ethiopian Government, and while it will endeavour to continue this policy 'it should be appreciated that tension and conflict will always persist as long as Ethiopia continues to flout and threaten the territorial integrity of the -Somali Republic. My Government is fully prepared to respond positively to your appeal and as an immediate starting point wishes -to suggest that in addition to the cessation of hostilities there should be a reaf f irmation by the Security Council of the territorial integrity of the Somali Republic. Highest consideration." # UNITED "SAT IONS ... .. Services ... 'Office df'Pubiic Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOE -USE. OF. INFORMATION MEDIA.-— -TOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) . Press Release SG/SM/7 10 'February ' ••" "•- '"MESSAGES FROM SECRETARY-GENERAL TO EMPEROR OF ETHIOPIA . ' , . : '"•• ' ' -: •••"••• :' •••' • -AND PRIME 'MINISTER OF SOMALIA . . . . ••.-,• Following are the, texts, of messages sent yesterday., 9 February, by the Secretary-General: '. • *••••:• "To His •..Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie. I, Emperor- of -Ethiopia, in.. • .. Addis Ababa:. . -..-:. .. '••• •;.-..••-...... - "I have the honour to refer to Your Majesty's message dated 8 February 196^ inforiai&g me of the state 'of "emergency which your Government has declared "in the border region" with the Republic of Somalia, and of armed clashes which have occurred between 'the 'forces of Ethiopia and Somalia at Tog Wajaleh. It is with the deepest" concern that I have learned of the armed action involving 'troops' of Ethiopia and Somalia and of the consequent deterioration of relations between the two countries. 'In 'the light' of these circumstances I wish to convey to Your Majesty my most 'earnest appeal for the restoration of peace in the troubled area. The immediate cessation of hostilities by both countries would be a noble demonstration of their adherence to the principle of resolving international disputes by peaceful means, a principle which is common to the United Nations and to the Organization of African Unity. There is at this juncture a clear need for the exercise of the utmost restraint in order that efforts may be made to seek a durable solution to the border problems which have been disturbing relations between the two neighbouring countries. I know of Your Majesty's devotion to the ideals pf peace and international under- standing and have full confidence in your desire to resolve this delicate situation through the procedures 'For the pacific settlement of disputes. I am also sending a similar appeal to the Prime Minister of Somalia. Highest consideration." (more ) - 2 - Press Release SG/SM/7 10 February To His Excellency Mr. Abdirashid Shermarke, Prime Minister of Somalia, in Mogadiscio: "I have the honour to acknowledge the two telegrams from Your Excellency dated 8 February 1964 informing me of the armed clashes which have occurred between the forces of Somalia and Ethiopia in the border region of Tog Wajaleh and transmitting as well the text of the message sent on the same date by the President of Somalia to all Heads of African States. It is with the deepest concern that I have learned of the armed action involving troops of Ethiopia and Somalia and of the consequent deterioration of relations between the two countries. In the light of these circumstances I wish to convey to Your Excellency my most earnest appeal for the restoration of peace in the troubled area. The immediate cessation of hostilities by both countries would be a noble demonstration of their adherence to the principle of re- solving international disputes: by peaceful means, a principle which is common to the United Nations and to the Organization of African Unity. There is at this juncture a clear need for the exercise of the utmost restraint in order that efforts may be made to seek a durable solution to the border problems which have been disturbing relations between the two neighbouring countries. I know of Your Excellency's devotion to the ideals of peace and international understanding and have full confidence in your desire to resolve this delicate situation through the procedures for the pacific settlement of disputes, I am also sending a similar appeal to the Emperor of Ethiopia." •x- *** * rl rf UEITED HATICHS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y, (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AW OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/SM/6 7 February TEXT OF, MESSAGES FROM SECRETARY-GENERAL ON CEASE-FIRE HI BORNEO/KAIIMANTAN Following is the text of identical messages, dated today, from the Secretary-General to the Foreign Ministers of Indonesia, Malaysia and Philippines : "I have the honour to acknowledge receipt of your message of 6 February 1964, requesting me, in my capacity as -Secretary-General of the United Nations, to designate the Government of Thailand to supervise the cease-fire in Borneo/Kalimantan. I have also' received messages to the same effect from the (other Foreign Ministers concerned).* Having taken note of the fact that the three Governments directly concerned are in agreement and that they have already approached the Government of Thailand, I have decided, in principle, to respond favourably to your request. It is my intention to get in touch as soon as possible with the Government of Thailand, in order to clarify certain points, including the fact that there should be no financial liability for the United Nations arising from this action, and to discuss the arrangements which are required to undertake the tasks outlined in your message. I will communicate with you further at the earliest possible time, in view of the urgency of the matter." * #•#* * * Reference here is to the two Foreign Ministers other than the one to whom - the letter is addressed. UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, H.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — HOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SC-/SM/5 7 February SECRETARY-GMERAL'S SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE TO UNDERTAKE SECOND VISIT TO BURUNDI, RWANDA (The following was issued by a United Nations spokesman today. ) The continuing trouble between Burundi and Rwanda, which according to unofficial reports has already cost a great many lives, was one of the reasons behind the Secretary -General' s decision to interrupt his tour of African Member States and to return to United Nations Headquarters . Immediately upon his return, the Secretary- General requested Max Dorsinville, the Officer- in-Charge of the United Nations Operation in the Congo, to undertake a second visit to Burundi and Rwanda for the purpose of consulting with the Governments about how the United Nations and the Secretary-General might be helpful to them in resolving their difficulties. Mr. Dorsinville will be undertaking this mission without delay. The Secretary-General has today, 7 February 196*)-, sent the following message to the Governments of Burundi and Rwanda: "I note that reports concerning the difficulties along the border between Burundi and Rwanda and related situations continue to be disturbing, particularly in that heavy losses of life are indicated. It is clearly the duty of the United Nations and, therefore, my duty to be as helpful as possible in situations of this kind. As indicated to you earlier, I wish to be of maximum help to you in alleviating the current difficulties. Towards this end, therefore, I am asking Mr. Dorsinville to again visit Burundi and Rwanda as my Special Representative for the purpose of consulting, on my behalf, directly with appropriate officials of the two Governments in order to ascertain and report to me urgently on their views of the situation and on what is necessary to resolve the difficul- ties. I know that this time, as on his previous visit, your Government will welcome Mr. Dorsinville as my Special Representative and extend to him full co- operation in the fulfilment of his mission. You will be advised later as to Mr. Dorsinvjlle* s proposed date of arrival and the length of his stay in your country. PJ.earf* fi.<*.<>.<-^ .t.Wi >,!!e-.'vvrni-io-'.f rny lo fVUt-oh -"'>T>n rule re.*", tori ." UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. '(FOR USE 'OP INPORMTION MEDIA -- NOT M OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/T/12 7 February PRESS CONFERENCE BY SECJBETABY-GiEMERAIi IN TUNIS . (The following wa:s: received from the press officer who accompanied the Secretary-General 'during Ms visit to Africa.) Following are notes on the Press Conference given by the Secretary- General, U Thant, in Tunis on Thursday, 6 February, before his departure for New York. Excerpts from the transcript are included. In a brief opening statement the Secretary-General expressed pleasure at meeting the Press. He recalled that he had planned to visit nine African countries on his current .tour, but had visited only three. Six others remained to be visited.--* Senegal, Guinea, Ghana, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Congo (Leoppldville). He had had to interrupt his trip for reasons given ,in a statement issued in Tunis the day before,* the Secretary-General said. • ."My.Headquarters feel that my personal presence in Few York is absolutely necessary to look into problems which demand my immediate attention", he said-. • . • • U.Thant expressed thanks to the Government and people of Tunisia who, under the'leadership of President Habib Bourguiba, had invited him to visit their country. He also expressed gratitude for the reception accorded him in Tunisia, and particularly thanked Mongi Slim, Foreign Minister of Tunisia; Ambassador Habib Bourguiba Jr.;and Taieb Slim, Permanent Representative of Tunisia to the United Nations, for their insistence that he visit Tunisia at the earliest opportunity. (more) * See Press Release SG/SM/4. 2 - Press Release SG/T/12 7 February The Secretary-fi&nsr&i tho?. easwered questions. QUESTION : As Secretary-General of the United Nations, what conclusion do you draw from the recent events in East Afi-ica? Tina SECRETARY -GipyEPAL : As you know, the matter is not before the United Nations, so I am not competent to assess the situation. I have been very closely following the developments there; as a matter of fact, Mr. Julius Nyerere invited me to visit Tanganyika in the course of this present trip to Africa, "but because of the prolonged period of my absence from Headquarters I had to decline. Many African States, newly emerging nations in this great continent, have to go through a phase, like many other independent countries in the last century. The birth of a new nation is like the birth of a baby. Sudden troubles are like teething troubles, and we are witnessing the same thing in «*(""•»*<• •- East Africa today. I am optimistic about future developments in that area. The next QUESTION dealt with the formation of an African intervention force to deal with African problems, and the transport of African troops from one area to another. The SECRETARY-GENERAL ; The matter has to be dealt with by the appro- priate organ of the United Nations. In the event of such a request from a Member State, rules of procedure are laid down in United Nations regulations for realizing such activities. First there must be a request from a Member State or States to carry out such undertakings, and second, the competent organ of the United Nations, the Security Council, must consider such a request and give a decision. The Secretary-General, in such a situation, cannot decide on his own. The next QUESTION concerned Cyprus. The Secretary-General was asked what recommendations he had in view of the rejection of the United Kingdom- United States plan for that country. The SECRETARY-GENERAL; The problem in Cyprus today is primarily the concern of the Government of Cyprus. However, because of the unique con- •t&t-**t*uftv. '•» stitutional set-up, a few other Governments are involved in this problem. In this connexion, as you are aware, the British Government has been primarily responsible for maintaining law and order in Cyprus since the outbreak of (more ) - 3 - Press Eelease SG/T/12 7 February- violence towards %hs end of last yer.r. I want to take this opportunity of expressing thanlis to the British GovfcruGonv for its timely action. I am aware of" the fact that the British Government has "been in con- sultation with some other Governments with a view to setting up peace-keeping machinery in Cyprus, and I am also avare of the general trend of thinking of the Government of Cyprus. Regarding this question, I think it will be appropriate to make one or tvo brief observations . Like all other problems, the first prerequisite of the sensible soluti.on is ths acceptability of a particular proposal by the Government of Cypru3. In other words, any solution which is capable of being implemented must be acceptable to the Government of the country concerned. This is my first observation. Secondly, I would like to refer to Article 33 of the United Nations Charter. In this context, the Government of Cyprus and other Governments ha- QUESTION; What do you consider to be the most important political and economic problems facing the African countries; and what is your reaction to the proposals made by Mr. Khrushchev in his New Year message to Heads of State? (more) - Ij. - Press Release SG/T/12 7 February 1964 Tbe SgCHETAPY-CF/IJEBflA. r&pV's.1 that the political end economic problems facing the African countries were- inevitable problems associated with the birth of new nations, and he continued: Ihe biggest problem of Hon~Self-Governing Territories is to attain political independence. After the attainment of independence, the biggest problera is to have economic and social development. Most of the African countries are now passing through the first phase. They are ^ust in the early years of political independence,, and they are trying thsir best to attain economic and socJal development. In the first phase the United Nations has played a very sig- nificant role as midwife in facilitating the emergence of non-independent territories to an Independent status. In the second phase,too, the United Nations has been trying its best to contribute towards economic and cocial development of many African States. Regarding your second question, en Mr. Khrushchev's proposals on New Year's Bay, sent to many Heads of State, I want to take this opportunity of expressing my personal view that generally these proposals are in line with the improved international climate. They manifest a sincere desire to ease tensions and to bring about better international relations, and the response of many Heads of State to Mr. Khrushchev's proposals has been, to my knowledge, positive. QUESTION: Concerning the Algerian-Moroccan border dispute, are you satisfied with the exchange of views you had with leaders in those two countries; what are the prospects of Maghreb unity? The SECRETARY-GENERAL replied that during discussions with Moroccan and Algerian leaders he got the impression that both Governments were very keen to settle the dispute in an amicable manner. Indications were that the problem would be solved shortly, as he had noted abundant goodwill and friendly feelings towards one another in both Algeria and Morocco. (more) - 5 - Press Release SG/T/12 7 February 1964 Replying to the second part of the question the SECRETARY-GENERAL said his impression was that there was a great realization in all three African countries he visited of the need for more solidarity, closer contacts and greater understanding. Accordingly, the prospects for a more closely knit Maghreb, which had been the aspiration of all States in North Africa, were good. The next QUESTION concerned what the position of the United Nations would be if Israel carried out its plan to divert the River Jordan. The SECRETARY-GENERAL; This matter is not before the United Nations. For such issues, which are not brought to the attention of the United Nations, I am sure you will agree that in my position I should not offer an opinion. Of course, any time a Member State wishes to bring this up before the competent organ of the United Nations,the United Nations will take it up, discuss the problem, and make any necessary recommendations or decisions, For the moment, as the matter referred to is not before the United Nations, I do not think it proper for me to assess the situation. * *** * UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.I. (FOR USE 0? ESFQEMA2IOH !HL)IA -- NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/T/11 6 February - GENERAL ATTENDS OPENING CEREMONY AT TUNISIAN FOUHIIBD WITH AID OF 1MITSD EASIOriS SPECIAL FU2J3 (The following was received frcra a press officer accompanying the S eeretary- General, ) The Secretary- General, U Thant, who is now on his wey back to New York,* attended the inauguration of Tunisia's Institute for Vocational Training and Productivity, a project aided by the United Nations Special I^ond, yesterday (5 February) in a suburb of Tunis. The institute, located in Rades, was inaugurated by the President of Tunisia, Habib Bourguiba. Others attending the ceremony were members of the Cabinet and diplomatic corps, as well as hundreds of persons from the township. Gratitude Expressed^ by Tunisian President In an adotress, Mr, Bourguiba expressed gratitude for the aid extended to his country. He asked the Secretary- General to accept thanks for the direct assistance provided by the United Nations through the Special Pond and for the indirect aid channeled through United Nations affiliated agencies. The President of Tunisia also expressed gratitude to the international experts who are working at the institute. About 200 students will attend the institute, which is under the direction of 11 United Nations experts. / The Special Fund is contributing $1,018,700 for the project, and the Government's counterpart contribution amounts to $1,625,000. The immediate purpose of the project, of five years * duration, is to upgrade training in order to help the Government with its 10-year plan for over-all economic and social development and with its present three-year plan (1963-65). The project is being executed by the International Labour Organisation on behalf of the Special Fund.J/ (more ) * See Press Release SQ/SM/4. - 2 - Press Release 6 February After the Inaugural ceremony, the Secretary-General called upon Mongi Slim, Foreign Minister of Tunisia, at the Foreign Office. In; the afternoon, U OJhant visited the offices of the Technical Assistance Board and Special Fund in Tunis, where he met the members of the staffs of the various United Nations agencies. Last evening the Secretary- General was guest of honour at a dinner and reception given by the Foreign Minister, Mr. Slim. « 7v UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOE USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — HOT AW OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/SM/4 5 February 1964. SECRETARY-GENERAL INTERRUPTS AFRICAN TOUR (The following -was issued today in Tunis "by a United Nations spokesman,) "The Secretary-General, U Thant, has, with great regret, decided to interrupt his tour ir. Africa and return to United Nations Headquarters on Thursday morning. He has made this decision after receiving an urgent message from United Nations Headquarters in New York, bringing to his attention the latest developments regarding several international issues, including Cyprus, which require his immediate personal attention. "The Secretary-General has seen the Ambassadors of Ghana and Senegal and the Charge" dl Affaire of the Congo (Leopoldville) and has asked them to convey to their respective Governments his deep regrets for being obliged to interrupt so suddenly his forthcoming visits to their countries and has sent messages to the Governments of Guinea, Nigeria and Ethiopia to the same effect," UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AIT OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/I/LO/Add.! k February SECREIARY-GENEPvAL INAUGURATES DAG HfiMMABSSJOLS SQUARE IN BIZJ3RTE Following his arrival in Tunis (Tunisia) on U February, the Secretary- General went to Bizerte to inaugurate the Dag Eamuarskjold Square. The ceremony was attended by a large number of people, The Mayor of Bizerte stated that the Government and people of Tunisia wished to show their appreciation to the late Secretary-General, Dag Hammarskjold, for coming to Tunisia in July l°6l in response to an urgent appeal, and to honour his memory by naming the main square for him. In reply, the Secretary-General, U Thant, said that every country where nationalism manifested itself had a symbol, and Tunisia's symbol was Bizerte, The Secretary-General paid tribute to the Tunisian people on their struggle for independence. He also paid homage to his predecessor for his complete dedication to United Nations principles, for his great intellect and perseverance while serving the cuase of peace. Later on IK February, U Thant conferred with the President of Tunisia, Habib Bourguiba, At a dinner given by the President in his honour, Mr. Bourguiba restated TunisiaTs adherence to the United Nations Charter. He commended the Secretary-General's intervention during the Cuban crisis and expressed satisfaction at the role played by the United Nations and affiliated agencies through technical assistance in helping developing countries in their struggle against famine, misery and ill health. The Secretary-General, in response, referred to Tunisia as one of the most dedicated of Member States. When the United Nations was faced with the biggest military problem in its history, Tunisia was among the first to provide well-trained troops and civil servants, he stated* Furthermore, it was an early purchaser of United Nations bonds at a time when financial help was most needed from Member States. A* V.iV, At. # WWW W UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFOH4ATION MEDIA -- WOT AH OFFICIAL RECORD) • press R£iease SG/T/10 . ; 1). February SECRETARY-GENERAL LEAVES ALGERIA FOR TUfflS-IA, , , ; . • -.. •-.-. -.-..;-.... •.THIRD COUNTRY ON HIS VISIT.. TO AFRICA .... .(.T;iie following .yas received from the press officer accompanying the Secretary-General. ) The Secretary-General, U Thant, left Algiers (Algeria) for Tunisia at 11:30 a.m.* today, the seventh day of his visit to Africa. Before ills' departure, the Secretary-General delivered an address on '"Africa'and the 'World 'Community"**' at 9:^5 a.m. in the Algerian National Assembly."1 'This was 'the first address delivered in the Assembly by a foreign 'dignitary." 'President Ahmed Ben Bella of Algeria, Cabinet Ministers, members of the diplomatic corps and members 'of the National Assembly were present. U'Thant was introduced by the acting President of the Assembly,' Ali Mendjeli. Speaking in response, the Secretary-General expressed his deep gratitude for the honour of addressing the Assembly. He referred to the struggle and sufferings of the Algerian people. He added that, in his address, he was speaking to them, as well as to all the other peoples of Africa. The Secretary-General was escorted to the Assembly from the Palais du Peuple, the official residence where he is. staying, by the President of Algeria. In a farewell statement at the airport, prior to his departure for Tunis (Tunisia), the Secretary-General paid tribute to the Algerian people and Government for their efforts to improve conditions. He thanked President Ben Bella and his Government for the welcome accorded him. (more) * Local time. ** The text of the Secretary-General's address is given in . Press Release SG/SM.J/Rev.l, - 2 - Press Release SG/T/10 4 February 1964 He was convinced, U Thant added, of the dedication of the leaders of Algeria to the principles of the United Nations. The Secretary-General expressed appreciation to the Algerian Government for providing a building in Algiers to house the offices of the United Nations Information Centre, the Technical Assistance Board, and agencies affiliated with the United Nations.* U Thant was asked by correspondents at the airport whether he would continue to keep United Nations forces in the Congo (Leopoldville). He replied that the General Assembly had authorized him to keep the United Nations Force in the Congo until June 1964 and that he had no authority to continue it beyond that date. At the airport to bid farewell to the Secretary-General were President Ben Bella; the Vice -Premier, Mahoraedi Said; the Foreign Minister, Abdelaziz Bouteflika; other Cabinet Ministers; Mohamsd Yazid, Personal Representative of thB^P-resMentf:- aad Abdelkader Chande^li, Permanent Representative of - Algeria-- to the United Nations. Members of the diplomatic corps were also present, and there was a military guard of honour. The Secretary-General and his party left for Tunis aboard a private plane put at their disposal by President Ben Bella. U Thant is due to spend two days in Tunisia, * See Press Release SG/T/9 issued earlier today. UNITED NATIONS • . - Prass Services ... .. Office of Public information United Nations, N.Y. (FOE USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/SM/5 k February TEXT OF ADDRESS BY SECRETARY-GENERAL IN ALGERIAN HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY Following is the text of an address made by the Secretary-General, U Thant, on the evening of 3 February in the Algerian House of Assembly, Algiers, before the President of Algeria, Ahmed Ben Bella, and Cabinet Ministers: "This, my first visit to Africa as Secretary-General, is a great and moving experience for me. The emergence of Africa as a community of sovereign Independent nations is an event without precedent in history. The peoples of other continents have emerged slowly from the dark times of domination — often in conflict and confusion -- and have sometimes taken generations to assume their rightful place in the family of nations. In Africa, no less than 32 nations have gained their independence since the second world war, and of these all but one have gained it since 195&. "This amazing development, which no one would have believed possible even 20 years ago and which is as yet incomplete, has not come about without struggle, without sacrifice and without, from time to time, a certain degree of confusion. But when we look at other similar occasions in history, we see that this, by comparison, has been a remarkably peaceful process. For this relatively very peaceful evolution both Africans and the former colonial powers can take credit. "The United Nations, too, has played its part. It focused world attention on colonialism, on the plight and the aspirations of the colonial peoples. Colonies came to be accepted as a proper subject of international concern. The work of the United Nations on behalf of Non-Self-Governing (more) -' 2 - Press Release SG/SM/3 k February 1964 Territories, its availability as'a forum -where all sides may present their case, and its power.in educating public opinion to accept new historical trends and situations, have allowed it to play the role of midwife in this rebirth of Africa and to accelerate and ease a process which might otherwise have been slower and far more painfol. "Nor do the responsibilities of the United Nations cease when indepen- dence has been attained. It affords a company of equals, in which there is engendered for the new and weak State a sense of security and confidence. It provides a forum where new nations can easily get to know the rest of the world, where they may gain experience, perspective and the habit of working with other nations, even with those with whom they disagree. It offers a place where they can assist in the solution of world problems and make their voices heard on questions of global importance as well as on those which affect their own continent and region. It can also give assistance of many kinds in solving the problems of economic, social and institutional development which beset so many countries. It may even be called in to help in national emergencies until the Government concerned feels strong enough to stand again on its own feet. "The United Nations has contributed in major measure to the acceptance and application by the international community of the precept that, in the interest of all, the developed peoples have the obligation to provide technical and other assistance to those seeking and struggling to develop. This begins to give a new dimension to international morality. "Africa is in a special position in relation to the United Nations programmes which tend to bring to the developing countries the benefit of modern technology. The African continent may very well be one of the greatest reservoirs of minerals, oil, natural gas and hydro-electric power in the world. Coming last in the race for development, Africa should not be made to suffer from any handicap for what is after all an historical accident. The United Nations has a special duty to assist the African nations to assess their natural reserves even if the prevailing conditions of the world market at present do not allow for their immediate development for the benefit of Africa itself and the world as a whole. In more ways than one Africa is the keeper of many underdeveloped resources, human and material. Whenever possible these resources must be developed forthwith for the benefit of Africa and the rest of mankind. When not economically feasible, (more) - 3 - Press Release SG/SM/5 h February Africa should be rewarded In one way or another for acting as the natural trustee of a great share of tlie world1 s natural > resources . "I am happy to recall that the share of Africa in the United Nations Technical Assistance Programme has grown from 17-9 pe*1 cent in I960 to 32.8 per cent in 1963-61V. In the field of pre-investment activities as financed "by the United Nations Special Fund which is directly related to the development of human and natural resources the share of Africa has gone from 8.8 per cent in 1959 to 32.5 per cent in ~L96j>, the last programme approved in January reaching 39 - 3 Pe*" cent. "Such are the contributions which the United Nations can make, or is making, to the well-being of emergent Africa. In return, the new States can give, and have already given, to the Organization a new vitality, a new realism, a broader horizon and perspective, a fresh view and a sense o-f the future, all of which are invaluable to a great and dynamic institution. Many African States have already also made a most significant practical contribution to the work of the United Nations in providing the largest proportion of contingents to the United Nations Operation in the Congo, which is by far the largest and most complex peace-keeping operation ever undertaken by the United Nations. "A large part of mankind, and especially is this true of that smaller part comprising the fortunate, tends to be Conservative and to view change and historic development of any kind with extreme apprehension. Such apprehension has often been expressed in the last ten years, especially in relation to the possible effects of the vast increase in the membership of the United Nations upon the future ability of the organs of the Organization to reach responsible decisions. "So far, at least, this apprehension has proved unjustified and it is, therefore, less and less frequently expressed. Instead, the United Nations is well on the way to becoming what it was always supposed to become — an Organization in which are represented all of the peoples of the world, and, what is far more remarkable, an organization which represents their best common interests. Certainly the old groupings, the balances and concentrations of power, have changed or are changing. The basis of international action is now more broadly based than ever before. In my view, this is an eminently desirable development which should give greater, rather than less, stability to the world order and to man' s efforts to construct a solid basis for peace and prosperity on our planet. Most of the developed countries (more) Press Release SG/SM/3 4 February 1964 have been through a similar process of broadening the basis of popular participation in power, culminating in the achievement of varying forms and degrees of working democracy. In the United Nations it is our duty to prove that such a development is as desirable and rewarding on the international plane as it has long proved to be on the national plane. I believe that the new countries in the United Nations, which are predominantly the countries of Africa, are playing a leading role in this important demonstration. "Emergence from colonial status is naturally and inescapably a difficult process. There are many obstacles, political, economic, administrative, institutional and psychological to be overcome before a normal state of equilibrium and activity can be reached. I know this well from my own country's experience. I should like to take this opportunity, therefore, to pay tribute to the independent peoples of Africa and their leaders for the great sense of responsibility and, if I may say so, common-sense, with which they have taken up their new destinies and their new duties, "As in every region of the world, the aims and aspirations of the different countries of Africa do not coincide, and may often conflict, with each other. Diversity of tradition, character and resources are, as in most continents, a natural feature of the African scene and give it much of its great interest and vitality. Accepting this fact of life on this continent, African leaders have at least begun to recognize also the over- riding importance of the common interests of the African countries -- the fact that together they can achieve far more than any one country on its own, no matter what their differences. I believe the sheer weight of logic and events on this continent will compel this recognition to an ever-increasing extent. "The concept of African unity, so stirringly evoked and formulated at the Addis Ababa Conference last year, is a noble and historic one. It will often be difficult to live up to this great idea in the days to come, but I believe that the realism, the idealism and the pragmatic sense of African leaders will win out over smaller divisive interests, "The desire to fashion its own future in its own way is the life-blood of a patriotic independent people. It was, and is, the mainspring of the struggle for independence. But to have the maturity to realize that (more) - 5 - Press Release SG/SM/3 4 February 1964 independence is safer, and roore free to express itself, within a larger voluntary system of interdependence is already a tremendous political and economic step forward. It is, in fact, what the Charter demands of the whole community of nations, although in the United Sfations we are still struggling hard to attain meaningful recognition of this valid and essential principle. "The peoples and leaders of Africa have here the opportunity of organizing a system in which national spirit, action and policy can be brought into harmony within a larger unity for the general good of all peoples. There have already "been promising signs in the past year — I think, for example, of the resolution, within the framework of African unity and with the assistance of leaders of other African countries, of the differences between Algeria and Morocco. I recall also African solidarity in responding last fall to the appeal of the Government of the Republic of the Congo (Leopoldville) for continuing United Nations military assistance until the end of June 196^. I hope and believe that, as the strength and prestige of the Organization for African Unity is built up, other results of importance to the whole world may follow -- the denuclearization of Africa, for example. If this concept of unity can be fostered and developed in practice, the nations of Africa will indeed be showing the world real leadership in the evolution of political thought and institutions. "The peoples of Africa have, in the past, especially been the victims of an odious human aberration, an experience which is also, perhaps, an important factor in their present solidarity -- I refer to racial discrimina- tion. This is a long and dismal story, too well-known to be gone into now in its tragic detail. It is to the credit of our times that racial discrimination is now widely recognized in the international community as a consummate and intolerable evil. In saying this I do not for a moment underestimate the deep scars which this perversity of men leaves upon its victims. Hor do I wish to pretend that the evil is anywhere near to being eradicated. I know too well that it still exists in its most virulent form, and even seeks to expand, in one section of this great continent, and elsewhere in the world as well. It is one of our most difficult and important tasks in the United Nations to find a way of ending this sickening anomaly and .meanwhlie, to p.urU th.a rHpxra.s-tvroys r^Bul.t.s which it inevitably brings to all concerned. (more) - 6 - Press Release SG/SM/3 >' '"' " ' ...... ' ' k February "But I mention this bitter subject here for a different reason. The proponents of racial discrimination have historically been the most emotionally backward and the most spiritually bankrupt members of the human race. Their sickness really arises from a sense of fear and insecurity rather than frcm a superior ..pride. They are peopls, after all, who are not prepared to face life on .an equal basis with their fellow men. I believe that any useful approach to this problem can only be taken with this fact in mind. I understand all too well the emotional, even the furious, reaction which racial discrimination, supported by physical force, may engender in its victims. The disease, however, must be treated as a most dangerous form of sickness rather than as a reason for retaliation and violence -- that is, with restraint, with the greatest care and with the firm belief that racists are human beings, albeit mentally ill, who must be rescued and cured from an .affliction that they . sometimes do not even recognize. The ailment must be diagnosed its course noted, its virulence isolated, prescribed for and all possible cures tried. Otherwise hate will breed hate and violence will breed violence in a disastrous and vicious circle. "It is easy for me to speak without passion on this subject since I myself am not personally a victim either of the disease or of its conse- quences. I can only assure the sufferers — on this continent and elsewhere — of my most anxious concern to remedy the present state of affairs . I can only pledge all my best and most urgent efforts to finding a cure, the nature of which I do not yet even know, and to do so before the catastrophe of violent racial conflict erupts in parts of this continent. I hope that the group of distinguished experts whom I have recently appointed to study the problem in pursuance of a Security Council resolution, may be able at least to give some guidance in the right direction. I have no novel or sensational course of action to propose. "As Secretary-General of the United Nations I must also look further than the immediate — and appalling — situation. There is the clear prospect that racial conflict, if we cannot curb and, finally, eliminate it, will grow into a destructive monster compared to which the .religious or ideological conflicts of the past and present will seem like small family quarrels. Such a conflict will eat away the possibilities for good of all that mankind has hitherto achieved and reduce men to the lowest and most (more) Press Release SG/SM/3 4 February "bestial level of intolerance and hatred. This, for the sake of all our children, whatever their race and colour, must not be permitted to happen. "Thinking of the possible cons^cu^rces and of all the past injustices — almost entirely, I regret to say, attributable to the prejudices. attitudes and mistaken ideas of non-Africans -- I do not feel embarrassed to appeal to all Africans -co view this problem as a world problem to be solved at all costs, and peacefully if possible. I do not feel hesitant in appealing, even to -one victims of prejudice, for restraint and under- standing in dealing vith it, fcr nothing less will do, if we are to make a new world which will fulfil the promise of all our generous ideas and of our immense possibilities, "I likewise ™ake bold to caution those 'who have suffered from racial prejudice rot themselves to fall a prey to this wicked virus when the tables are turned in the power structure. Racial prejudice is fatally erosive in any society, whatever the colour of those exercising it and of those against whom it is exercised. "I do not mean to suggest for a moment that firmness, indomitable resolution and a determined will to victory are not essential in this struggle. I only ask that every action, every attitude, every expression of opinion or sentiment be weighed carefully both with the ultimate end and with the terrible risks in view. I say this with the interest of both Africans and non-Africans in mind. I mentioned earlier a way in which Africa may already be shoving, by political maturity, a new path to the other peoples of this earth. The racial question is an infinitely greater and more fundamental challenge, which has a special meaning for Africans. Here also an African example and an African lead, however much of an effort of magnanimity and self --control it may demand, could also gloriously show the way to others . "Having said that, however, let no one in Africa or elsewhere harbour for a moment any illusion ths-t any practice of racial discrimination has any future anywhere on this continent or can long survive here. Discrimination against an African anywhere on this continent is an insult to every African on it in whatever count ry. Indeed, it is an insult to men of good frill everywhere . Those who would cultivate racial discrimination must bear this in mind. They are cultivating trouble and they can only reap disaster. (more) - 8 - Press Release SG/SM/3 k February "However bitter the problems of the present, we must, to measure our actions and our ends, look to the future, and now, for once in history, I "believe we can afford to do so. Indeed, if we do not, we may well be lost again. What does the future hold for us? We look for a future where national independence and the exercise of fundamental freedoms can ba enjoyed by all peoples, without fear of some new domination. We look for a future iu which the fulfilment of national goals blends itself with an ever stronger international order. We look for a future in which tolerance, understanding and mutual assistance will make, at last, a reality of the concept of human brotherhood, if we can achieve that reality and free ourselves fromthe shackles of hatred, fear and prejudice, as well as from want and disease, we may hope for a new and great resurgence of creative activity — a vast spiritual and intellectual reawakening of mankind. "I have not mentioned in this speech the great practical and material problems which so many countries, including the newly independent ones, face. We have yet to carry the war on poverty and disease into a decisive phase, and the problems that ,face us are so vast that our efforts in the United Nations and elsewhere seem pitifully small. If ever human problems demanded unity, co-operation and harmony among nations, it is these problems, and they provide a compelling and ever-present motive for our determination to combine our efforts in peace rather than divide and waste them in war. "To help nations to pursue their aspirations in harmony and to make their interdependence an advantage rather than a hindrance, the United Nations, however imperfect it may be, is at the disposal of all its Members. It cannot act decisively in any of the areas I have mentioned without the support and understanding of its Members. With that support it can command possibilities far greater than the individual possibilities of nations and can provide the framework in which men can give freely of their best without fear. . . "We are far from this great aim as yet, but here in Africa I believe the hope is there, and with it the possibility of achievement." * *5Kf * UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, E.Y. •(FOR USE Press Release SG/T/9 k February • ! SECRETARY-GENERAL HOLDS TALKS WTTH PRESIDENT OF ALGEPJA '' ' ' ' Attends Opening.of New Building, for United Nations • -•'•:• - .. . Offices in.Algiers (The following was received from the press officer accompanying the Secretary-General.) The Secretary-General, U Thant, conferred with the President of Algeria, Ahmed-Ben Bella,, yesterday afternoon (3 February) in Algiers. The talks, which continued for two hours and twenty minutes, were described by a spokes- man for the Secretary-General as a frank exchange of views on several subjects. Last evening the Secretary-General was'the dinner guest of Bachir Boumaza, the Minister of National Economy. Later, he attended a reception given in honour of the President of Algeria by the heads of offices of the United Nations and specialized agencies in Algiers. The Secretary-General's programme yesterday began with the inauguration of the "Place des Nations Unies", located in the centre of Algiers. Others attending the brief ceremony were the Algerian Foreign Minister, Abdelaziz Bouteflika; the Mayor of Algiers, Ferhat Belanane; Mohamed Yazid, Personal Representative of the President; and Ambassador Abdelkader Chanderli, Permanent Representative of Algeria to the United Nations. New Quarters for United Nations Offices This eerenony was followed by the inauguration of new premises for the offices in Algiers of the United Nations Information Centre, the Technical Assistance Board, and agencies affiliated with the United Nations. The Algerian Government has made available a seven-floor building, together with furniture, in midtown Algiers for the United Nations "family". At the inauguration of the building, the Secretary-General was received by Ma-Than-E Fend, Director of the United Nations Information Centre] Jaime Renart, acting Resident Representative of the Technical Assistance Board (TAB) and tUrec'boi" of Spe-M al . Fn.n (more) - 2 - Press Release SG/T/9 h February the specialized agencies „ The Secretary-General met the entire staff of these offices, (The United Nations Information Centre in Algiers was opened in September 1963 •) Later j, the Secretary-General visited a small factory and aleo a school, on the outskirts of Algiers, where 120 war orphans are boarded. At the school^ U Thant was greeted with songs of welcome on the part of the school- boys and girls. He inspected the dormitories and classrooms and attended a performance of national dances. The Secretary-General was presented a mosaic frame made by the cM, Mr-en-; ; • A vr'.Sjtl; to a factory run under the self -management system was made by the Secretary-General. He was guest of honour at a luncheon given by Mr» Renart, acting representative of the Technical Assistance Board, and by the heads of other United Nations offices in Algiers. # UNITED NATIONS Press Services , Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA -- HOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/T/8 3 February SECRETARY -GENERAL CONTINUES VISIT IN ALGERIA Visits Oil Installations in Sahara; Attends Official Dinners and Town Hall Ceremony in Algiers (The following was received from the putesa officer Accompanying the Secretary-General. ) -/.-. ' H r •--'-,- •.- , Continuing a tBree-day visit to Algaria, the Secretary-General, U Thant, made a trip yesterday (2 February) to Hceei Mees&oua1, an oil production centre in the Sahaz-a, where he toured the installations and viaited workers' lodgings. The Secretary-General travelled to Hassi Messaoud in the airplane of the President of Algeria, Ahmed Ben Bella, and was accompanied on the trip by the Vice -Premier, Mohamedi Said; Mohamed Yazid, Personal Representative of the President; and Ambassador Abdelkader Chanderli, Permanent Representative of Algeria to the United Nations. Following his return to Algiers, the Secretary-General was guest of honor at a dinner given last evening by the Foreign Minister, Abdelaziz Eouteflika, and attended by Cabinet Ministers and other Government officials. Later, the party attended the Algerian National Theatre, where a special programme was given. Official Dinner Given by President The President pf Algeria gave an official dinner in honor pf the Secretary -General on Saturday evening (l February) at the Palais du Peuple, where U Thant is staying. Earlier Saturday evening, Mayor Ferhat Eelamane of Algiers presented a scroll tov.the Secretary-General conferring upon him the title of honorary citizen of the city. The ceremony, held at the Town Hall, was attended by members of the diplomatic corps and Cabinet Ministers, as well as by delegates to the Scientific Committee of African States, which opened a session in Algiers on Saturday. - 2 . - . FreBs Release SG/T/8 ..' , • • 3 February The Mayor of Algiers, in an address at the ceremony,, told the Secretary- General that Algerians considered him "one of 'the gi'eat personalities of our time" and a "true ' friend of the people". In response, the Secretary-General expressed gratitude for the honour bestowed upon him and his delight in visiting Algeria, a'country close to his heart, he qaid«- .. He paid;tribute to the Algerian people in their struggle for independence. He noted 'with satisfaction that efforts to this end, both inside and outside Algeria, had been crowned with success. He commended in this context the wisdom and vision of General de Gaulle of. France. Continuing, .the Secretary-General stated that the United Nations Charter, in which all believe, calls -on the peoples to exercise tolerance, and to live and let live as good neighbours, for the sake of peace. In conclusion, he wished the Algerian people, under the leadership of President Ben Bella, progress and prosperity. *•• UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United nations, N,Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/T/7 3 February SECRETARY-GENERAL VISITS ALGERIA, THE SECOND COUNTRY ON HIS TRIP TO AFRICA (The following was received from the press officer accompanying the Secretary-General*) The Secretary-General, U Thant, and his party arrived at the airport in Algiers (Algeria) at noon on Saturday, 1 February, aboard the private plane of King Hassan II of Morocco, the first country visited on the Secretary- General's trip to Africa. Before leaving Morocco, the Secretary-General made a "brief visit to Casablanca and spent the night Friday (31 January) in the city of Marrakesh. At the airport in Algiers, the Secretary-General was accorded military honours by a contingent of the Algerian army and a military band, which played the Algerian national anthem. The dignitaries at the airport to greet the Secretary-General were headed by the President of Algeria, Ahmed Ben Bella. Others present were the Vice-Premier, Mohamedi Said; the entire Cabinet; Ambassador Abdelkader Chanderli, Permanent Representative of Algeria to the United Nations; members of the diplouatic corps and of the National Assembly; and representatives of national and professional organizations. President Ben Bella introduced the Secretary-General to the members of the diplomatic corps and reviewed the guard of honour. After a brief talk with the President, the Secretary-General proceeded to the Palais du Peuple, the official residence where he is staying. On Saturday afternoon, the Secretary-General paid a courtesy call on the President at Villa Joly, his residence, and then visited Abdelaziz Bouteflika, Minister of Foreign Affairs. # • •• : ..•:..-: UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information ...... United Nations, N,Y. . (FOR USE OF BIFORMATION MEDIA -- WOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/T/5'" . 31 January 196^ . •- ; 'SECRETARY-.GENERAL-HOLDS TALKS WITH KING HASSAN II . • . . -' -.•.:••.•-:•. AMD 'GOVSRNMEEr MINISTERS US MOROCCO (The following was received from the press officer accompanying the Secretary-General.) • The 'Secretary-General, U Thaht, who is now visiting Morocco, had • .. a private audience with Eis Majesty, King Eassan II,in Rabat .on Thursday night, 30 January, to discuss .major African problems before the United Nations. Earlier in the evening, the Secretary-General attended an official dinner "given in his honour by'Driss Slaoui, acting Foreign Minister. On Thursday morning, the Secretary-General first called on Moulay Ahmed Alaoui, Minister of' Information, TOurism' and' Fine Arts. This was followed by a visit to Mohamed Behhima, Minister-of Public Works,' in which the discussion centred on United. Nations technical assistance projects in Morocco. The Secretary-General then opened an exhibition of United Nations stamps and later had an"hour's talk with'the Prime Minister, Ahmed-Bahnini, during which they discussed African problems'and the United Nations role in dealing with them. Next, U Thant called on M'Fedel Cherkaoui, President of the Chamber of Counsellors. On Thursday afternoon, the Secretary-General's programme included talks with Thami Ouazzani, Minister of Labour and Social Affairs, and Abdelkrim Khatib, President of the House of Representatives; and a reception given by Karol Kraczkiewicz, Resident Representative of the United Nations Technical Assistance Board and Director of Special Fund Programmes in Morocco. State Dinner Given by King Hassan II A State dinner, served in traditional Moroccan style, was given by King Hassan II in honour of the Secretary-General on Wednesday night (29 January). It was attended by all members of the diplomatic corps and the Moroccan Cabinet. (more) - 2 - Press Release SG/T/5 51 January 1964 Following the "banquet, King Hassan made a public address, which was recorded and televised. In this statement, the King paid tribute to U Thant, the man and the statesman, who had been destined to undertake the gigantic task of Secretary-General of the United Nations, His Majesty stated. King Hassan further expressed gratification and pride at the fact that U Thant, as the leading member of the African-Asian Group in 19^1, had been chosen as Secretary-General. Morocco's faith in the Secretary-General and in the United Nations Charter, towards the triumph of morality and of good over evil, was reiterated in the statement. In conclusion, King Hassan extended an invitation to the Secretary- General to return to Morocco to spend more time among Moroccans, who respect and trust him. Response by Secretary-General In response to the statement, U Thant expressed thanks for the tribute paid to him. He also thanked the people and Government of Morocco for their welcome on his first visit to an African country. He further paid tribute to the late King Mohazued V, who led Morocco's struggle for independence, and commended Morocco's role in supporting the activities of the United Nations and carrying a heavy responsibility as a member of the Security Council. Concluding, the Secretary-General said the United Nations was the only hope for humanity and must develop into an effective instrument for peace. UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA ~ NOT AW OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release 29 January SECEBIARY-GENEB.AL ARRIVES IN RABAT (The following was received from the press officer accompanying the Secretary-General.) The Secretary-General, U Thant, arrived in Rabat (Morocco) at 11:JO a.m. today. He was received by the Prime Minister, Ahmed Bahnini; the acting Foreign Minister, Driss SLaouij Ahaed Taibi Benhima, Pemanent Representative of Morocco to the United Nations; and members of the diplomatic corps. After reviewing a military guard of honour, the Secretary-General was introduced by the Prime Minister to members of the diplomatic corps. He later recorded a brief message for Moroccan radio and television. U Thant expressed his gratitude to King Eassan II, the Moroccan Government and people for ^nviting him to visit Morocco on his first trip to an African country. He paid tribute to Morocco for its dedication to the United Nations Charter and its contribution to United Nations efforts. At the official guest house where he is staying, the Secretary-General received Ahmed Balafrej, Personal Representative of the King, who called to convey the greetings of His Majesty. After a private luncheon at the guest house, the Secretary-General called on the acting Foreign Minister and later placed a wreath on the tomb of the late King Mohammed V. This evening the Secretary-General was guest of honour at a State dinner given by King Hassan and attended by members of the Moroccan Government and diplomatic corps. ##* UHITED NATIONS Press Services OfiM.ee of Fablie Xc United Katlc^c* M.Y. (FOR uss OF IHFOBMATIOI MEEIA. ~~ KOT AN OFFICIAL RSCCRD) press Relsass SG/T/3 29 January 1964 I£A\TES FARI3 ?OR MOROCCO (The following was received from the press officer accotTpanying the Secretary-General. ) The Secretary- General, U Thant, aoad Ms party arrived at Qrly Ai.rport . in Paris at 7:25 a.m. (local time) todc.y and left at 8:UO a. a. for Rabat, feroeco, the first of the African countries to be visited en the present ts?ip. < On arrival in Paris, tne Se ere tary- General was greeted by Oliviar Delaau^ representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, end Simanuel de C&steja cf the French Government Protocol Office* Ycunes Kelcrouf, Minister, Charge d 'Affaires,, of the Moroccan Embassy in Paris f-;lso welcomed the Secretary- Ger^ral in the absence of the Moroccan Ambassador, vho is in Rabat* Cojament s to Corrg spendent 3 Before leaving Far-is, the Secretary- General was asked by French press cud radio correspondents about his current trip. The Secretary-General said he was looking forward to bis first journey to Africa and to talks with leaders about eomci^a problems. Asked to elaborate on these problems, the Secretary-Gere ITE.! naid African leaders are concerned, about apartheid, Portuguese territories and development, He explained that, since he could not visit all African countries ut this time, he vas nccepting the invitations which had come in first and, in any ease, he hoped to return to Africa later in the year. Asked about the French recognition of the PeopleT s Republic of China and its consequences at the United Nations, he said it was too early to predict. (For detail.fi jon_t-ho F. 2.) UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y, (FOB USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/T/2 28 January SECRETARY-GENERAL TO VISIT CONGO (LEOFOLDVILLE) Premier Cyrille Adoula of the Congo (Leopoldville) has renewed the invitation which he had extended some tine ago to the Secretary-General to visit his country. The Secretary-General has informed Mr. Adoula that he will include, in his current trip to Africa, a short visit to the Congo. The details of this visit will "be worked out later. # 4HC-X- * UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/A/7 EC/2258 28 January PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF SECRETARY-GENERAL LEAVES TO SEEK FUNDS FOR NEW INSTITUTE Peter Casson will leave New York tonight to "begin a series of visits to more than 25 countries as the Secretary-General's personal representative for the purpose of seeking financial support for the proposed United Nations Training and Research Institute. The General Assembly has suggested that the Institute night be established in the first half of 196\ if sufficient financial support can be secured.* According to the Secretary-General, firm pledges of not less than $5 million will "be needed before operations can begin. Mr. Casson's appointment as personal representative to seek financial support was announced by the Secretary-General on 6 December 1963.** A British national, Mr, Casson has been temporarily seconded from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), where he holds the posts of Special Representative of the Coamissioner- General, and Director for Programme Support. The purpose of the proposed Institute will be to train personnel, particularly from developing countries, for national service and for service with the United Nations and the specialized agencies; and to study the operations of the United Nations family. It is envisaged that its headquarters will be in New York although much of the training will probably be given in Geneva and other regional centres of the United Nations. (more) * Resolution 193^ (XVIII) of 11 December 1963. ** See Press Release SG/1628-EC/2257, - 2 -> • •: Press Release SG/A/7 •..:..- .'••'•••• ?-.:.:: EC/2258 • ''••:•' •' : • 28 January The Secretary-General and Mr. Casson net today "before Mr. CassonTs departure for Washington, the first of about 51 national capitals and major cities he will visit in the next few nonths. As personal representative of the Secretary-General^ Mr..Casson will seek.financial support from Governments, foundations and other'possible" sources 'of 'fund's.' Among the countries'he intends to visit are 'Canada', the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Federal Republic of Germany, Sweden, Uorway, Defliaarfe, Luxembourg, Austria, Italy, .Libya-, .United .Arab -Republic/' Lebanon.,• Syria,- Jprdan, Kuwait, Iran/-Afghanistan, India, Burma, Thailand, Australia,. Wew Zealand and Japan, as.--well as the:1 United; States. ••.... In a letter sent to Governments the Secretary-General expresses the hope that the planned Institute-.will play a key role in the work of the United Nations in coming years, "but observes, that its- establishment "depends entirely on the provision.of voluntary contributions, both governmental and private". He recalls that resources of $10 million should be.envisaged to finance .. the Institute over a five -to >-six .year:. pe.riod. -.. . .- ' .-.. * Note: A photograph of Mr'. 'Casson is' available 'at- the United Nations Photo-Library,. Room-989.. ..- .. .:••.-. JfSf UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA -- NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Note No. 2891 28 January 1964 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS A spokesman for the Secretary-General today issued the following statement: At the request of the Secretary-General, the representatives of Cyprus, Greece and Turkey visited him this afternoon. The Secretary- General asked them to convey to their respective Governments his earnest appeal that the utmost restraint be exercised and that all efforts be made to strengthen the peace in that area. * -KSfr* * UNITED KATIOHS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations,, II,Y. USE 0? INFORMATION MEDIA -- HOT AW OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/T/1 27 January 1964 SECBETABY-GEH3RAL TO VISIT EIGHT AFF.ICAN COUIJTPJES The Secretary-Genaral, U Thant, will Isave Hew York tomorrow evening on an official trip which will take him to eight African countries. The trip will start with a visit to Morocco (29 January - 1 February). From there he will proceed to Algeria (l - k February). Following this, the Secretary-General will go to Tunisia (k - 6 February),, The Secretary-General vill pay a private visit to Senegal (9 - 10 February); and will thereafter continue his official trip with visits to Guinea (10 - 11 February); Ghana (11 - 13 February); Nigeria (13 - 16 February); and Ethiopia (16 - 19 February). t The Secretary-General will be accompanied by Ramses Massif, press v officer; Donald Thomas, personal aida| and Lueien Lemieux, private '• secretary. Pierre Pichou, deputy personal aide, will join the party en route. \ U Thant plans to return to Hew York on 20 February. y t/'_ju « ft A'If UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/A/6 27 January SECRETARY-GENERAL APPOINTS FIFTH MEMBER OF EXPERT GROUP ON SOUTH AFRICA The Secretary- General has appointed Ambassador Dey Quid Sidi Baba as the fifth member of the Group of Experts established in accordance with the Security Council resolution of 4 December 1963 "...to examine methods of resolving the present situation in South Africa through full, peaceful and orderly application of human rights and fundamental freedoms to all inhabitants of the territory as a whole, regardless of race, colour or creed, and to consider what part the United Nations might play in the achievement of that end. . . " * The Group will thus be composed of the following: Mrs. Alva Myrdal (Sweden) - Chairman Sir Edward Asafu-Adjaye (Ghana) Josip Djerdja (Yugoslavia) Sir Hugh Foot (United Kingdom) Dey Quid Sidi Baba (Morocco) The members of the group — except the Chairman, who is now in Geneva — had a meeting with the Secretary- General this morning at 11 o'clock. * *** * Announcement of the appointment of the other members was made on 15 January (see Press Release SG/A/l). UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FDR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Note No. 288U 21 January NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS PRESS CONFERENCE BY THE SECRETARY-GENERAL AT UNITED NATIONS HEADQUARTERS ON TUESDAY, 21 JANUARY Hbte No. 288U 21 January 196U Mr. MACVAME; Mr. Secretary-General, on behalf of the corps of correspondents, I would like to welcome you to this first news conference of the new year to express our hope that they will be many in number and that each one will be so important that it will make "front page or top network news. _ And while, of course, we would regret any crises, we hope that if there are crises, you will tell us everything you know about them. I migl'.b say, in addition, that at pur annual meeting this year we began discussion of a code of self-discipline on the part of UWCA for these news conferences. We haven't finished it and havenrt approved it, but it will contain such measures as the intention to make pur questions short, with only one or two sentences. ;We intend to keep our questions brie to a correspondent, until ail correspondents have had a chance"to address their questions to you. We intend also not to shout for attention, but to put our hands up and to have you recognize us. Having said that, I want to thank you very much. We are'delighted to be with you. Sir. The SECRETARY- GENERAL : Jlrst of all, I want to "thank ••' •.':>":,•. ••'••.: ...... -, ...... -...' . . •. Mr I would next like to congratulate you, Mr. John MacVane, on your election as President of the United Hations Correspondents Association for 196**-. I would also like to offer my congratulations to your colleagues on the Executive Committee of UWCA, (more) - 2-5 - Note No. 2884 21 January 1964 Since I last met with you, ve have had a very quiet but effective session of the General Assembly, This is not the occasion for me to review the achievements of the Assembly, but I would like to say this, that thanks to the wise and gentle but firm guidance of President Sosa Rodriguez, the Assembly established one record which may stand for a long time: it finished three days ahead of schedule. I would like to make one more observation before I throw the floor open to questions. As you know, I am planning a visit to some1 African countries, and I plan to leave New York towards the end of this month, This will be my first visit to Africa and I attach great importance to it. As you may remember, I had hoped very much to attend the African summit meeting in Addis Ababa last May, but was prevented from doing so at th3 last minute* I look forward very much to meeting again sp many African leaders whom I have met in New York, and others whom I have not had'the1 privilege of meeting so far, I hope to take advantage of this opportunity to exchange views with them on the major problems confronting Africa'and:tlie world, and the'ways in which the United Nations could be of maximum effectiveness and assistance in helping to solve these problems...... Ladies and gentlemen/ the floor is now yours, QUESTION; Mr, Secretary-General, in your speech at Columbia University> you indicated a belief that 1964 would be a crucial year for the United Nations. Many of us have wondered on what basis you made that statement, since the Assembly was an Assembly of harmony and concord, so to speak, and the situation for 1964 does appear not as explosive as 196J did, I was .Just wondering on what basis you made that statement. (more) 6-10 Note No. 2884 21 January The SECRETARY -GENERAL ; As I Indicated In that speech, the financial problem of this Organization was uppermost in ny mini when I said that the year 196U would- "be a crucial year in the life of the Organization. I am sure, you will agree with me that the financial problem facing the United Nations today is the greatest problem for this year. I was not necessarily thinking of political or economic or social problems facing this Organization. QUESTION: In the light of the impending recognition of the People's Republic of China by General de Gaulle, could you. please give us some of your assessment and opinion regarding the repercussions of such recognition on the prospects of the re-establishment of the .legitimate rights of the People's Republic of China in the United Nations? The SECRETARY-GMERAL; It is very difficult — and certainly very delicate — to assess the foreign policies or attitudes of Member States, It is particularly 'so when someone in my position has to 'assess 'tnWa't'trtude''"^ 'a^ig Power such as France, whose foreign policies and motivations are almost undergoing a revolution, if I may say so/ I am sure you will understand my reluctance ' to pass any comment on the prospective decision of the Government of France on this matter. All I want to say, at this' moment, is that it is difficult to know the true facts about China. News from China or news about China generates such intense emotions everywhere that it is difficult, if not impossible, to discuss this subject rationally and objectively in many parts of the world. I think our attitudes are primarily the result of mass media, as I have stated on previous occasions. Our attitudes toward China — or, for that matter, toward any other subject — are the result of what newspapers we read, what radio stations we listen to, and also, I think, what part of the world we live in. For instance, an average citizen in the United Kingdom will have a different attitude toward China from that which is held by an average citizen in this country. Without attempting to pass judgement on China — or, for that matter, the prospective French attitude toward China — I just want to invite your attention to a remarkable book on China, one which is, to my knowledge, a most comprehensive, informative and objective book, which was published a few months ago. It is called The Other Side of the River, by Edgar -Sa&w/ -who-, -- (more ) .11- Note No. 288U 21 January 1964 EffitOEft Sir, as you prepare to leave for Africa, could ve ask you for your reaction, to the event8 now taking place in East Africa, particularly in the context of instant Field Marshals and the consequent question whether decolonization sometimes too rapidly, of non-viable terriirofies may be proceed-ingt The SSCRS'IARY-GEHERAL: Regarding the very recent developments in East-Africa I have no official communications from any source. % knowledge of these developments is confined to newspaper reports, and so I do not think it will be proper on my part to pass judgement on them. But all I want to say at this moment is that the birth of a new nation is like the birth of a child. It has to go through certain processes and certain troubles, like teething troubles, for instance. But I believe very firmly that with the passage of time, there will be stability everywhere» My feeling is that many countries of Africa are now,passing through alphase—a phase similar.to that which was passed through by many European countries in the nineteenth century. Stability is lacking in many regions. It will continue to lack for some time to come, but I am optimistic about the future. QUESTION: President Sukarno recently said that Indonesia would abide by the decision of the United Nations and agree to the formation of Malaysia if the world Organization made a second survey on public opinion in the Borneo territory provided the wishes of the local leaders now in prison would also be heard and they wanted to join the Malaysia Federation. Would you please give us your reaction to this suggestion and also comment on the recent Manila meeting of President Sukarno and President fctecapagal of the Philippines. The SECRETARY-GENERAL; I have been in constant contacts with the Permanent Representative of Indonesia and, for that matter, with the Permanent Representative of Malaysia, and both Governments have been very kind in keeping me posted with developments. My attitude towards this problem is one of caution and I have been exerting my utmost to create conditions congenial for further steps. (more) - 12-15 - Note No. 288^ 21 January 196*4- To give you an instance, only last week, exactly on 15 January, I appealed to both Governments -- of course, on a purely personal basis -- tc exercise the utmost restraint and to maintain calm on the frontiers "between Indonesia and Malaysia during the whole month of Ramadan. As you are no doubt aware, Ramadan is very sacred to all Moslems. It is well known as a period of love, a period of forgive and forget, and a period of tolerance. Since both Indonesia and Malaysia are primarily Moslem countries, I took that opportunity to appeal to both Governments to exercise restraint and to maintain calm in the area, with a view to creating a congenial atmosphere for further useful steps. QUESTION: Mr. Secretary-General, the United States Secretary of State, Dean Rusk, following you to the rostrum of Columbia University, recently argued that rigid application of the veto in the Security Council, on the one hand, and mechanical reliance on votes in the Assembly on the other, would both work against the United Nations future effectiveness. He took a stand against the idea of weighted voting, but he suggested that some solution between these two extremes should be found and that discussions on this problem be held. (more) ^^^ -16 - Note ffo. ,28Bk 21 January My question Is twofold. First, have such discussions or explorations been initiated; to your femowleelge? Second, not in your capacity as Secretary-General, but as a diplomat with an intimate knowledge of the United Nations, could you put forth some suggestions for a solution — provided you agree with Mr. Rusk's analysis? . . . The gECREEARY-GMERAL: I am aware of the current private discussions which are going .on .between certain capitals on the character and functioning-of the future peace-keeping operations of "the United Nations, and also on the procedures to be followed regarding the allocation of financial responsibility snong i&mfcer States towards these peace-keeping operations. Of course, it is too early now to predict or anticipate the outcome of these discussions. However, I am confident .that some kind of suitable and equitable solution will be found before the next session of the General Assembly. As you are no doubt aware, there are two concepts regarding the functL oning of the competent organs of this Organization in respect to the peace-keeping opera- tions, QC well OB the allocation of financial responsibility among Member States. There is one school of thought which maintains that the one who pays the piper must call the tune; in other words, those countries which contribute most towards the peace-keeping operations should have a greater voice in policy. And, of course, there is Another school of thought which is subscribed to by a vast matV>-'ity of Member States and which maintains that ths present system, the trad I!" rial system, of one-country-one-vot§, should be retained. Of licv.u-s-:, I have no means of knowing what the outcome of the present dir2i;.c.-V-TH; will be, but I know that if the major Powers reach an agreement on the:!'/r.'-'::':.•;• i;••....,/ c-f the United Nations organs in respect of the peace-keeping opery;.-4 •;•.:••• '".-- 3^r^ement must G!EO necessarily get the approval of the competent oreat. 01 t-i.^ Lj?:-,\-i:a ITations. (more ) -17-20 - Note No. 288^ 21 January QUESTION: There seems to "be great pressure^cn the Republic of Cyprus for the partitioning of that young State.. Already the United Nations has some "beachhead, however small, in that unhappy development. I should like to ask whether you think that the United Nations can prevent the tragedy of partition, especially the kind that would be imposed on the young State by the pressures of enormous military States. The SEGRETARY-GENTi]RAL; As you know, I have submitted two reports to the Security Council on this subject. Since then, my personal representative, General Gyani, has gone to Cyprus. My Deputy Chef de Cabinet, Mr. Rolz-Bennett,has been in London and in Cyprus, and he is expected to be back in New York this afternoon. Bending his arrival and report to me, I think I had better reserve judgement. I can assure you that I shall do my best to help in restoring calm in Cyprus . If I feel at some stage that the Security Council should be involved, I shall of course get instructions from the Council regarding the future line of operations. It is too early now to anticipate what the future holds in store for Cyprus. (more) - 21 - Note No. £881+ 21 January 196U QUESTION; Last year, on the motion of Ghana, sanctions were imposed on South Africa because of its unspeakable laws although, as all international lawyers know, similar laws are in force in Ghana, which has given the unique example of destroying retroactively all judicial safeguards for the abuse of these laws. But there is a difference. As the Foreign Minister of South Africa had to concede reluctantly in answer to my question in a Press Conference, the South African oppressive laws are employed much more against the white opposition than against the coloured population while the victims of the Ghana laws are almost exclusively coloured. My question is this* is it the policy of the United Nations to be more concerned about the violation of white victims than of coloured victims or is it to be more indulgent toward such violations by coloured than by white Governments? And if neither one, why should not the same sanctions against South Africa also be imposed on the electojral monarchy of Ghana? The SECRECY-GENERAL; I do not think I am competent to pass judgement on the domestic policies or actions of Member States except in the context of the decisions of a principal organ of this Organization. I think your question should be posed to the Security Council or the General Assembly or other organs of the United Nations, not to the Secretary-General. Obviously, of course^ I cannot comment on those developments which are purely the domestic concern of Member States. As I have said before, if I am authorized to take certain actions by a competent organ of this Organization like the General Assembly or Security Council, then I will express my views on these developments in the context of these resolutions. In the absence of such a mandate, I do not think that I am competent to assess the situation in any Member State. QUESTION; You recently referred to the situation in the Middle East as "threatening". Could you explain a little further? (more) - 22-25 - Note No. 2884 21 January 1964 The SECRETAKT-GENERAL; When I spoke at Columbia University, I expressed, by concern about the prospective developments- in the Middle. East. I was concerned at that time regarding the future^developments in Arab-Israel relations and also in Cyprus. Cyprus- is very much. in. the. area, and it was also .... very much, in my mind when I said' that. But after the conclusion of the Arab Summit. Conference in Cairo, from newspaper reports, I am not. so "sure whether my deep • : ..,.-. concern was warranted. Of course, I have not received anything official, but-;••..r ..•'.- I feel that the situation in that area may not be as explosive as I thought it would be when I spoke at .Columbia, University. : . . (more) -26- note No. 2884 21 January The SEGHEPARY-GMERAL; $he matter has been receiving the very close attention of all Member States, ap I thia& it is ecpftion knowledge that many of the big Powers have taken a very. et0Se Interest to 'this. Private and informal consultations have been going on siflfie" th£ conclusion of the last session of the General Assembly, B&yond that I ftave no means of knowing what the outcome will be. QUESTION; A while ago you expressed confidence that before the opening of the next session of- the -General Assembly some solution would be found to the various problems regarding the alloc'stisa of finances to the peace-keoping operations, and so on. Does that confidence include the solution of the so-called Russian contribution — or, rat&gr, non-e<3atrib,utibn — problem? Do you think that a formula migM be found, one way or another,before the opening of the session? As- &f this moment, of course, I have no means of imowing what the attitude of Some Member States towarcts 'Kais problem is or will be, but earlier at this meetitfg I eSpi'Sssed my confidence that some progress will be made as a result of those direct contacts and negotiations going on, and I am hopeful that a solution will be f&uB& Tsfifore the forthceialng Session of the General Assembly. Caalriisatt Khrushchev and President Johnson seemed to have agreed, in an exehasge ef l^ttiers, that force or the tlreet of force should not be used to change frontiers. Do you think this is going io be of any hel^g, and do you believe that this agreement might be tfortt&a&aed in some manner — and, if so, how, where and when? (more ) - 27-30 - 21 January The SECHBTARY-GEHERAIi: You know, as veil as I do, that this" question has been engaging the attention of the "big. Powers for some time, and it. „ has been made known to the general public for the first time in the past few days. The tatter will be taken up at .the Geneva Disarmament Conference, which resumed today, and I hope that there will be some perceptible progress'in the negotiations, particularly in the direction of disarmament, although personally I do not think that further -progress will be made inthe field of a nuclear tes;t ban. In qblier, words, personally, I do not thiak that agreement will be reached at this, session of the Conference regarding the banning of underground tests, but I am^. . ^ hopeful that some positive steps will be taken in the field of general ani. - complete, disarmament. . . QUESTION: You were requested by the Security Council last December ., to form a group of recognized experts tp study the question of apartheid. You ...,, have done so and.we note that you .saw the gjpup yesterday., .and also that you . afterwards saw the Ambassador of South. Africa.. Can .you tell us what line the study of this group will take, and what connexion . your ..talk with, the South ... African Ambassador had with .this,? _ .,, ...... ,v ...... •?.•••.....-•••••'••:. ••.'•.: •••••:'' I---'. :.. -v v.....,; :i • : ;•• . . - .•., . ••,•:; I The SECBETARY"aEHBRAL; In the context of the Security Council resolution I have named four outstanding personalities as members of the Committee of Experts. The fifth member still reuaine to be named. Yesterday I requested, the Government of South Africa, to give all facilities to this Committee of Experts in the context of the Security Council resolution. I am awaiting the reply; perhaps I shall receive it in the course of this week. My further action will depend on the nature of the reply. . (more) . - 31 - U6teT B6. 2884 21 January QUESTION: May I ask first, who is going -with you to Africa, and second, have you made a decision regarding the invitation of the Portuguese Government to visit Angola and Mozambique? TEE SECRBIABY-GBSreBAL; On ray visit to Africa, I shall be .-....._... „ # accompanied by my secretary and personal aide and Press Officer. Regarding the Portuguese Governments invitation to me to visit the Portuguese Territories, I have given very serious thought to it and I want to take this opportunity of expressing my very sincere thanks to the Government of Portugal for having so kindly extended the invitation to me. But as I see the situation, I donlt think much useful purpose will be served by my visit to the Portuguese Territories in Africa and by a few days stay In this or that territory. The crux of the problem, as I see It, is the interpretation of the term "self-determination". Tile General Assembly in its resolution 151^ of the fifteenth session, defined the term "self-determination", a definition which is at variance with the interpretation of the Government - of Portugal. So the basic question is what Portugal means by the term "self- determination" » In the circumstances, I do not feel'that much useful.purpose will be served by my brief visit to the Portuguese Territories, although of course I thank the Government of Portugal for their kindness. QUESTION; If I may be permitted to follow up Mr. MjcVane's question on the Middle East. It developed that at the Summit Conference, of the three points raised which were revealed after the Conference, one was the creation of a Palestine entity among the Arab refugees and all that it implies. I was wondering, !&:„ Secretary-Gea&r&L, ^feather such an independent Palestins entity among refugees would not conflict In some ways with the fine programme of UKRWA among the refugees? TEB SECBSTARY-GEHERAL.: I am sorry, but I am not in possession of the full facts. -Perhaps if I receive official information on this, I may be able to comment on It on another occasion. (more) Lucien Lemieux, Donald Thomas, Ramses Hassif,respectively. - 32-35- - Note Wo. 2884 21 January ..QUESTION; .Me,,. Secretary-General, in view-of-your experience, formerly as a .representative of your .ova, Government..and now .as Secretary-General of this . ;..,. Organization, could ygu .tell me^..first,--wlaat are :the -characteristics or the traits. of an effective -United Nations Ambassador, and secondly, are these traits any different; than-.those of .an. .Ambassador required-in his; country .going to another country? ....„..,, ... , ...... , ...... -..:.-. • iV .- .-,- . .•-.-.-•. • .- , •-. .;•/;. r.- •. .The SBJCBSTARTrGgKiEBAL; .Since I have, never teen an Ambassador, to - - anothej^ country, .1 am sorry that I,.am.not. in a position.to maie, an-y observations;- . on this, ...... •:.,.-: . :.....-> .... .-.-...... ',--, - 36 - Note No. 21 January 196k QUESTION; It was not clear to me, Mr. Secretary-General, in your comments on Secretary Rusk's proposals, whether you share his desire for changes in the present procedures. What are your personal views on this? The SECRETARY-GENERAL; I am sure you will agree with me that, in my position as Secretary-General of this Organization, it would not "be proper for me to identify myself from time to time with the statements and concepts held by one or another leading stateenwtn. Of course, when the occasion warrants, I will make my views known. But, for the moment^ since these views are understandably contentious, I do not waht to consmeat on them further. QUESTION: Can you tell us how1 long you are going to "be gone on your trip and which countries you are g&ing to visit? The SECRETARY-GENERAL; I intend to visit Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Guinea, Ghana, Nigeria and Ethiopia, perhaps with a "brief stop in Senegal. I propose to leave New York next Tuesday — that is, a week from today — and I expect to be back about the 20th of next month. QUESTION; There seems to be a tendency to turn the toughest problems, the insoluble ones, over to you, not only in the Assembly but in the Security Council* This has been a good formula thus far. But do you not see the possibility that, if used ^oo often, it may become a factor for evil, or, rather, nothing good? Is it not possible that both the Assembly and the Security Council might through such a procedure be encouraged to give up too easily? Also, if the formula were misused, might it not constitute only a delaying action? The SECRETARY-GENERAL: Yes, I am conscious of ny own limitations and the limitations of my office — and these views are, of course, generally expressed from time to time by many of my colleagues. But, as far as the discharge of my responsibilities is concerned, I make it a rule, first of all, (more) - 37-^0 - Note Ho. 2884 21 January 196U f to consider whether it is within my competence to discharge the tasks expected of me. If I feel that it is not within my competence, I invariably refer the matter to the competent organ of the United Nations. QUESTION; If I remember correctly, you mentioned earlier that you had no official word on the events in East Africa, Have you taken any steps to obtain the information from your representative in that part of the world or through any other channels, or do you have any other plans for watching that situation? The SECRETARY-GEHERAL: Hie United Nations has representatives in Tanganyika — and, of course, my personal representative, Mr. George Ivan Smith, is also expected to cover the region. So faij I have not received any report of substance from our representatives in the area. QUESTION: Would you care to comment on the activity taking place here in connexion with the United Nations Trade Conference, and particularly *. . ' the last meeting of the Preparatory Committee? The SECRETARY-GENERAL; The United Nations Trade Conference will open, of course, as scheduled, on 2J March. It has aroused a very great deal of attention all over the world, and perhaps it will be of interest to you if I give you some of my thinking on the projected Trade Conference. I believe that I$6k will be a year of unprecedented activity in the field of world trade policy. An effort is to be made in the ^Kennedy round"of trade negotiations, as you know, to achieve a ne.w momentum in the reduction of tariff and other obstacles to trade. Even before the'Kennedy round"begins, however, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development will be convened in Geneva on 25 March, as I have stated, for a period of twelve weeks. (more) :..-•. - ^a.-..., Note Wo. 288U ' . 21 January There is no doubt of the need for a further, effort to reduce restrictions on world trade. I am absolutely convinced of it. .Equally necessary, however,.are active and positive measures to encourage the export trade of developing countries, both in primary products and in manufactures, and to deal with any movement of the terms of trade against them. The developing countries have "been losing ground .steadily in world trade for the past 10 years or so. . The United Rations .cannot remain content with a situation in which the. growth of developing countries continues to he inhibited by any difficulties they face in export markets, That is why governments all over the world are taking .the United Nations Conference very seriously* We must re-examine the assumptions of the past .and evolve new international trad,e policies consistent with the goals of the United Nations development. Decade. The recent easing of international tension may also facilitate new and more promising departures in East-West tre4e relations. If this occurs, the coming year will, I hope, see progress in all the main channels of world trade. . .•'..• . ' • ' •'••:•. ..-...:'• .'-. ; :•••:.•!.•-•'•-.. ^ r": '" :."-V. '. -.,«-' ', ' ' ' ' Q.UESTIQN; Mr. Secretary-General, is it true that fighting in Yemen has virtually stopped, and are there any political negotiations going on now to reach a settlement to.the problem th^re? ...... :,,.... . The SECRSgARY-OatffifiALt. To my knowledge the fighting in Yemen has almost virtually stopped and the portents for the future are brighter than a few weeks ago. For .the moment that is all I have to say. QUESTION; Mr. Secretary-General, you expressed your doubts about the possibility of a test ban on underground tests, "Which one of the following, ar any other topics, do you Ijhink may lead to agreement at the Disarmament Conference which resumes Its work today: non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, measures against surprise attack, or a general agreement along the exchange between Chairman Khrushchev and President Johnson? Which of these topics do you think may lead to an agreement in Geneva? (more) - 1*2 - Note No. 2881* 21 January 1964 The SECBETABY-GENEBAL; Prophecies are sometimes very dangerous, so I do not want to take the risk of prophesying or anticipating in -which particular t •/ , . ' •'. / * field the progress can be expected, I think it is difficult to predict with any degree of accuracy in which particular field progress will he made. It depend^ on the attitude primarily of the big Powers. All I said earlier was that I • v anticipate some progress in the field of general and complete disarmament, in the fields I outlined in my brief intervention in Moscow on 5 August of last year, and some of which I repeated in my speech at Columbia University earlier this month. But I do. not think I should try to predict in which particular field progress is possible. The Press Conference rose at 11,^5 a.m. ™AL UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, ELY. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA -- NOT AH OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Re3.ease SG/A/4 16 January 1964 TEXT OF EEPLY FROM AMBASSADOR. ROSSIDES TO LETTER OF SECRETARY-GENERAL Following is the text of a letter, dated 16 January, sent ty Zenon Ressides, Permanent Representative of Cyprus to the United Nations, in reply to a letter*from the Secretary-General, U Thant: "I have the honour to acknowledge receipt of Your Excellency's letter of today, and to say in reply that my Government is in agreement with the terms contained therein. "Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration." * ### * * See Press Release SG/A/3 UNITED I A T I 0 N S Press Services Office ef Public Information United Nations, II.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MSDIA — WOT AW OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/A/3 16 January LETTER FROM SECRETARY-GENERAL TO AMBASSADOR ROSSIDES 0? CYPRUS Following is the text of a letter dated l6 January 196U from the Secretary-General, U Thant, to Ambassador Zencn Rossides of Cyprus: UI have the honour to acknowledge receipt of your letters of 9 January, 13 January and 15 January 19^.» concerning the requests of Your Excellency' s Government for the sending of a Personal Representative to Cyprus. "in considering your renewed and insistent requests for the earliest dispatch of a Personal Representative for Cyprus, I have taken into account the information that you have given me regarding the increasing seriousness of the situation in the country. I have had in mind also the fact that the Governments of Greece,, Turkey and the United Kingdom share in this concern and that they have expressed the same conviction as you have expressed, that the early dispatch of my Personal Representative as an Observer could contribute to the lessening s:f tension in the country. "in this connexion I have further noted the clarification contained in your communication of 15 January 196^, namely that 'all the costs involved in connexion with the request made by my Government for the sending of Your Excellency's Personal Representative to Cyprus as a United Nations observer for the period of three months, and under the terms of reference given in my letter of 9 January, will be borne by my Government' and that 'my Government's responsibility will cover the estimated level of costs that will be provided to Your Excellency by the aforesaid United Nations observer'. (more) . Press Release SG/A/3 .. •. ..,-. .... • 16 January 196^ "I have'therefore decided to designate Lieutenant-General P.S, Gyani as my Personal Representative and to send him to Cyprus to observe the progress of the peac'e-making operation for an initial period extending to the end of February 1964. Within this period, Lieutenant-General Gyani •will report to me on how the United nations Observer could function and be most effective in fulfilling the task as.outlined in the request made by the Government of Cyprus -and agreed to by the Governments of Greece, Turkey and the United Kingdom. It is my intention to request Lieutenant-General Gyani to proceed to Cyprus as soon as I have Your Excellency's confirmation that .the..above arrangements are accepted by your Government. . "I.should be grateful-if you would convey the text of this letter to His Beatitude Mgr. Makarios, President of Cyprus, at your earliest convenience. Upon the receipt of your Government's reply, it is my intention to submit a further report to the Security. Council.1' . UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA -- NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/A/2 16 January 196U SECRETARY-GENERALS REPRESENTATIVE TO ATTEND LONDON CONFERENCE ON CYPRUS In response to an invitation from all the Governments participating in the Conference on Cyprus, meeting presently in London., which has "been transmitted to the Secretary-General "by the Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom to the United Nations, the Secretary-General has asked Jose Rolz-Bennett, Deputy Chef de Cabinet, to go to London. The purpose of this trip is to consult with the Foreign Ministers of Cyprus, Greece, Turkey and the United Kingdom on the request made by the Government of Cyprus, in conjunction with the Governments of Greece, Turkey and the United Kingdom, for a Personal Representative of the Secretary-General to be sent to Cyprus to observe the progress of the peace-making operation in that country. Mr. Rolz-Bennett will leave tonight for London and is expected to return to New York on Saturday^ 18 January, * #-»-# * UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, 3S.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) Press Release SG/SM/2 1J January 1964 LETTER FROM SECRETARY -GENERAL TO GEN. P.S. GYANI The following is the text of the letter addressed by the Secretary- General, U Thant, to General P.S. Gyani, on 9 January 1964: "Dear General Gyani, "Now that you are leaving ths United Nations after four years as Commander of UNEF, I should like to express to you once more and in this way my very great appreciation of the splendid service you have rendered to the United Nations in that capacity. In the exercise of your command in UI1EF you have exhibited outstanding qualities both of leadership and of diplomacy, and I much regret, although I well understand, your wish to be relieved of your command after your long tour of duty in Gaza. "Under your command the Force has been a coherent and highly effective formation and has carried out its vital and delicate tasks in an exemplary manner. UNEF continues to serve as a model for other international forces and to provide most useful assistance to other United Nations operations in the Middle East and as far afield as the Congo. This thoroughly satisfactory and distinguished performance is in large measure due to the brilliant quality of your leadership and organizational ability. "Not long ago I had occasion to extend to you rsy gratitude for your helpful services in Yemen. I now once again extend to you my, thanks for all you have done and my best wishes to you and your family for the future. "Yours sincerely, U Thant1' UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL EECORD) Press Release SG/A/1 15 January SECRETARY-GENERA.L APPOINTS GROUP OF EXPERTS TO EXAMINE APARTHEID IN SOUTH AFRICA la accordance with Security Council resolution S/5^71 of ^ December 1963, the Secretary-General, U Thant, has named a group of experts to examine the problem of apartheid in South Africa. The experts* appointed as of now are: Sir Edward Asafu-Adjaye (Ghana) Josip Djerdja (Yugoslavia) Sir Hugh Foot (United Kingdom) Mrs. Alva Myrdal (Sweden) Operative paragraph 6 of the above-mentioned resolution reads as follows: "Requests the Secretary-General to establish under his direction and reporting to him a small group of recognized experts to examine methods of resolving the present situation in South Africa through full, peaceful and orderly application of human rights and fundamental freedoms to all•inhabitants of the territory as a whole, regardless of race, colour or creed, and to consider what part the United Nations might play in the achievement of ths.t. end..." •* *** * * Biographical notes on the experts, issued separately, are available. UNITED NATIONS ' Press Services v Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AM OFFICIAL mwoi Press Release SG/SM/1 7 January COMMUNICATIONS BETWEEN SECKETARl-GENEFvAL AND POPE PAUL VI Following are the texts of messages exchanged between Pope Paul VI and the Secretary-General, U Thant: Cable dated 6 January from Pope Paul in Jerusalem; "From this Holy City of Jerusalem, we invite all men of goodwill to open wide their hearts to the message of justice and charity which Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, brought to the world in these very places. "To all the authorities who have the responsibility of the world's peoples, we renew the pressing appeal to do everything possible to obtain peace for men — peace in truth, in justice, in freedou and in brotherly love. "We cordially bless such efforts, and during our touching visit to the Blessed Land of Palestine, our fervent prayer rises towards the Almighty in order that a great light may illumine men's spirits, and new generosity fill their hearts as they share in- the quest for world peace." Cable dabed 7 January from the Secretary-General to His Eminence Amleto Giovanni Cardinal Cicognani, Secretary of Sta-ce of the Vatican City: "I should be grateful if Your Eminence would kindly convey the following message to His Holiness Pope Paul VI: "•* l!ll warmly welcome the new pressing appeal for peace you have addressed from Jerusalem. As the maintenance of peace is the foremost objective of the United Nations, I wish to assure you that we share in the call of Your Holiness and express the fervent hope that all men join their endeavours to eliminate all possible misunderstandings in a ceaseless quest for world peace.'" y o ,V TJ » TlnWff 7T ,500 UNITED NATIONS Pi-ess Services Office of Public Information United Nations,, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA -- NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD) CAUTION; ADVANCE TEXT Press Release SC-/l6!l-2/Corr.l wov t'4 .fo -rP releas~ i e 'befor -v" *e' 7 January 196* I- 8_;3Q p..m. (EST) 7 Jaruary 196k 'LOOKING AHEADr Address by Secretary-General TJ Thant CORRECTION In press release SG/1642 of 7 January 19&±, the last sentence of the second paragraph on page 6 should read as follows (underlining indicates words altered): "I hope that the day is not far off when the impact of public opinion in the rest of the world begins to be felt in that country so that there, too, there may be an awakening of conscience and a change of direction." UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y, (FOR TBE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — HOT AH OFFICIAL RECORD) iliir^.^ JflggATJCE JF3XT Press Release Hot foTrele&ei before T 8:30 p.m, (ESJ> 7 January 196^ *LOOKtKS AHEAP* Address by Secretary-General U Thant* President Kirk, Dean Cordier, Your Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen: I deem it c, privilege to be able to address you tonight in the Dag 'Hammarskjold Mqaaorial Lecture series* When my distinguished predecessor •Has Jsilled. on 17 September 1961, there was a genuine feeling of sadness and a keen s^nse of tragedy, which we experienced again a few weeks ago when President Kennedy was snatched away from our midst, The contribution that Dag HaTmogarsk^old made to the development of the United Nations and to the whole concept of interp^ional co*qge$&ti«8 action to solve major problems will surely go down in history as something unique, since it came at a time when the Organisation itself vas in its formative stage,, I remember participating in the 1,010th plenary meeting of the General Assembly on the afternoon of Wednesday, 20 September 1961, along with so many of my distinguished colleagues* Tributes were then paid to the great personal qualities of the man, his wide culture, his penetrating intelligence, his amazing grasp of the most complicated international issues, his intellectual integrity, his courage of conviction, his tenacity of purpose, his indefatigable industry and his tireless stamina* Surely, this was a unique combination of qualities in one huuvaa being, who dedicated the best years of his life to the cause of the United Nations and the pursuit of peace. (more) * This speech is part of aseries of Dag Hammarskjold Memorial Lectures. It will be giv United Nations was not .merely a for;um fgr .debjate^. although he realized that this, was a very important function, , of the ^United. Nations, It /was more impoirfcant, in his view, that the Organization .should be a .eejrtee. of harmonizing the actions, of nations in the, -attainment of. .Qommon .ends,, .While realizing that- . many important decisions, whether,, they.. related -to ..the. .halting of the nuclear arms race or the implementation,: of -•gener.al,. and.repmpletei disarmament,, could be settled only by agree^gat ampng 1jhe,.majp.r Powers., he.. .emphasized, at the same. time, the stake of tfca,r |^-military JRpw,e,rs, in ,,£a.at of .all. mankind, in the . survival of the human race,.. He,. viewed, -the .United Nations, therefore,, as pro?- uiding the. occasion and the opportunity, for, the npn-imajQr Powers, to affirm their interest in peace and survival. He also regar.ded .the Organization, not as a substitute jfor normal diplomacy,, but rather as an .additional and perhaps novel instrument which was aTcaliable to. :Member Governments and which could be used by them in situations where conventional methods of diplomacy .might . be precluded f or . a varie-ty of reasons. . ... • ... ,1 believe that I was the first .on the occasion, of that l,.010th meeting of the General Assembly to give expression to a .thought which, no doubt, had crossed. the minds of .many of .my friends. I said: "Who could be more deserving of a Nobel Peace Prize than Mr, Dag Hammarskjold, who fell in the unrelenting fight for peace, even though the award would be posthumous?" Not long afterward, we all had the satisfaction of learning that the Kobel Priae Committee had in fact decided to award the Peace Prize for 1961 to the late Secretary-General, ...... — (more) - 3 - Press Release SG/1642 7 January 1$S4 I shall now turn to the theme I have chosen for tonight. I should perhaps begin by explaining the title of my address. I would like to take advantage of this occasion, which comes at the beginning of a new year, to look ahead in the light of the past and to see what are the major problems which we face and what ars the prospects for solving them. I would thus hope to have an opportunity to give a conspectus of the situation facing the world organization in the nineteenth year of its existence. Twenty-five years ago, when the League of Nations was also 19 years old, it was already tottering and on its last legs. On the other hand, I believe I will not be accused of partiality if I say that, despite its shortcomings, the United Nations has a substantial record of solid achievement during its 19 years of existence, and I hope I will not be charged with over-optimism if I predict that its most fruitful years are still ahead of it. The great advantages that the United Nations has over the League are its greater universality of membership, and the fact that it gives as much importance to economic and social development, the protection and promotion of human rights and the equal rights of nations, large and small, as to its over-all objective of saving succeeding generations from war. If we are to justify the faith of humanity in our international organization and to live up to the promises of the Charter, we can do so only by living up to its principles. I "believe, therefore, that 1964 is a crucial year in the history of the United Nations. This is the time when the Organization has to face up to its responsibilities, and solve the problems which hinder its effectiveness. Amongst the most important of these is the financial problem. The Organization is in debt to the tune of some $134 million. True, its creditors are for the most part Member Governments, but I believe it is imperative for the Organization to be financially solvent. I also believe that a bankrupt organization is bound to be an ineffective one. I am advised that the outlook for 1964 is discouraging, not only because of the serious financial position, but also because of the implications of Article 19 of the Charter. On the other side of the ledger, it is noteworthy that a terminal date has been set by the General Assembly for the military operations in the Congo, which are due to be wound up by the middle of the year. In regard to the United Nations Emergency Force in the Middle East we have undertaken a recent review as a result of which we have been able to .reduce the expenditure a little. Most of the other peace-keeping operations we have undertaken are on the basis that (more) - 4 - Press Release SG/1642 7 January 1964 the Member Governments mainly concerned reimburse the Organization for the expenses involved. But the basic problem remains, and that is the question of solvency of the Organization. I believe that it is time for all countries, whatever their stand on the merits of particular peace-keeping operations may have been in the past, to make a special effort in 1964 to put the Organization back on its financial feet. If this could be done, perhaps we may be able to ensure, in respect of future peace-keeping operations — large or small -- that the'Organization might be called upon to undertake, that a situation does not arise in which, in the pursuit of peace, the Organization bankrupts itself. I realize that the difference of views amongst Member Governments stems not only from their varying evaluation of specific peace-keeping operations, but also from their interpretation of the provisions of the Charter. Even so, I believe that if there is a will to solve this problem a way out may be found without prejudice to the questions of principle involved. Unless the financial picture improves, I am afraid that the effectiveness of the Organization in its various fields of activity, whether they be political or economic, social or humanitarian, or whether they relate to development or decolonization, to disarmament or detente, would be impaired. The present world outlook is, I believe, propitious for settling some of the problems which have plagued international relations in the years following World War II'. I cannot help thinking that this congenial atmosphere is also favourable for settling this basic issue of the solvency of the Organization* I propose to refer later, and in somewhat greater detail, to the efforts being made by the major Powers to reduce defence expenditures. At this point, I would simply like to mention that, including the regular budget of the United Nations, the peace-keeping operations and the contributions to all the voluntary programmes, the total cost of the United Nations to the inter- national community in 1964 is around $330 million. With these funds the United Nations undertakes a variety of tasks in the field of diplomacy, in the peaceful settlement of controversial and potentially dangerous issues, in furthering the progress of dependent territories to political independence and sovereignty, in promoting economic and social development of the developing countries, in advancing international trade, and in safeguarding human rights. If we think in terms of the defence expenditures of the major:military Powers (more ) Press Release SG/1642 7 January alone, all the costs involved in discharging these manifold responsibilities of the United Nations, including its voluntary programmes and peace-keeping operations, are approximately one quarter of one per cent. If Member Governments could be persuaded to see the problem in this perspective and with this sense of proportion, I am sure that they will not feel it a strain to make a special effort to solve the problem of the financial solvency of the Organization* I would now like to undertake a conspectus of the work of the Organiza- tion, as I promised earlier. In its political work, the United Nations deals with certain global problems, such as nuclear and conventional disarmament, as well as certain regional and local problems. I may perhaps begin by dealing with some of the regional and local problems with which the United Nations is directly concerned at the present time. I mentioned earlier that the military phase of the Congo will come to an end in the middle of 196*4-, but that the United Nations Emergency Force will continue with a little reduction in expenditure. Through the good offices of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization we were recently able to arrange for the exchange of some prisoners between Syria and Israel. But the over-all outlook in the Middle Bast toda/ is threatening, and I am very much afraid that there will be more than one occasion in 196^ when Middle Eastern problems will engage the attention of the United Nations. In Yemen, we have reduced the military contingent to a handful of observers assisted by a small air arm. The character of the United Nations representation in Yemen has also changed, with the emphasis on the political rather than the military aspects. I hope that by the time the extended term of the United Nations Mission in Yemen is due to come to an end, the situation would have stabilized sufficiently for us to be able to leave with the assurance that stability may continue. Another important part of the political work of the United Nations is in the field of decolonization. Both the General Assembly and the Security Council have recently adopted resolutions on the subject of territories under Portuguese administration. I sincerely hope that a just and lasting solution may be found for this problem in 1964. Elsewhere in Africa, especially in Central Africa, it appears that the process of decolonization will continue to make progress and that we may have the opportunity to welcome at least two more countries from this part of Africa in the United Nations at the nineteenth session of the General Assembly. (more) - 6 - Press Release SG/lft-2 .7 January On 10 December 1963> we cele Boated "the fifteenth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. One of 'the achievements of the eighteenth session of the General Assembly was the 'adoption of the Declaration on the El-'ir/'j.r.tion of 'All Forms of Racial' Discrimination;' I am encouraged to find that "oLere is e/erywhere increasing preoccupation vith the abolition of dis- crimination, so that one of the main purposes- of the Charter, namely, to promote and encourage respect for human rights and for fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, language or religion, may become a reality. • History has recorded many example's at different times of man's inhumanity to man, but today we see an awakening of the human conscience to the evils of discrimination. I realise that -even so traditions di6 hard, and that the process of elimination of discrimination may take "time. There is, however, one country where discrimination is one of the principles of State policy. This policy has been unequivocally condemned by both the General Assembly and the Security Council. I 'hope that the day Is not far:bff when the impact of public opinion in the rest of the world begins to be 'felt in "this country so that here.> too, there may be an awakening of conscience 'and a change of 'direction. The Charter also &%vfcas:Lzes the Importance of "employing international $. . • • .' . •;'•,• ' ' ' ' machinery for the promotion of economic and social advancement. In recognition of this responsibility of the world community, the sixteenth session of the General Assembly decided to designate the current decade as the United Nations Development Decade. Unfortunately, the resources available to the United Nations have never been wholly adequate to discharge its responsibilities in this field, and as a result it has concentrated on pre -investment and technical assistance. While the World Bank and its" affiliates have been able to 'give some capital assistance for economic development, the bulk of such assistance has been on a bilateral basis between the donor and the recipient countries. Recently, there has been a growing recognition of the many advantages of multilateral assistance for promoting economic development.' I believe "that this is a welcome trend and I hope that this will have the effect of augmenting and raising to more adequate levels the resources available to the United Nations. At the same time, I feel that even if the United Nations is not able, in the immediate future, to offer capital aid to the developing countries , it can, and 'should, make its assistance in the pre -investment field more effective. During (more ) - 7 - Press Release 7 January the last two years and more, I have had the opportunity of observing at first hand the multiplicity of sources from which technical assistance is provided. To some extent I realize that this proliferation is inevitable; however, I believe that the time has come when we should streamline our own Organization and make it easier for the developing countries to receive aid from us, I also believe that this streamlining could be coupled with better co-ordination, not only at United Nations Headquarters, but also in relation to the specialized agencies, which have such a distinguished record of achievement in this field, I consider that this need not affect present inter-agency relationships and that we should be able to preserve the best elements of existing programmes in a new set-up. Most important of all, I believe that it would enable us to be better prepared for the day when, whether as a result of progress towards dis- armament or otherwise, really substantial resources become available to the United Nations, enabling it to offer capital aid to the developing countries. Before leaving the field of economic development I would like to make one more observation. In the first half of this year the United Nations will be convening a major conference in the economic field, namely the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development. While it is true that aid is an important element in promoting the economic development of the developing countries, I am sure you will all agree that trade is an even more important factor. The problems of the developing countries, in regard to their terms of trade, are well-known and I do not wish to expatiate on these problems on this occasion. I hope that following the Trade Conference we will be able to set up some machinery which might be able, effectively, to harmonize the interests of the advanced and developing countries in regard to international trade. Here is a field where generosity^ imagination and mutual understanding will surely lead to increased prosperity for all. I said at the beginning that the times are propitious for a settlement of some of the major issues which the world has been facing from the very end of World War II, Surveying the international scene a couple of years after the end of the war, a wit observed that psace had broken out everywhere. The out- look is even more spotty today. On the one hand, there is an atmosphere of detente following the conclusion of the test ban treaty in Moscow in August last, an occasion in which I was privileged to participate. I then made a statement in vfeich I detailed some of the measures which had been recommended by the United (more ) - 8 - Press Release SG/16U2 7 January 196U i Nations and which had''as their object tfcerrelaxatton of .tensions. In some ; quarters, this statement was misinterpreted as being partial to one.or another point of view. This,"of course, was not and could :not have been my intention and I was "only going by the fact .that'the Assembly had.recommended certain measures. I referred then to the question of wider dissemination of nuclear weapons and the dangers of proliferation. I pointed out that the Assembly had called upon all Governments to make every .effort to achieve a permanent inter- national agreement, subject to inspection and control, on the prevention of the wider dissemination of these weapons of mass .destruction. I referred to the problem of the means of delivering nuclear weapons and the proposals for limiting the production of delivery systems and fpr the de'struction of all but an agreed limited number in thenearly stage of an agreed programme of general disarmament. I also mentioned the problem of surprise attack, the proposals for convening a general conference for signing a convention on the prohibition of the use of nuclear and thermo-nuclear weapons for military purposes,' and finally, a. proposal to establish denuclearized zones in different geographical areas of the world. I believe that all these proposals deserve serious consideration and that any progress made in reaching general agreement in regard: to any of these proposals will lead to an improvement of the international climate.. . The eighteenth session of the Geneasal Assembly met in a mood of hope, and the conciliatory statements made by President Kennedy- and Foreign Minister Gromyko in the very early stages of the session raised our hopes. In actual fact, however, the only concrete accomplishment of'the eighteenth session in the field of disarmament was the agreement of the major nuclear Powers, as embodied in a resolution of the General Assembly, not to use space vehicles for purposes of nuclear warfare. Thus, there is no sign that a golden age of better understanding has dawned. • . However, there are some silver linings among the clouds. Before the close of 1963 two very significant and encouraging developments took place without much fanfare and, therefore, without generating strong public comments. President Johnson announced, within three weeks of his-assumption of office, that military operations at 3-3 military bases -- 26 of them.in the United States — would be halted or curtailed and that more cuts were coming* In a speech oa 13 Screnber. '1965; Defense Secretary McNamara made the important 1 announcement that he 1 • i (more} - 9 - Press Release SG/1&2 7 Janus ry believed that the Soviet Union had cut its armed forces "by 2,250,000 men between 1955 and 1962, thus indicating Washington's desire to reduce arms expenditure. President Johnson *s dramatic decision vas made about the same time as Chairman Khrushchev announced his Government *s decision to cut Soviet military spending by $600 million in 196^. More recently, a reduction of $1 billion in the over- all defence expenditure of the United States for 196U has been announced. These decisions were not the result of negotiations at the conference table, but unilateral decisions. They were obviously reached by tha two super-Powers with the realization that their previous assumptions regarding the other's military might and. intentions were not based on full information, I have no doubt that their actions ware also motivated by a sincere response to humanityT s yearning for peace and greater understanding. Although the United States and the Soviet Union have not subscribed to the policy of unilateralism, they seem to have come to the conclusion that no progress towards ending the arms race will be made unless and until they slow down themselves „ I want to take this opportunity of congratulating the two Governments for their courage and vision in arriving at these decisions which augur so well for the New Year,, It is worth recalling the basic fact that an over -assessment of the other *s military pow^r is as dangerous as an under -estimate. The former risks economic ruin and. generates an atmosphere of fear and even panic. The latter invites military adventurisau The present year starts with the suspicious prospects of gtfvjg reduction and cut-back of armed forces. She real challenge faced by the developed countries is how to promote economic growth and public welfare without the stimulus of arms production, and then to ensure the proper use of that growth and expansion to ease the contrast between their abundance and the poverty of the rast of mankind. It it the experience of history that if we do uct prets forward when there is a favourable atmosphere, there is a relapse and we are apt to drift helplessly from crisis to crisis, unt33. eventually wa find tfc.at we are pretty close to open x war. This is certainly true of the First and Second World Wars. In this context, m-ay I recall the words of the late President Kennedy. I quote from an address that he delivered at the University of Maine on 19 October 1963. He said, and I quote: "Historians report that in 191^ with most of the world already plunged in war, Prince Eulow, the former German Chancellor, said to the then Chancellor Bsthmann-Hollveg: 'How did it all happen?1 and Bethmann-Hollweg replied:t Ah, if only one knew.r (more) - 10 - Press Release SG/1642 . . • , ,, . ,. ,-. -7 January 196^ "If this planet is ever ravaged by nuclear war --if 300 million Americans, Russians and Europeans are wiped, out by a 60-minute nuclear exchange --if the survivors of that devastation can then endure the fire, poison, chaos and catastrophe — I do not want one of those survivors to ask another 'How did it all happen?' and to receive the incredible reply: 'Ah, if only one knew.r" (end of quotation) If today we are not able to make more rapid progress towards lasting peace it is not for lack of diagnosis of the causes of war. The greatest danger facing the world today is the nuclear arms race. This race lias to be halted, and reversed, if humanity is to survive. Two world wors were fought to make the world safe for democracy. Today we have to wage a third war on all fronts. This war has to be vaged in peace tims, but it has to be waged as energetically and with as much concentration of total national effort as in timer? of war. The war we have to wage today has only one goal, and that is to make the world safe for diversity. The concept of peaceful co-existence has been criticized by many who do not see the need to make the world safe for diversity. I wonder if they have ever paused to ask themselves the question: What is the alternative to co-existence? The world is inhabited by over three billion human beings, and yet the finger-print experts tell us that no two human beings have identical finger-prints. Human beings come in all sizes and shapes and in a variety of colours. This rich diversity is matched by an equal diversity in regard to religious beliefs and political ideologies. We are thrown together on this planet and we have to live together. That is why the Charter imposes the imperative on all human beings to practise tolerance and live together in peace with one another as good neighbours. To niy mind this is the simplest definition of peaceful co-existence. Looking ahead,! hope that in 1964 and in subscqusnt years we may all be imbued with this spirit of tolerance. If all human beings, and nations large and small, were to be moved by this spirit we can indeed make the world safe for diversity, and for posterity. ##* *