A/31/PV.64 General Assembly

A draft resolution on this' question has been submitted. It is document A/31/L.!7, and I eaU on the representative of Guyana, who wishes to intro- duce it.

Two years have elapsed since this Assembly provided a valid framework for an equitable settlement of the problem which arose in Cyprus after the landing of Turkish troops on the island; for it was two years ago that this Assembly adopted unanimously resolution 3212 (XXIX), which prescribed the essential elements for a peaceful settlement of the crisis in Cyprus. Yet today that resolution and resolution 3395 (XXX), adopted last year, remain essentiaUy unimplemented. Foreign troops-the troops of Turkey-are still present in the Republic of Cyprus; the negotiations between representatives of the two communities, the Greek Cypriots and the Turkish Cypriots, have not produced the anticipated results; and many Cypriots remain refugees in their own land. 3. During those two years, while an uneasy peace has hovered over Cyprus, various unilateral actions have been taken which render more difficult the search for a lasting solution of the Cyprus problem. In this regard, my delegation is profoundly disturbed by the consistent and Widespread reports of systematic colonization of the northern part of Cyprus. We are deeply disturbed as well by reports of other actions in the northern part of Cyprus which have as their effect the consolidation of a de facto partitioning of the island along ethnic lines. Other reports indicate that the authorities in the north are hampering the activities of the peace-keeping forces which are stationed in Cyprus. 4. This Assembly, and indeed the entire international community, had hoped that the talks between the two communities under the auspices of the Secretary-General would by now have produced meaningful results. That those results have not been achieved is a source of great disappointment to my delegation. We wish to encourage the resumption of those negotiations, but we should be less Friday, 12 November 1976, -at 11.10 a.m. ... NEW YORK than candid if we did not express deep misgivings about the prospects for such negotiations in a situation in which there is a manifest lack of will to bring about their successful outcome. Meaningful negotiations on Cyprus cannot be, held when one party is forced to negotiate under duress. This Assembly should call upon all concerned to desist from taking any unilateral action which would further complicate the process of negotiation and to work posi- tively for the creation of conditions that would give the negotiations a better chance of success.My delegation urges both parties to adhere to the agreements reached at previous rounds of talks and to demonstrate immediately a will to proceed with the talks in good faith. My delegation would also urge Turkey, upon which a special responsibility devolves, to take the necessary steps required of it, as provided for in the relevant resolutions, so as to facilitate an early solution of the problem of Cyprus. 5. Let me take this opportunity to commend the Secre- tary-General, Mr. Waldheim, for his patient and untiring efforts to encourage the parties concerned to utilize the negotiating process for finding a lasting settlement. 6. In Colombo, the Heads of State or Government of Non-Aligned Countries gave consideration to this question and, in response to the spirit of those discussions, the contact group of five, which had been appointed in 1974, has held during the past days intensive consultations with the interested parties with a view to arrivingat a text which this Assembly might adopt in the present circumstances. 7. The members of that group of five-Algeria, India, Mali, Yugoslavia and my own country, Guyana-have now submitted draft resolution A/31/L.l7. On behalf of the group of five, I have the honour and the privilege to introduce that draft resolution and to commend it for the unanimous support of the Assembly. 8. In its operative paragraphs, the draft resolution re- affirms previous resolutions 3212 (XXIX) and 3395 (XXX), demands the urgent implementation of those resolutions and calls upon all parties concerned to co-operate fully with the Secretary-General in this regard. Further, operative paragraph 4 requests the Secretary-General to continue to provide his good offices for the negotiations between the representatives of the two communities, and operative paragraph 5 expresses the hope that the Security Council will consider appropriate steps for the implementation of its resolution 365 (1974) of 13 December 1974.

My delegation has listened with great attention to the debate on Cyprus. My country is deeply concerned by the division and strife which continue to hang over Cyprus. There is no reason, in our estimation, 10. Several representatives have given an analysis of the situation in Cyprus, and we have listened with particular attention to the observations of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus {57th meeting} and the statement of the Permanent Representative of Turkey to the United Nations {61st meeting}. The statements have encouraged us to conclude that the situation mCyprus is -by no means beyond solution, The United Nations and the Governments of Turkey and Greece have allrecognized that the .sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and non-alignment of the Republic of Cyprus cannot be questioned. The General Assembly, in its resolution 3212 (XXIX) of 1 November 1974, rightly affirmed that the way to solve the Cyprus problem is for the represen- tatives of the two communities to reach an understanding on the basis of negotiations, which shouldtake place on an equal footing. We feel, therefore, that while the General Assembly has heard the representative of the Greek Cypriots we have been unable to hear the representative of the Turkish Cypriots and have thus been denied the opportunity of hearing the Turkish Cypriot point of view in this Assembly. 11. The Foreign Minister of Cyprus has spoken in the debate with a certain ~agree of emotion. He has described the Cyprus problem as one of aggression by Turkeyagainst Cyprus; he has also tried to equate Turkey with South Africa. We are indeed surprised that the Foreign Minister of Cyprus shouldhave used such expressions, for it is this kind of lack of self-restraint which complicates the issue and makes its solution more difficult. 12. It would be pertinent here to recall some essential facts regarding Cyprus. In 1960, when Cyprus became'an independent State, Turkey was assigned a definite role under the Treaty concerning the Establishment of the Republic of Cyprus.! Under that Treaty, the United Kingdom, Greece and Turkey recognized the Republic of Cyprus and undertook to consult and co-operate in the common defence of the island. Turkey's intervention in Cyprus was, therefore, not an act of aggression but a step it took as on.e of the guarantor Powers to maintain the sovereignty and separate identity of Cyprus. Ambassador Tiirkmen hasstated categorically: "There is no sinister design to colonize the island, for the simple reason that the Turkish Government does not entertain even the remotest notion of annexation or partition. The largest number of people who have come to Cyprus since August 1974 is made up of Turkish Cypriots who had emigrated to Turkey, the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries over the past years under political, Administrative, soci&1 and economic pressures from the Greek Cypriot administra- tion and are now being given the opportunity to return to their homeland and lead a normal life, in conditions of security, in accordance with the constitution and the relevant citizenship laws of the Republic of Cyprus." '{61st meeting, para. 107./ 2 See Officlol Record' of the Security Council, Thirty-first Year, Supplement for AprD, M:JY and June 1976, document S/12093, para. 53. 1 Signed at Nicosia on 16 August 1960. See United Nations, Treaty Series, vol. 382 (No.5476), p. 8. "Both sides, while expressing certain reservations, have indicated publicly that the intercommunal talksunder my auspices continue to provide the best method of making progress towards an agreed settlement of the Cyprus problem,"! 14. Those are hopeful developments and open the way to ajust andlasting peace. It is the view of my delegation that, if the TurkishCypriots are wary of promises, it is owing to their past experience when promises made to them were violated. In any case, the differences between the two partiesare not irreconcilable. What is needed is a meeting of open minds, and our delegation hopes that that will take place sooner than many representatives anticipate. In the unity of die Greek Cypriots and the Turkish Cypriots lies the strength of the Republic of Cyprus, the future of the amity of Greece and Turkey, and the peace of the region.

In his address to the General Assembly this year, the Foreign Minister of Democratic Yemen {17th meeting} called for the with- drawal of all foreign troops and bases from Cyprus and for full respect for the island's sovereignty, territorialintegrity and independence. We are gratified today that all the parties concerned, including Turkey, have proclaimed their respect for the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Cyprus. 16. However, the continued mllitary occupation of parts of Cyprus not only undermines the sovereignty of that Republic but is also a flagrant violation of its territorial integrity and independence. Furthermore, the de facto partition of the island is in contravention of General Assembly resolution 3395 (XXX),which urges all parties to refrain from unilateral actions, including changes in the demographic structure of the island. 17. It serves no purpose to dwell on the history of the recent conflictin Cyprus. But, whatever the motivation and justification for the military intervention in the island, the General Assembly has,in its resolution 3212 (XXIX), urged " the speedy withdrawal of all foreign armed forces and military presence and personnel from the Republic of Cyprus, and the cessation of allforeign iP~erference in its affairs." It also commended the contacts and negotiations between the representatives of the two communities, and called for their continuation with a view to reaching freely a mutually acceptable political settlement based on the fundamental and legitimate rights of those communities. 18. Two years have now passed since the adoption of resolution 3212 (XXIX), yet Cyprus is to all Intents and 19. We believe that the Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot communities, which have lived in peace for so many years, can resolve their problems without foreign interference. The presence of foreign troops does not, in our opinion,increase the chances for an early settlement. 20. Cyprus is a small country and a founding member of the non-aligned movement; its security, like that of many small countries, is guaranteed only by respect for its sovereignty and independence on the part of its neighbours and the international community. It is the responsibility of the United Nations to safeguard its independence by the withdrawal of foreign troops and bases from the island. 21. The ongoing negotiations between the two com- munities should certainly be encouraged, and in the meantime the humanitarian aspects of the problem should be accorded priority in the intercommunal talks. It is our earnest hope that when we come herenext yearCypruswill have been united under a constitutional arrangement acceptable to the two communities, without foreign inter- ference.

More than two years have elapsed since the eruption of the Cyprus crisis in July 1974. The situation there remains turbulent and unstable, and the issue remains unsolved. We have always held that, fundamentally speaking, the Cyprus question is a legacy of prolonged imperialist colonial rule,a result of the imperialist policy of "divide and rule". This question has developed to the presentdegree because of the lack of a satisfactory solution to the internal problems between the two Cypriot communities, but, apart from that, the main cause lies in the active meddling and intervention by the two super-Powers, each of which tries hard to put this island of strategic importance under its own influence and control. The contention between them, particularly the meddling, intervention and sabotage by the super-Power flaunting the banner of "socialism", is the crucial reason why the Cyprus question has remained unsettledover a long period. 23. The rivalry between the two super-Powers extends to all parts of the globe, the focus of their rivalry being in Europe, Situated in an important position in the eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus has been regarded by them as an "aircraft carrierof inestimable strategic importance," and it has naturally become an important target of their fierce contention for hegemony in southern Europe and the Mediterranean. It was precisely against this background that the military coup occurred in Cyprus on 15 July 1974. Both super-Powers made revealing performances around the Cyprus crisis. As a result of its active meddling in the internal affairs of Cyprus and its stirring up of trouble there, one super-Power landed itself in a passive position. Then it tried hard to mend its fence in order to strengthen its position of rivalry, but having over-extended itself, it found its strength unequal to its ambitions. With honey on 24. Chairman Mao Tsetungpointed out: "Make trouble, fail, make trouble again, fail again ... till their doom; that is the logic of the imperialists and all reactionaries the world over in dealing with the people's cause, and they will nevergo against this logic."3 The rivalry between the super-Powers and their meddling in thJ issue have brought untold sufferings to the Cypriot people. Meanwhile, the Cypriot people have realized ever more clearly the true features of hegemonism through their struggles. It is the Cypriot people, and not the one or two super-Powers, that will decide the destiny of Cyprus. Internationally, the struggle of the Cypriot people against hegemonism and for the defence of national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity constitutes an integral part of the third-world peoples' struggle against imperialism and hegemonism. The Cypriot people have a glorious tradition of fighting imperialism. Since they were able to achieve their independence through prolonged struggles, they will certainly be able to consolidate their inde- pendence in the struggle against hegemonism and against super-Power meddling and sabotage. 25. The Chinese Government and people feel deep sym- pathy for the sufferings of the Cypriot people. We are strongly opposed to super-Power contention and inter- vention. We firmly hold that the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Cyprus must be respected. Cyprus, Turkey and Greece are all friends of China. In the past, we allsufferedgreatly from the imperialists' sowing of 3 See Quotations from Chairman Moo Tse-tung (Peking, Foreign Lao!,'U8ges Press, 1966), p. 68. I date. This is not only in the fundamental interests of the two Cypriot communities and the peoples of Greece and Turkey, but it is also a common desire of the peoples of 33. The delegation of the Ukrainian SSR is firmly con- - vinced that there exist at present in Europe favourable opportunities for the further strengthening of peace, in-' eluding a just solution of the Cyprus problem. Sensible consideration of the interests and rights of both com- munities on the island, together with unconditional respect for the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus and without any attempt on the part of imperialist circles to dictate terms, will L", enough to permit a settlement of this acute problem for the benefit of peace and security. ~ various countries who are really concerned about the destiny of the Cypriot people'. 26'. 'Mr. MARTYNENKO (Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Re- public) (interpretation from Russian): One of the problems which unremittingly calls for the unremitting attention of the international community is that of the question of Cyprus. 27. At the present time the situation in Cyprus is little different from the abnormal situation which existed on the island last year when the; thirtieth session of the General Assembly was considering the problem of Cyprus. Five rounds of intercommunal talks, conducted in the shadow of foreign military presence and interference in the internal affairs of Cyprus, have not produced the expected results. 28. The problem of Cyprus remains a dangerous and complicated cause of tension. Tens of thousands of foreign troops are still stationed in the island, and the attempts at dismembering Cyprus have not ended but are being intensified, as are the attempts to destroy the unity of the Cypriot Etate. Asa result of foreign interference the people of Cyprus have been deprived of the normal conditions of life. Tens of thousands of Cypriots have become refugees, and their hopes of returning to their homes remain vain. 29. The presence of foreign troops in Cyprus and of military bases of North Atlantic Treaty Organization INATOj, the de facto partition of the country into two isolated parts, the constant threat to the independence and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus and its status as a non-aligned State, the failure to solve the major problems dividing the two communities, have all had a strong influence on the life of the Cypriots and on the situation in that part of the world. It is now clear to everyone that the attempt to "solve" internal Cypriot problems by means of foreign interference, made in the summer of 1974 has led to innumerable privations for Greek and Turkish Cypriots. . 30. The delegation of the Ukrainian SSR has repeatedly stressed that the complex and dangerous source of tension that is the problem of Cyprus came about as a result of foreign interference in the internal affairs of the island State. More than two years have elapsed since the Cypriot crisis was provoked, and now NATO circles are continuing to weave a web of intrigues and plots around Cyprus. This seriously poisons the situation in the Eastern Mediter- ranean. 31. At the same time, the attempts of certain circles to turn Cyprus into a NATO base, circumventing United 32. While in the past some still tried to maintain that the 'Cypriot problem could not be solved without the use of force, in recent years it has become quite clear that the presence of foreign troops on the island and the Inter- ference of certain NATOcircles are the major obstacles to a settlement. 34. It is also important to note the fact that a settlement of this problem has been the object of resolutions of the Security Council and the General Assembly of the United Nations on the question of CYJmis, which have defined the basis for a settlement of the Cyprus crisis and have excluded any kind of foreign interference in the fate of sovereign Cyprus. 35. We are also convinced that the problems of the internal State structure of the Rej.ublic of Cyprus can and must be solved by the Cypriots themselves, while the external aspects of the problem of Cyprus must be solved on a broad international basis within the United Nations. In this connexion the delegation of the Ukrainian SSR fully supports the Soviet proposal for the convening of a representative international conference on Cyprus under the aegis of the United Nations, with the participation of ' Cyprus, Turkey and Greece, as well as the members of the Security Council and, of course, some others, including non-aligned States. it is precisely such a conference that could find the way to a just settlement of the Cyprus problem on the basis of the decisions of the United Nations and to the elimination of attempts by certain circles to impose on the people of Cyprus a settlement which is contrary to its national interests. 36. We are further persuaded of the correctness of such an approach by the fact that the Government of the Republic of Cyprus is constantly turning to the United Nations for help, thus reminding us of the serious responsibility of the Security Council and the General Assembly for ensuring a peaceful solution of the problem of Cyprus and for defending the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Cyprus, which is a Member of the United Nations. This appeal to the United Nations is also a manifestation of the unwillingness of Cyprus to link its fate to a settlement in the interests of individual countries or military blocs made behind the backs ef the Cypriot people, for this could ~ead only to a further complication of the situation on the island. The non-settlement of the Cyprus problem arouses the justified alarm not only of the 38. The'Ukrainian SSR is in favour of the comprehensive implementation of United Nations decisions on Cyprus, including General Assembly resolutions 3212 (XXIX) and 3395 (XXX), which define the international basis for a political settlement and express the will of the majority of the Members of the United Nations and of general international public opinion, which wish to see Cyprus a sovereign, united and flourishing State, free from any foreign interference. We fully and wholly support the resolutions of the Security Council and the General Assembly strongly demanding the immediate withdrawal of all foreign troops and the ending of foreign interference in the internal affairs of Cyprus, and we reject any act aiming at the partition or annexation of the island. Our delegation is ready to co-operate with anyone in favour of the solution of this problem in the interest of the people of Cyprus, of strengthening peace and of preventing a further build-up of tension in the eastern Mediterranean, 39. We also believe that only an international solution bolstered by the authority of the United Nations is capable of guaranteeing to Cyprus the free exercise of its right to be a sovereign, unified and non-aligned State. A genuine settlement is attainable only on the basis of the immediate implementation of decisions on Cyprus, given guarantees of independence the inadmissibility of partition or enosis, the unconditional withdrawal of all foreign troops and the removal of foreign military bases, the return of refugees to their homes and the granting to the people of Cyprus- Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots-the right to decide their own future. 40. In conclusion, the delegation of the Ukrainian SSR would like once again to stress that the immediate, just and peaceful settlement of the problem of Cyprus is consistent with the interests of all parties involved in the conflict without exception and, above all, with the interests of the Cypriot people and the strengthening of international peace and security.

The General Assembly once again has before it a burning problem, a problem of great concern, which it has discussed many times in the past. It is urgent and necessary to find a just and lasting solution to the problem of Cyprus as soon as possible, a solution in conformity with the aspirations of the people of Cyprus and with the sovereign interests of the State of Cyprus. For that reason, the delegation of Albania believes that efforts must be made to ensure that our discussions do not become sterile discussions, repeated year after year, as has unfortunately happened in respect of a number of other problems. We feel that only a constructive debate, directed above all towards an objective analysis of 42. For years Cyprus has been in a difficult and complex situation as a result of the policy of the imperialist and colonialist Powers, as a result of the positions that some of those Powers have maintained on the island since its independence and, above all, as a result of the foreign military bases installed on its territory. The events that took place in Cyprus two years ago have made the already existing situation even worse. Those events caused the people of Cyprus much damage and suffering. Cyprus h~s become a hotbed of increased tension. Complications and) serious dangers have been created for the people of Cyprus, for their neighbours and for the entire region of the eastern Mediterranean and the Balkans. The people of Cyprus have become the victims of the aggressive designs of the two imperialist super-Powers, of their competition to divide the world into spheres of influence. The increase in tension in Cyprus and in the relations with the neighbouring countries is the lesuit precisely of those designsand that competition. The crisis in Cyprus was unleashed and has become worse basically because of the aggressive activities of the two super-Powers, their interference in the domestic affairs of Cyprus, their manoeuvres to exacerbate the many diffi- culties that have confronted the island since independence. American interests created the Cyprus conflict in order to put into effect their plans to transform that island, which has a strategic geographical positon, into a military base so that it could be integrated into the system of the aggressive NATO bloc. 43. The Soviet socio-imperiallsts, who have a burning desire to achieve the old ambitions and covetous designs of Tsarist Russia in the Mediterranean, lost no time in taking advantage of the opportunity to make gains of their own and to give new impetus to their expansionist policy in the eastern Mediterranean and the Balkans. Two years after those events, we cannot but note with concern that the dangers created as a result of the conflict in Cyprus have not disappeared. We must also note with regret that there has been no progress so far in the various attempts of the two Cypriot communities to draw nearer to a solution of the Cyprus problem. Hence, a tense situation still exists in Cyprus. That is quite rightly a source of concern not only to the people of Cyprus but also to the neighbouring peoples, to the other Balkan peoples and to all the freedom-loving peoples in the world. 44. It is also quite obvious that such a situation is a threat to the peace and security of the eastern Mediterranean and the Balkan peninsula. If that crisis continues, there cannot but be further serious consequences. First of all, there is the great risk that the two super-Powers will exploit that situation to engage, separately or simultaneously, in new attacks on the sovereign rights of the people of Cyprus and on the Balkan countries, where the American imperialists and the Soviet socio-imperlalists are attempting to strengthen their respective positions, to dominate the positions of the other side, and to extend their influence by means of pressure, blackmail, promises and interference in the affairs of various countries. 46. The American imperialists use every possible means to achieve, little by little, the initial purposes for which they brought about the Cyprus conflict. At the present time they have focused their efforts on taking the matter into their own hands, on holding the key to the solution of the problem, and on becoming the sole arbiter in the situation, in the hope that in that way they will manage to impose their will on the parties to the conflict without too much difficulty. To achieve that goal, they are hatching all kinds of plots behind the back of the people of Cyprus; they are weaving all kinds of intrigues; they are unscrupulously inducing one party or the other, at one time or the other, to engage in deals. They take advantage of the slightest opportunity to act in conformity with their preferred method-divide and rule-and to that end they use any means at their disposal, from pressure and blackmail to deceitful diplomatic manoeuvres, from economic and mili- tary offers and policies to alliances and agreements that they have worked out. 47. Of course, the United States of America is not the only participant in the game being played on the back of the people of Cyprus. It would be wrong, and even dangerous, to close our eyes to the activities and designsof the Soviet Union socio-imperlallsts, who also claim and seek their snare of the gains, to the detriment of the people of Cyprus. The facts prove that the appetite of the Soviet socio-imperlalists for expansion in the Mediterranean and the Balkans is constantly increasing and that the Soviet Union, through the game it is playing in respect of the Cyprus question, is seeking-just like the United States of America-to create all kinds of complications in that region in order to revive the old quarrels and cause new ones, and thereby to find pretexts and justifications for present and future interventions. 48. In a first stage, the Soviet Union wishes to consolidate its positions in the rivalry with the United States, in order to be able later to claim more insistently its rights as a partner with the United States in the deals being made to the detriment of Cyprus. The Soviet socio-imperialists constantly pose as friends of the Cypriot people, boast of the so-called aid and suppo .• they give that people, and allege that their only desire is to contribute to finding a settlement to the Cyprus problem and that they have no ulterior motive. They constantly call for the convening of an international conference to consider the question of Cyprus, insist on the establishment of a system of inter- national guarantee for Cyprus, offer their services as 50. The casesof Cyprus and the Middle East, among many others, irrefutably demonstrate this. The constant interfer- ence of the two imperialist super-Powers in the Middle East, the plans they advocate to serve as a basis for a so-called solution to the problems of the region, American diplo- macy and step-by-step mediation, and the Soviet Union's reiterated appeals and manoeuvres for the convening of a conference in Geneva-all have completely failed to make possible the clearing of a path toward a settlement of the problem of the Middle East. Quite the contrary, all this has considerably complicated the situation. The clearest exam- ple of the deleterious consequences of these machinations that we have seen so far has been the tragic events in Lebanon. It is quite possible, and even probable, that, using the same ways and means, the two super-Powers are provokingsimilar events in other regionsof the world. 51. After having expressed these views and considerations, our delegation wishes to emphasize that, to safeguard the interests and rights of the Cypriot people, it is necessary to increase our Vigilance and to oppose with firmness the designs and the aggressive schemesof the two super-Powers vis-a-vis Cyprus. 52. We also believe that, despite the present difficulties, it is not impossible to overcome the obstacles, to put an end to the tense situation in Cyprus through a just and lasting settlement. 53. Certainly, it is the Cypriot people themselves, and they alone, that must in the final analysis clear the path towards such a settlement. 54. Speaking of the problem of Cyprus, the leader of the people of Albania, Enver Hoxha, has emphasized that: "The problems of Cyprus are multifarious, and none of them is easy to settle. But we do believe that both the Greek and Turkish Cypriots are perfectly able to decide their fate for themselves, free of any foreign pressure and on the basis of their sovereign interests." .. 56. The Albanian people has always denounced strongly the aggressive designs of the two imperialist super-Powers against the people of Cyprus, their interference in the domestic affairs of Cyprus and all machinations of the imperialist and socio-imperialists to turn the Cyprus prob- lem into a focus of rivalry and bargaining among them. 57. The position of the People's Republic of Albania with regard to the problem of Cyprus is clear and well known. Expressing our position once again in the general debate, the head of the Albanian delegation stated on 4 October: "A just settlement of the problem of Cyprus is of particular importance for peace and stability in the Balkans and in neighbouring areas. The Albanian Govern- ment has always been in favour of the existence of a free and independent State of Cyprus. We have always supported respect for its sovereignty and territorial integrity and a settlement of the problem of Cyprus by the two communities of the island, who should live in harmony and understanding." [15th meeting, para. 103.J

The question of Cyprus and the cause of the Cypriot people have always received profound attention from the people and Government of Egypt, for the two nations are linked by warm relations and an ancient friendship that has endured throughout history. It.is thus in no way surprising that Egypt is sympathetically following the course of events in Cyprus. I would even say there are many reasons why Egypt and the Egyptian people should view with concern the tragic development of the sad events on Cyprus, across rhe narrow strip of the Mediterranean, which separates Egypt from Cyprus. 59. The first reason for Egypt's interest in Cyprus is perfectly clear, for the strategic position of the island in the eastern Mediterranean and the implications of the deteriora- tion of security and peace on the island for security and peace in the region constantly require that Egypt should in all sincerity support all efforts to restore stability and peace in Cyprus. 60. The reason for our interest in this question lies in our conviction that Cyprus is like a bridge linking peace and security in the Middle East to peace and security elsewhere, and notably in Europe. 61. Our third reason for concern with regard to the future of Cyprus is easily understood by anyone who visits our part of the world. Throughout history a warm friendship has linked the Egyptian and Cypriot peoples. The history of civilization in the Middle East and the Mediterranean cannot be spoken of without reference to the close links which unite the peoples of the region, peoples which have aided the development of thought and civilization through their relations in the philosophical and material fields. 63. Our position is based on the following principles. First, our faith in the principle of respect for the peace and security of peoples, non-interference in internal affairs and the non-use of small and peace-loving States and peoples. Second, we believe it is also necessary that all peoples should be able to enjoy the rights of which they have been deprived and to return to the land that has been taken from them by armed force. Third, we must support relations of solidarity among non-aligned peoples, and we must stress their right to defend themselves and their need for support from their friends. We must also emphasize the need to establish a new order in international relations that would be in the interests of all nations that wish to live in peace. Whether those nations are large or small, this is in conformity with the principle of the right to justice and law. It is necessary that the small countries should be able to live in independence and to enjoy well-being. Fourth, my country also thinks that the two communities should choose the system that suits them and exercise their rights without foreign interference. Fifth and finally, it is neces- sary to maintain the unity of the people and to reject any appeal for secession or division. These are principles that form part of Egypt's foreign policy. 64. In the light of those considerations, Egypt supported the resolutions of the General Assembly adopted at its twenty-ninth and thirtieth session and now demands their immediate implementation. These resolutions call for the immediate withdrawal of all foreign troops from Cypriot territory, the return of all refugees to their homes in security, the ending of any foreign interference in the affairs of Cyprus and the provision of guarantees of the independence, sovereignty and .territorial integrity and non-alignment of Cyprus. 65. Almost two years have passed since the adoption of resolution 3212 (XXIX) and one since resolution 3395 (XXX) on the question of Cyprus. Unfortunately, today we can only deplore the fact that little progress has been made in the implementation of those resolutions. Indeed, after a period of great hopes that the intercom- munal talks would smooth out the difficulties separating the two communities, we have been surprised to learn that those talks, which are the only basis for reaching agreement on the settlement of their problems, have been broken off. Egypt can only express its lively concern at the fact that those talks have ceased and that the situation has come to a standstill, as this poses many dangers to regional as well as international peace and security. 66. Hence my country appeals to all the parties con- cerned, with which we have friendly relations, immediately 67. Egypt believes it necessary, if there is a sincere desire to take serious action to solve the problem, to create an appropriate atmosphere so that the people of Cyprus may freely choose the way of life and the form of government that suits them best. It is for that reason that we appeal to all parties to refrain from unilateral actions designed in the short term to consolidate faits accomplis which might contain the seeds of a conflict leading to war in the longer term.. 68. One of the urgent problems that must be settled immediately is that of the Cyprus refugees. In our view, high priority should be given to settlement of the problem of these thousands of Cypriots who are still sufferingfrom the tragedy to which they fell victim when they were driven from their homes and lost their possessions. 69. We believe that there is immense potential in Cyprus for ensuring the welfare and well-being of an Cypriots in the two Cypriot communities, and we hope that a peaceful solution to the problem will be found so that the entire population of Cypruscan lead a fruitful and prosperous life safe from any acts of violence and without concern for the future. 70. In conclusion, I wish to pay a tribute to the Secretary-General, Mr. Kurt Waldheim, for the tireless ef- forts he has made last year, with devotion and responsi- bility, to facilitate the talks between the representatives of the two communities, in New York and Vienna. We hope he will continue these efforts, supported by the General Assembly; so that the representatives of the two Cypriot communities may resume negotiations with a view to finding understanding and a just peace.

The key-stone of the foreign policy of the Republic of Panama is the principle of the territorial integrity of States and their fun sovereignty over their national territory. That is why, from the very beginning of the tragic events in Cyprus, my delegation has been emphasizing the fact that any settlement of the conflict must take as a point of departure the fact that the people of that country, which is a Member of the United Nations, has the full right to exercise its self-determination through a legitimately elected Government recognized by the entire world: the Government headed by Archbishop Makarios. 72. If the Cypriot Government and people are currently unable fully to exercise their rights throughout the territory of their country, this is the result of an act of force, of aggression, on the part of foreign invading troops obedient to a Power which has no right to intervene in the normal democratic process of the political life of Cyprus. 73. My delegation favours the prompt adoption of the necessary measures to ensure respect for the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Cyprus. 75. Naturally, the problem must be solved at the nego- tiating table and in accordance with the principles of the United Nations. However, any kind of settlement which our Organization may sponsor must be basedon the fact that a sovereign State exists on Cyprus. 76. Prior recognition of this doesnot preclude recognition of the rights of all sectors of the Cypriot population, nor does it impede the search for a just, democratic and effective modus vivendi between the two principal com- munities on the island. 77. In conclusion, ':!"e wish to voice our fervent hope that the Secretary-General of the United Nations will continue his conciliatory efforts and. facilitate, through his good offices, the establishment of a fruitful negotiatingdialogue. Regional-and, indeed, international-peace and security so require. That is also the desire of the Members of this world Organization, which place the highest possible value on the cultural values represented by the Cypriot nation.

When the General Assembly considers a matter that may imperil international peace and security, the preservation of which is the chief aim of the United Nations, as may the question of Cyprus, Mexico considers it not only its prerogative but indeedits duty to participatein the debate. 79. Already in 1958, before the independence of Cyprus, we expressed in this forum our conviction that the just solution of this problem must be achieved by peaceful means in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter. 80. None the less, we have observed with considerable concern that resolutions approved in previous years, specif- ically General Assembly resolutions 3212 (XXIX) and 81. This, let me say in passing, leads us to think about one of the most critical problems of the United Nations, that is, the absence of a political willin Member States to abide by decisions adopted in accordance with the United Nations Charter, perhaps because they are certain that they can act with impunity. - 82. None the less, in this panorama of constantly changing circumstances, the need for the international community to seek ways of preserving the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus, as the basis of its survival, remains unchanged. 83. Countless statements have been made at this rostrum in the past appealingto all States to refrain from any act or intervention directed against Cyprus. This deserves repeti- tion again today. 84. Moreover, Mexico firmly believes that the only way to settle the critical situation now prevailing in Cyprus-which, we hope, will be merely temporary-is through constructive negotiations between representatives of the Greek Cypriot community and the Turkish Cypriot community, con- ducted freely on a basis of equality and with respect for the rights of minorities, in order to achieve a political arrange- ment acceptable to both parties based on their fundamental and legitimate rights. For this purpose, however, all armed forces and foreign military bases in the Republic of Cyprus must be withdrawn immediately and unconditionally. Urgent measures must also be adopted to facilitate the voluntary return of all refugees to their homes in conditions of security. 85. The interested parties also bear important responsi- bilities to the international community, which they must discharge, mainly by co-operating fully with the United Nations Peace-keeping Force in Cyprus. In addition, once negotiations have been concluded, they must co.nply with the agreements reached in meetings and conversations previously held under the auspices of the United Nations Secretary-General. 86. In this connexlon, the unilateral measures that have been adopted cannot be justified, particularly those which encourage in any way whatever a change in the demo- graphic structure of the island, since that would weaken any effort to achieve the desired objective. No situation created by such measures should influence the final settlement of the Cyprus question. 87. The delegation of Mexico cannot but mention the praiseworthy work which the Secretary-General has carried out in compliance with the mandate conferred upon him by the General Assembly and the Security Council.The object of his efforts was to bring about a speedy and effective 89. It is incumbent on Member States to act together in helping the United Nations to play its role as the keeper of international peace and security. If an appropriate settle- ment of the question of Cyprus is not found within a reasonable time v.n the basis of the relevant resolutions, that role will surely be diminished, to the detriment of the prestige of the United Nations.

The tragic struggle in Cyprus has taken on new dimensions in the past two years and the conditions of life of tens of thousands of Cypriots have deteriorated. The problems of displaced persons, refugees and missing persons have become more involved, and at the same time the imminent danger threatening the unity, independence and territorial integrity of the island has become increasingly clear, while the efforts to organize talks between the two communities in Cyprus under the auspices of the United Nations Secretary-General have achieved no tangible pro- gress that might give ground for optimism or hope. 91. A glance at the map explains the concern of the Syrian Arab Republic in particular, and of all Arab countries of the Middle East in general, with regard to the deterioration of the situation in Cyprus and the fact that a just solution, acceptable to the parties concerned and safeguarding the unity and independence of Cyprus, has not so far been found. The fair shores of Cyprus are only 60 milesfrom the Syrian coast and the entire island is analogous to an aircraft carrier constantly anchored near the Arab shores of the Mediterranean. Unfortunately, this is not simply a figure of speech. The foreign military bases on the island have been used repeatedly in the past as a launching pad for aircraft and ships in the invasion of Arab countries and aggression against those countries, as was the case with the aggression against Egypt in 1956 as well as the Zionist aggression against Egypt, Syria and Palestine in 1967. 92. The geographical proximity of Cyprus to the Arab countries of the Mediterranean has been the main factor underlying their close co-operation and friendship and the cultural and commercial exchanges between them through- out history. Those bonds have been cemented by the traditional brotherhood and friendship linking the Arab peoples to the two countries to which the two communities of Cyprus by their culture and religion belong, namely the countries of Turkey and Greece. When Cyprus was pro- claimed independent in 1960 the Arab countries were the first to congratulate the independent Cypriot people and promised it that they would establish economic and cultural links with the young Republic. The noble attitude 93. Proceeding from this principle, the Syrian Arab Republic has been completely satisfied with the policy of non-alignment adopted from the outset by the Republic of Cyprus and has always defended the integrity and indepen- dence of Cyprus and its policy of non-alignment, That is why-Syria has constantly and vigorously supported the statements of the Conferences of Heads of State or Government of Non-Aligned Countries with regard to the question of Cyprus, including that of the Fifth Conference, held in Colombo last August, which stressed the need to respect the non-alignment of Cyprus and called for the immediate implementation of United Nations resolutions on this question. The policy statement of the Fifth Conference of ncn-allgned Countries stated: "In urging the Immediate implementation of United Nations resolutions, the Conference called upon' all States to respect the sovereignty, indepo~~Jence, territorial integ- rity and non-alignment of Cyprus; demanded the im- mediate and unconditional withdrawal of foreign armed forces and other foreign military presence from Cyprus; and, called for the initiation of urgent measures to ensure the safe return of all refugees to their homes. The Conference supported the COt tinuation of meaningful and constructive negotiations between the representatives of the Greek-Cypriot and Turkish-Cyprlot communities freely conducted on an equal footing, which should lead to a mutually satisfactory and freely acceptable agree- ment .. .".[A/31/197, annex I, para. 86./4 94. My delegation thinks that the wording of that para- graph, as well as the other paragraphs of the Colombo policy statement with regard to the question of Cyprus, constitutes a good basis for fmding a just political solution to the Cypriot conflict. We support, in particular, the idea that weshouldencourage meetings of the representatives of the two communities so that they may engage in a serious, fruitful and positive dialogue under the aegis of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, in conformity with resolutions 3212 (XXIX) and 3395 (XXX). We are convinced that the two Cypriot communities, which have 4 Quotedin English by the speaker. 95. Any establishment of an international or national entity on religious or other grounds would contain the seeds of fanaticism and division. Recent history has proved that entities formed on religious grounds can bring only destruction and suffering; and even more recent history has shown that the division of a single entity on religious grounds is unacceptable to the international community. Thus it is in the interest of Cypriots to be, above all, Cypriots, rather than Greeks or Turks, for their allegiance to Cyprus will not in any way interfere with their cultural or religious affinities as Cypriot Greeks or Turks, while attachment to the Greek or Turkish identity on an exclusive basis can only damage their allegiance to their native land and their identity as children of a single fatherland. 96. We hope that a just peace will be established on Cyprus in conformity with the following considerations: first, the geographical proximity of Cyprus to the Arab countries and the links of friendship, co-operation and mutual interest between the Arab peoples and the Cypriot peoples; secondly, the traditional cultural links, of a warm and friendly nature, between the Arab countries and the two maritime nations from which the Cypriot people come, namely, Greece and Turkey;thirdly, the interdependence as far as security is concerned of Cyprus and the Arab countriesin view of the strategic situation and the historical precedents in the region; fourthly, absolute faith in the right of the Cypriot people, with its two communities, to independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity in the framework of a single nation; fifthly, respect for the non-alignment of the Republic of Cyprus, solidarity with the Cypriot people in safeguarding its character and preventing its being changed in any way,and recognition of the necessity for the immediate elimination of foreign bases in the island and for allowing the Cypriot people properly to exercise its right to self-determination. 97. For those reasons, we believe that the draft resolution on the question of Cyprus in document A/31 IL.17, submitted by Algeria, Guyana, India, Mali and Yugoslavia, is compatible, in particular, with the fourth and fifth principles that I have enumerated. That is why we support it and thank that group of non-aligned countries, which has worked unceasingly OIl behalf of the non-aligned countries to help us find a just solution to the problem of Cyprus. 98. The Syrian Arab Republic affirms its support for any peaceful solution of the problem of Cyprus which takes into account the principles I have listed, and we hope that the friendly Cypriot people, with its two communities, Greek and Turkish, will smooth out all the difficulties and obstacles to the establishment of peace in their territories and peace and security in the whole country. ' 100. During the consideration by the Security Council in June of this year of the question of the United Nations operations in Cyprus, it was noted in document Si12093 that the situation there continued to deteriorate and that there was still considerable tension on the island, while the problems resulting from the events of 1974 remained unsolved. un. Everyone well remembers the events of 1974 when, as u result of flagrant foreign interference, the independent Republic of Cyprus, a State Member of the United Nations, was plunged into a profound crisis; 200,000 Cypriots became refugees in their own country andwere doomed to grevious privations and suffering. The action of certain international circles further exacerbated the crisis and turned it in~o a grave threat to peace and security. 102. The United Nations and its organs took many important positive and constructive steps with a view to finding means of solving this problem. 103. Unfortunately, in violation of the well-known deci- sions of the General Assembly and the Security Council, which are the basis for a political settlement of this problem, foreign interference in the affairs of Cyprus continues to this day. Foreipn troops are stillstationed over wide areas of the island, and behind the backs of the Cypriot people attempts are being made by foreign Powers to destroy the independence and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus, deprive it of the opportunity to pursue its policy of non-alignment and getit in their hands so asto turn it into a strategic NATO military base in the Mediterranean. Those forces thus continue to act-certain circles which not only do not want to unravel thisintricate knot of dangerous tension in the area of the eastern Mediterranean but are doing everything they can to pull that knot tighter. Such intentions have nothingat all to do with the task of maintaining the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus. 104. It is typical that the representative of a country beh'nging precisely to those circles, during his statement yesterday in the debate on tll;S question, did not find it possible to utter a single word about the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Cyprus. Noobjective and realistic thinking person could fail to recognize who was speaking and for what reason. 105. Another representative who spoke today at this rostrum said nothing at all about the substance of the question of Cyprus; he merely repeated the outworn fabrications against all those peace-loving forces which are playing an important and positive role in international relations. It would be unworthy to enter into a polemic with that speaker with regard to hisslanderous fabrications. I 107. Such an intolerable situation as that which has developed around the Cypriot problem cannot fail to arouse the profoundly justified concern of world public opinion. In this eonnexion, we cannot faU to note the call for the demilitarization of the island, the withdrawal of all foreign troops and the dismantling of the foreign bases-an important condition for a lasting settlement of the Cypriot problem. 108. Our delegation has repeatedly noted and stresses again that the lack of progress with regard to a settlement of the problem of Cyprus is a further conflrrnatlon of the fact that the best opportunity for a settlement of that problem would be provided by the implementation of the Soviet proposal on the convening of a representative international conference on Cyprus within the framework of the United Nations. As we all know, in June this year the Soviet Union again confirmed that proposal and called for its implementation, and this, indeed, is what we heard from the representative of the Soviet Union when he spoke yesterday at the 63rd meeting. 109. In the view of the delegation of the Byelorussian SSR the adoption and implementation of that proposal would certainly promote the attainment of a just and peaceful settlement of the Cypriot problem, would be consistent with the interests of the people of Cyprus and the interests of peace and security in the eastern Mediterranean, and would promote an easing of international tension. That proposal is organically linked with our advocacy of an active role for the United Nations in the settlement of the Cypriot problem. 110. At the same time, we mustnot overlook the fact that the opponents of that proposal are t,.ssentially putting forward nothing constructive in exchange, although they are at the same time onposlng itsapproval. Again and again they try to reassure the General Assembly with talk about new possibilities and prospects for talksof a different kind, but in doing that they are only trying to lead the world community into confusion. 111. The delegation of the Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic believes that it is time to put an immediate end to any further beeting about the bush with regard to a settlement of the Cypriot problem. Every day lost aggra- vates the difficulties of solving this problem and brings new suffering to many thousands of Cypriots. The threats to the independence, territorial integrity and sovereignty of Cyprus are becoming increasingly evident and real. All 112. At the present time, the demand for an immediate, just and democratic solution of the Cypriot problem has the support of the overwhelming majority of the States of the world and broad areas of, progressive world public opinion. 113. Solidarity with the people of Cyprus was expressed by the participants in the Conference of Communist and Workers' Parties of Europe, which took place in the summer of this year in the capital of the German Democratic Republic, Berlin. The participants demanded the immediate implementation of the United Nations resolutions on Cyprus, which provide for respect for the independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and non- alignment of the Republic of Cyprus. They called for the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of all foreign forces from Cyprus and the immediate return of all refugees to their homes in conditions which guarantee their security, as well as a peaceful solution of the Cypriot problem by means of rational and constructive negotiations between the two Cypriot communities, under the aegis of the United Nations, designed to ensure that in an atmosphere of freedom and equality a settlement can be achieved which will be consistent with the interests of the two population groups in Cyprus, the Greeks and the Turks. 114. The just cause of the Republic of Cyprus has the broad support of the non-aligned movement, which binds together the majority of countries of Asia, Africa and Latin America. The Political Declaration adopted at the Fifth Conference of non-aligned countries in Colombo expressed solidarity with the Government and people of Cyprus and, supported General Assembly resolution 3212 (XXIX), ap- proved by Security Council resolution 365 (1974), which set out the principles and bases for a solution of the Cypriot problem, Security Council resolution 367 (1975) and General Assemb solution 3395 (XXX), as well as the decisions of the non-aligned countries on this question. 115. Our delegation views the provisions relating to Cyprus in the Political Declaration adopted at the Fifth Conference of Heads of State or Government of Non- AlignedCountries in Colombo as a document which reflects the views of the overwhelming majority of the States of the world and makes an important contribution to the struggle for a settlement of the Cypriot problem in the interests of Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots alike. 116. The Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic, as it has done in the past, categorically calls for the immediate implementation of United Nations decisions on Cyprus, the attainment of a speedy political settlement of the Cypriot crisis and the rejection of a development of events which would lead to a further aggravation of the situation in that part of the world. In accordance with the resolutions of the General Assembly and the Security Council, a settlement of 117. The solution of these key problems will promote the settlement of the Cypriot question on a just and democratic basis and will remove the dangeroussource of international tension in that part of the world. 118. The delegation of the Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic believes that at this session also the United Nations must call decisively for the protection of the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Cyprus. 119. The just solution of the Cypriot problem and the elimination of a dangerous source of international tension in the eastern Mediterranean would promote the further strengthening and consolidation of the processof detente in international relations and the strengthening of universal peace and security. It is the duty of the United Nations to adopt effective and immediate measures in that direction.

As the Assembly proceeds this year with its debate on the question of Cyprus, it is incontestable that an atmosphere of concern, not to say gloom, prevails, and indeed there is much reason for concern. The grave situation in the island has remained virtually unchanged since this agenda item was discussed during last year's session of the Assembly and we regret to note that few, if any, significant steps forward were achieved despite the tireless personal efforts of the Secretary-General and his Special Representativein Cyprus. 121. I should like to tske this opportunity to express our appreciation to the Secretary-General and to Ambassador Perez de Cuellar of Peru, his Special Representative in Cyprus, for seeking to maintain the momentum with respect to the earliest possible resumption of the dialogue between the two communities in Cyprus. 122. My delegation has always tried loyally to help the Assembly and other bodies of the United Nations in which it has been called upon to express its views to form a clear and precise assessment of the situation in Cyprus in order to enable the Organization to formulate a coherent policy. As a guiding principle in this assessment, I should like to reiterate today the deep and continuing interest of my country in the fate and the future of Cyprus and its communities, with which Austria has maintained historical links of friendship over the centuries. Our attitude on the question of Cyprus is principally based also on unwavering support for the maintenance of the independence, sover- eignty and territorial integrity of the Republic. 123. We have read with attention the report of the Secretary-General to the Security Council dated 30 October 1976,5 which clearly reflects the great difficulties which 124. In this connexion I should like to recall General Assembly resolution 3450 (XXX) of 9 December 1975, which, interalia, "Requests the Secretary-General to exert every effort, in close co-operation with the International Committee of the Red Cross, to assist in tracing and accounting for persons missing as a result of armed conflict in Cyprus". We hope that it will be possible for both parties to agree to the substantial and constructive proposals put forth by the International Committee of the Red Cross, to which paragraph 10 of the aforementioned report of the Secretary-General refers. 125. As it seems difficult to achieve progress in the humanitarian field, it is hardly surprising that other more political aspects of the question of Cyprus have remained without change too. The different interpretations of an exchange of relevant written proposals as agreed upon in the fifth round of intercommunal talks resulted in -a complete standstill in the dialogue and. despite renewed efforts undertaken by the Secretary-General last September and despite concrete procedural proposals, both parties have maintained their previously stated reservations, which have eventually reintroduced the main elements of their positions which remain in conflict. 126. Even so, thanks to the Secretary-General's continuing good offices, we have at least succeeded in maintaining a narrow basis for further negotiations between the represen- tatives of the two communities, fragile as that basis might appear from time to time. But we strongly believe-and this has been pointed out by more than one speaker in this debate-that only a rapid resumption of meaningful sub- stantive negotiations which try as far as possible to steer clear of tricky parts of the procedural obstacles can bring about a lasting solution to this most difficult problem. Formulas which insist on compromise rather than sacrifice should certainly serve both parties as a common basis in their important undertaking. 127. In this context I would not wish to miss the opportunity to pay a special tribute to the members of the United Nations Peace-keeping Force in Cyprus, which have again performed an outstanding role under often difficult and adverse circumstances. All members of the Force can be included in this tribute. The continuing presence of the peace-keeping contingents has averted renewed breaches of the ciase-flre agreement of 1971 as well as a new outbreak 128. My country is proud to have been one of the first to make peace-keeping personnel available to the United Nations Peace-keeping Force in Cyprus. We have continued to do so since 1964, and in the course of the years have considerably increased the number of our personnel serving under the United Nations flag and, at the same time, helped in achieving the over-all aim of maintaining a somewhat more stable situation. The burden which my country has been willing to shoulder was not only financial, because some of our nationals lost their lives during their tours of duty in Cyprus. 129. While there is now quasi-unanimity in recognizing the indispensable role of the Force, and while the Security Council continues to renew its mandate, it is most regrettable and hardly comprehensible that not all sectors of the international community have shown a readiness to contribute towards the relatively small cost of maintaining an efficient and uninterrupted operation. While by 1974 the General Assembly unanimously adopted resclution 3212 (XXIX), which in paragraph 8 would even permit a further strengthening of the Force, the number of States which since the inception of the Force have made financial contributions remains stable at approximately 60. I should also like to mention that most troop-contributing coun- tries-ar.d Austria is no exception-bear a considerable percentage of the cost themselves. This situation is, to say the least, totally unsatisfactory, and the Secretary-General himself stated earlier this year that the Force might well one day find itself unable to continue to function at all for lack of funds. 130. I shoi-ld like here to point out that any operational unit established in the common interest of maintaining peace and security should also be financed on a common basis. In this context we should like to remind the Assembly of the strong appeal made here on 29 September by the Secretary of State for External Affairs of Canada {9th meeting] -an appeal which should no longer be ignored by the international community. 131. In conclusion, we are fully aware that the problem involved in a permanent and just settlement of the problem of Cyprus are most complex indeed. Certainly, the events of July and August 1974 and their consequences are at the origin of the present crisis. But who can be unaware of the fact that a situation of crisis, a situation of communal tension and unrest, a situation of suffering and an acute sense of injustice prevailed even before that date, since only fev "f the aspirations of one of the two communities had beet. ulfilled? Of course, the reversal of the situation by force has only resulted in new suffering, new tension, new difficulties on the path of the harmonious coexistence of the two communities in Cyprus-communities which by force of history, by force of geography, but also by force of the political configuration of our contemporary world, are condemned to live together. The crisis and the suffering have deeply affected both communities. It is the human 133. It would seem logical, therefore, that every effort be made by the representatives of the two communities to resume the negotiations on a basis of equality, without external interference, at the earliest possible moment, so that those two communities may determine together their common fate and may work out together the many intricate problems that have to be faced, such as the constitutional arrangements necessary to satisfy the legit- imate aspiration of both communities to a stable political future. 134. Unilateral acts, partial solutions or the repetition of sterile accusations cannot be considered a useful contribu- tion in this respect. The general framework for future 135. It is in that spirit, and in a spirit of profound sympathy for the people and communities of Cyprus, that my delegation expressesthe hope that this year the General Assembly will be able to provide the momentum so urgently required for a solution of the many problems facing the Republic of Cyprus. The meeting rose at 1.15 p.m.