A/33/PV.49 General Assembly

In speaking on the question of Cyprus I snould like to note at the outset that in the Canadian view a geod start has been made thi:; year in our consideration of the item with the agreement of \.1r. Denkta§ and Mr. Michaelide~ to expound the view- points of the Cypriot communities in the Special Political Committee.! This procedure has helped greatly to il- luminate various aspects of a very difficult situation. We believe such a procedure to be particularly appropriate when we are dealing with, as the Secretary-General puts it in his annual report on the work of the Organization, one of the '(hree main political problems where the Organization ha~ specific responsibilitiesIsee A/33/1 J sect. 1111. , 2. The Canadian delegation, while sometimes disheartened by the seeming intractability of the problems in Cyprus, has been encouraged by at least one consideration, and that is that both sides seem to be agreed that the United Nations can and indeed must be involved in the process of finding an accommodation. In this connexion we have of course noted that the Secretary-General continues to take a close personal interest in the problems of Cyprus, as exemplified by the round of visits which he made to Turkey, Cyprus and G.-eece in January of this year. We hllve also noted with satisfaction that a successor to Ambassador Perez de Cuellar of Peru was appointed in May of this year as the Secretary-Generars Sgecial Representative in Cyprus. We wish every success to Ambassador Galindo roh] of El Salvador in his efforts, ?.J1d we are confident that Member States and the parties concerned in Cyprus will afford both him and the Secretary-General himself their full support and co-operation. 3. Canada's interest in the Cyprus que:::tion sterns partly from general concern for the maintenance of peace and security in the eastern Mediterranean, but it stems also from concern for the plight of a fellow member of the Commonwealth. The principal focus of our involvement NEW YORK remains, however, the presence on the island, for the fifteenth consecutive year, of a Canadian contingent as part of UNFICYP. A total of over 20,000 Canadian soldiers have ,now served in Cyprus, and many of these servicemen have served several tours of duty there. Their assign;ilent has not ,been easy, but we are proud of the contribution these men have m~de-along with their comrade soldiers and police- men from the United Kingdvm, Sweden, Denmark, Fin- land, Austria, Ireland and Australia-to the practical imple- mentation of United Natio~s peace-keeping operations. 4. I should like to recall that in the Security Council debate last June on the renewal of the mandate of UNFICYP I made reference to two aspects of the Cyprus question on which some movement might be possible.2 The first was the possibility that Nicosia international airport might be reopened for normal traffic. The second was the possibility that Varosha might once again be resettled. We have been pleased to note that references to such a possible resettlement Lave been included in speeches at this sef'":ion of the General Assembly by representatives of both Cypriot communities. 5. In their contributions to thi: debate representatives of both communities have referred to the underlying problems of their tro1lbled land. The Foreign Minister of Cyprus, Mr. Nicos Rolandis, rightly evoked the Turkish military intervention of 1974 and the suffering which was ~aused thereby [45th meeting]. In this connexion the question of missing persons is a matter of great concern to us and indeed to the Canadian people. But in turn Mr. Denkta§ has referred equally pertinently to the desperll.te situation prevailing ,n Cyprus prior to 1974 and the Turkish intervention. These two differing but complementary view- points illustrate once again the necessity for recommencing, in the words of Mr. Rolandis, the intercommunal negotia- tions on a meaningful basis. A basis has, of course, already been laid out in the joint communique issued by the late Archbishop Makarios and Mr. Denkta§ in February 19773 and the four points contained therein. In this context we have noted with some' satisfaction that Mr. Denkta~ and Mr. Michaelides are in agreement that those 1977 guidelines remain valid as a framework for any resumed inter- communal negotiations. We also recognize that for those negotiations to be meaningful there will have to be, at least implicitly, mutual recognition of the realities. These include the need for the Turkish Cypriot community to be flexible on the issues of territory and for the Greek Cypriots to satisfy some essential requirements of the Turkish Cypriot community with respect to constitutional arrangements. In this connexion we were heartened to hear that representa- A/33/PV.49 6. Canadian spokesmen at the United Nations have been reiterating on every possible occasion that the process of peace-keeping, in which Canada js engaged in Cyprus, should be accompanied by peace-making. As a contributor to UNFICYP, we would like to be satisfied that this is indeed the case. Quite frankly, we need to be reassured by the actions of the parties concerned that the search for a mutually tolerable accommodation is in fact being pursued " earnestly and with determination. We think it reasonable to expect that the parties will bend their efforts to finding an accommodation that enables UNFICYP to leave Cyprus, rather than keep it there as a guardian of the status quo. 7. On another aspect, we have made our views known on the lack of financial support for this operation. I do not propose to repeat them, but· I must say that we cannot continue to contemplate an indefinite peace-keeping pres- ence in Cyprus. We are finding it increasingly difficult, before our public opinion, to justify Canadian participation in peace-keeping operations when they show little sign of contributing to the process of peace-making. 12. The United Nations is capable of providing neutral security forces to maintain peace in the island, as it has done for many years. With the neutral United Nations security forces, the necessary climate of peace and trust has a chance of developing, and this will allow the inter- communal talks to be resumed in order to fmd a permanent solution to the problem. The existence of the invad3ng forces from Turkey provide an inhibiting factor of the greatest magnitude in the restoration of the peace and intercommunal trust basic to any meaningful negotiations. 8. The Canadian Government has been actively con· sidering variou~ aspects of the Cyprus problem in the past . year. During the past 12 months the Secretary of State for External Affairs, Mr. Jamieson, has visited Greece, Cyprus and Turkey and had useful discussions with the political leaders in all those countries. In addition, the Turkish Foreign Minister has just been in Ottawa. Through thes~ various encounters we are convinced that a useful dialogue can and must be maintained both here in the United Nations and elsewhere. 13. For this reason we hold '-'e view that the invading forces should be withdrawn firs'l.. Adequate United Nations forces should provide the necessary security for the communities while they look for a permanent solution to their problem. 9. We hope and pray that the intercommunal negotiations, through ·'he good offices of the Secretary-General, will recommence shortly. To encourage this development, we believe that it is incumbent upon the General Assembly to adopt resolutions which all delegations can support and implement, and to eschew language which would merely exacerbate the political tensions which unfortunately still exist in the island. By way of conclusion, I would like to endorse a passage in the statement made earlier this week by the representative of the Greek Cypriot community, Mr. Michaelides. In his statement he said: 14. We are convinced that the problem of Cyprus is r::>t insurmountable and that it is possible for a solution to be worked out .through discussions and negotiations between the two Cypriot commulJities. We do hot believe that a solution to the problem of Cyprus wili be found in proposals which are based on absurd and evil concepts of racism. We cannot fmd any justification for seeking to separate the people of Cyprus on the basis of their ethnic origins. Indeed, we are bound to oppose .any such proposals in principle. We do not believe that the agreements worked out on a humanitaiian oasis to provide relief to refugees and other displaced persons in Cyprus by moving them to certain areas temporarily should be used as a basis for a permanent solution. We cannot, therefore, lend any support to the separation of races or to the division of the Republic of Cyprus on ethnic grounds. 'W,:- believe it is possible"to work out constitutional arrangements for a Government of the Republic of Cyprus which will take care of and provide opportunities for all the people of Cyprus, irrespective of their race, creed or place of residence. "We want peace in Cyprus, and in seeking peace we are looking not to the past but to the fu _re. Past conflicts, whether in Cyprus or anywhere else in the world, cannot be a guide to the future, if the future is to be one of peace for humanity."4 There can be no better basis for an early resumption of the dialogue between the two communities. 11. The conti~med occupatinn by the invading forces of Turkey is a sure deterrent to any meaningful negotiations between the two Cypriot communities because the invasion forces provide unlawful advantages to the Turkish com- munity nn Cyprus, which that community can only hope to continue to hold with the support of the Turkish oc- cupation forces. ... 16. Bearing in mind our commitment to the principles of the Unite~ Nations Charter and our historical experience, we shall support the work of the United Nations, through the good offices of the Secretary-General, to provide the necessary forces to create peace in Cyprus. We support the demand of the United Nations that the invasion forces of Turkey be withdrawn from Cyprus to allow the necessary climate to develop for the intercommunal talks and we shall encourage th~ two communities to work out constitutional arrangements which will make it possible for Cyprus to remain a viable, sovereign and independent State. 17. While working on the long-term solution of the problem, we shall also support humanitarian action to reduce the suffering of the refugees and displaced persons; but we shall not support efforts to divert these short-term activities towards a racist separation of peorles of Cyprus. We are happy to be a sponsor of the draft resolution that is currently before the General Assembly [A/33/L. 7 and Add1], because we believe, as on previous occasions, that it provides 'a framework for the solution of this long- standing problem.

Earlier in this debate the representative of the Federal Republic of Germany made a statement on behalf of the nine members of the European Community [46th meeting}. That state- ment ~ave the views of my delegation. As the representative of a country which has had the closest of links with Cyprus for a great number of years, I should like to take a few moments of the Assembly's time to add to what my colleague has said by underlining the importance that my Government attaches to an early settlement of the problem of Cyprus. 19. The problem of Cyprus, with all its concomitant human tragedies and its embittering effect on relations between countries with which Britain has long-standing ties of friendship and alliance, seems-at least superficially-no nearer to a solution. 20. Intercommunal talks have not been revived. Proposals have been submitted, both on a comprehensive basis and on certain aspects of the Cyprus problem. But the indispen- sable process of negotiation has not been resumed. We said last yearS that we did not believe, as was sometimes argued, that time was on the side of a settlement in Cyprus. We continue to believe that the task of reaching a settlement 5 Ibid.. Thirty·second Session. Plenary Meetings. 62nd meeting, paras. 50-61. 22. The Secretary-General also referred to the very con- siderable contribution of UNFICYP in maintaining peace on the island despite the lack of progress towards a political settlement. J endorse this tribute to the work of UNFICYP. But it needs to be reiterated that the Force must not be regarded as a permanency. Fourteen years of service in Cyprus is already far too long. 23. There is, in the view of the British Government, no alternative, if a lasting settlement in Cyprus is to be brought about, to dii-ect negotiations between the parties. We have therefore attached, and continue to attach, the highest importance to the intercommunal talks under the auspices of the Secretary-General. Such talks provide the best prospects of working towards a negotiated settlement. We see no alternative to that framework. 24. Outsiders may be able to assist the parties in the search for a resumption of meaningful negotiations. My Government has always said it is willing to help. But the parties themselves have the prime responsibility. It is they who will live with the solution. It is they who must negotiate it. 25. It is for this reason that the British Government believes that any resolution which may be adopted by the Assembly should havf as its primary objective the resump- tion of intercornmunal talks. The conditions under which a genuine negotiation can be undertaken must be established and that without delay.

The United Nations has been seized of the question of Cyprus, in one aspect or another, since 1963, A United Nations peace-keeping force has been stationed in Cyprus since 1964. Above all, the situation in Cyprus has particularly preoccupied the United Nations since the grave events of 1974, which led to the adoption by the Genera! Assembly of resolution 3212 (XXIX), universally acclaimed as the only realistic ,basis for a durable and just solution. 27. The continued absence of a durable and just solution to the problem of Cyprus is a matter of grave concern to the Government and people of Zambia. The status quo in that country, particularly the presence of thousands of foreign armed forces and, indeed, the continued inter- ference by outside Powers in the internal affairs of Cyprus, is totally unacceptable to us. It is for this reason that we have constantly and consistently advocated genuine efforts 28. Cyprus is a small and defenceless non-aligned country. Its people, as a whole, are yearning for peace and security. They have known war and misery for far too long. Unjustified and competing foreign interests and acts of interference in their internal affairs have long violated and continue seriously to threaten the sacred principles of the sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and non- alignment of Cyprus. 29. I wish to repeat the demand of my Government that all States fully and strictly respect the sovereignty, inde- pendence, territorial integrity and non-alignment ef Cyprus. These are sacred principles which must not fmd themselves in jeopardy. The erosion of these principles in the case 'of Cyprus would hi.'1e serious consequences for many other small, medium-sized and weak States, particularly those which have chosen non-alignment as a policy. 30. It is iplperative and urgent that all foreign armed forces be withdrawn immediately and unconditionally from Cyprus. Indeed, ail foreign interference in the internal affairs of Cyprus, in whatever form or manifestation and on whatever pretext, must cease. My Government is convinced that, left alone, the people of Cyprus can coexist peacefully and harmoniously. We do not attach any-importance to, and indeed we consider irrelevant, their origin within the context of nationality. If such affmities were to be tolerated and encouraged, many modem nation-States could not surVive. 31. Our indefatigable Secretary-General, Mr. Kurt Wald- heim, has spared no effort in the search for a just and durable solution to the problem of Cyprus. On behalf of my delegation, I take this opportunity to applaud his efforts and to encourage him to continue them, notwith- standing the frustrations inherent in his task. 32. UNFICYP has been in Cyprus for 14 years now. It has obviously fulfilled an important duty and it deserves our commendation. However, let me stress in th1s regard that in the view of my Government peace-keeping operations, important as they are, must never be a substitute for real and permanent solutions to problems. They must, in reality, be temporary. 33. I hope the day will soon come when the people of Cyprus will enjoy peace, genuine security and tranquillity. I take this opportunity to renew to the Government and people of Cyprus the assurance of the unflinching solidarity of the Government and people of Zambia.

When the Sierra Leone delegation made a statement on this question at about the same time last yeai,6 we had hoped-optimists 6 Ibid•• 63rd meeting, paras. 126-130. 35. We ask ourselves, What has gone wrong; what is impeding progress towards a just ?eace? Is it the continued presence of a large number of foreign troops in the territory that is acting as an unseen hand, consequently thwarting efforts to find a peaceful solution through inte:-communal talks? 36. While the Sierra Leone delegation dop,s not wish to pontificate, it is necessary to remind ourselves briefly of the basic facts that led to the crisis in Cyprus, which this Assembly has been trying to ~efuse for the past five years. 37. In July 1974, with the aid of about 30,000 troops, Turkey invaded Cyprus and proceeded to occupy 40 per cent of the island. International peace and security were thereby endangered. The Security Council was seized of the matter and passed several resolutions calling for a cease-fire. 38. We have noted the reasons given by Turkey for the invasion. However, the fact is that, as a result of its having occupied 40 per cent of Cyprus, over 180,000 Greek Cypriots had been made refugees by the time a cease·fire came into effect. Those unfortunate people were forced to leave their homes in the north and to settle in the south. Some Turkish Cypriots also left their homes in the south for the north. Needless to say, there was considerable hardship and distress, which invariably plague refugees on both sides as a result of their displacement. 39. Reports show that the Greek Cypriots are the main victims. It is therefore a matter of great regret that, nearly five years ,after the invasion, the refugee problem has not been adequately and'satisfactorily solved. My delegation is of the opinion that it is not enough merely to say that these refugees have been resettled and rehabilitated in areas outside their own homes, particularly where they were given no choice in the matter but were peremptorily compelled by force of arms to vacat~ their property. We feel that, in compliance with the resolutions of this Assembly, all refugees Should be given a choice whether or not to return to their homes, and when they choose not to they should be adequately compensated by those who have displaced them. It has been said that: "The call for the return of all displaced people to their former homes would clearly contradict the population exchange agreement reached at Vienna and utterly destroy the foundation of the agreement for a bizonal federation." 7 See document A/32/282. 41. It is instructive to note from the Secretary·General's report that, follOWing the Vienna a£feement, only 366 out of 180,000 Greek Cypriots displaced were able to return to the north; 145 towns and villages in the north were vacated by Greek Cypriots [see A/33/348, para. 16J. Surely in the face of these facts the need, in equity, for fair compensa- tion cannot be over-emphasized. 42. Despite the persisting areas of disagreement between the two communities, we are a little heartened by that part of the Secretary·General's report in which he states that, from his consultations and those of his Special Repre· sentative, a significant measure of common ground between the opposing camps has surfaced [ibid., pa;'Q. 21J. 43. Since ooth sides now envisage the withdrawal of Turkish troops and the exclusion of the armed personnel of both sides from Varosha, the establishment of a United Nations supervised interim administration and the resettle· ment of the Greek Cypriot population in an area to be renegotiated, it ought not to be difficult, given goodwill on both sides, for those wishes to be realized. 44. The Sierra Leone delegation hopes that when both sides get down to serious and meaningful talks they will bear in mind resolutions 31/12 and 32/15 of tbis Assembly which call fpr respect for "the sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and non·alignment" of tne island. We wish also to refer to those paragraphs of the relevant resolutions which call for the removal of all foreign troops from Cyprus and recommend that the Security Council "adopt all practical means to promote the effective implementation of its relevant resolutions Lq all their aspects". 45. We urge ~lte implementation of all relevant resolutions on the matter and we feel that the intercommunal negotiating process can be reactivated on the basis of the Makariog.Denkta~ guidelines of 12 February 1977. 46. Finally, my delegation wishes to take this opportunity of commending the good work being done by UNFICYP. In supervising the cease·fire and providing security for civilians in the buffer zone, UNFICVP has once again demonstrated its efficiency and great discipline, to the extent that there is comparative peace on all fronts. We are most appreciative of the untiting efforts of our indefatigable Secretary· General and his able Special Representative in trying to bring about a lasting peace in the area. Indeed, the Sierra Leone delegation continues to be optimistic. We hope that by this time next year the Greek and Turkish Cypriot negotiators will have arrived at consensus ad idem, and that this seemingly perennial problem will have been solved to the satisfaction of all the parties and of this Assembly. 48. The fact that a solution to the problem is still being postponed in open defiance of resohltions adopted by the United Nations, despite the efforts and the good offices of the Secretary·General to cany cut the mandate of the General Assembly, prompts us to reiterate om belief that the political will of States must be shown in specific acts, and we sincerely hope that a just and viable solution to the problem will be found as soon as possible. 49. During the life of our Organization we have witnessed and at times contributed to the most important process of decolonization in the history of mankind. In this process we have witnessed the efforts of various States and regions to define their own personalities. Each has tried to fmd by introspection the way to express itself. Compliance with the principle of non·intervention and its corollary, self- determination, have made it possible for the international community to take the form that it has today. 50. The history of Cyprus, ever since the mythological birth of Venus-or even before that, if we are to believe today's anthropologists-has always been rich in events. The most recent phase, that occurring now and closely involving the United Nations, is no exception. Ever since the British came to our Organization and with its sanction, sought to rid itself peacefully of its former empire, the case of Cyprus as a colony or as an independent State has been on our agenda. It is not surprising, therefore, that we have heard many statements on the subject that show great familiarity with the issues and that have tried to anticipate solutions based on precedent. Mexico will not follow that line, although it is a perfectly valid one. Political events change; although their twists and turns can be charted, each one has its own special features. The Cyprus of today, 1978, is quite different from that Cyprus which sought inde· pendence under Archbishop Makarios, or the Cyprus which that eminent statesman sought to govern within the rigid framework of the Zurich agreements, ) 51. Solutions must of necessity relate to a Republic which has been independent and which sees its national integrity endangered. 52. We believe that that is the focal point of the issue at present before the General Assembly. I am speaking, of course, of the occupation of a good part of the island by ilie military forces of a neighbouring country. Those forces remain in the territory they conquered and they are taking advantage of their de facto possession to change the political status of Cyprus, denying to the majority of the . Cypriot population a good many of the rights recognized in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. 54. There is no reason why the various resolutions that the General Assembly and the Security Council have adopted with that end in view should not be implemented im- mediately. There are ample safeguards and guarantees that can be given to the Turkish Cypriots. After all, there is UNFICYP. Would not that Force be put to better ure if. it were to guarantee the human rights of the minority rather than to confront the troops of a Member State? 55. We believe that the withdrawal of Turkish troops is an initial and indispensable step if peace and tranquillity is to return to Cyprus. But because as it is a complex matter, which goes very deep, we believe that that is only the first step that needs to be taken. 56. Once that step is taken, negotiations among the parties can and must be renewed. I say "renewed", because recently we have witnessed a dialogue of the deaf. The representative of Malta yesterday [47th meetingJ reminded us of the many communications which had been exchanged among the parties, all fIlled with emotion, all qUite consistent, put not one offering any hope for the beginning of an understanding. 57. Operative paragraph 4 of draft resolution A/33/L.7 states in effect that the Secretary-General should be asked to continue to provide his good offices for the negotiations between the representatives of the two communities. Let me lake this opportunity to reaffirm the Government of Mexico's great esteem for the Secretary-General in his patient and devoted efforts in relation to the problem of Cyprus. Certainly this has been one of the more brilliant chapters of his patient and long diplomatic career. We should also like to say that we would be very pleased if Mr. Galindo PoW wp,re to continue in his difficult task of representing the ~~cretary-General, carrying on with the same skill as his predecessors and continuing to be a source of great pride to the Latin Americans whom he represents. 58. To revert to the negotiations among the parties, we believe that they might be carried out more successfully if the tenns of reference were to be changed. Judging from the communications that have been exchanged and the debate which took place yesterday in the Special Political Com- mittee, emotions are running very high and there seems to be no room for rationality. Perhaps Mr. Galindo Pohl might be asked to act as mediator, which might make it possible to bring the negotiations out of their deadlock. Or, if the parties prefer, why should they not negotiate through representatives of friendly States? In civil cases, when a tribunal deems it appropriate to use conciliation, con- ciliatory efforts very often take place through the lawyers of the parties or with their assistance., That procedure might also yield fruitful results in the case of Cyprus. 59. Furthermore, we must not disregard the geographical situation of the island, to which the represel'tative of Bulgaria referred quite rightly yesterday [46th meetingJ. These suggestions are procedural, but they will bear fruit "... When we consider The importancy of Cyprus to the Turk ... We must not think the Turk is so unskilful To leave that lastest which concerns him ftrst ...:'. [Othella, Act I, scene 3.J Any solution of the Cyprus problem must be based on that fact which the English bard divined and to that one could add today some element of assurance against any repetition of the events which led to military occupation. 60. I should like, albeit briefly, to recall how Cyprus achieved its independence. The colonial Power, having been vanquished and expelled, contrived none the less by various ruses to remain in Cypriot territory. Do not these con- cessions, which were made in the Zurich agreements, belong to the past? Do those agreements, which sapped the life-blood of a nation, have any meaning for the two parties to the controversy? Have they helped in any way to avert violence or to protect the Cypriots, whatever their origin? That is why we consider operative paragraph 3 of the draft resolution so much to the point, and particularly applicable to the force's of the former metropolitan Power. Once that is implemented, perhaps true negotiations could take place, because once the fears of the closest nation have been allayed, it may be possible to think in terms of how to protect the human rights of the minority on the island, and then that minority could be given guarantees which in other cases have made possible the independent development of minorities, without affecting the sovereignty of the coun· try. 61. Another question considered in draft resolution A/33/L.7, which has been an element ;!l earlier resolutions, concerns the right of the refugees freely to return to t..'teir homes. Here we wish to say that we will support any measures taken in this connexion which would help to lessen the suffering of the people of Cyprus. 62. Those are some of the ideas which, in the view of my delegation, may help us in restoring happier times to Cyprus. The continued presence or' UNFICYP has never been considered as anything but a temporary measure, and its perpetuation, rather than alleviating the suffering, can only aggravate the situation. It is up to the General Assembly to prevent that from happening in Cyprus. There is still time today, but not very much~

My delegation is participating in this debate on the question of Cyprus with deep feelings of disappointment and concern at the prevailing atmosphere of stagnation and the lack ofany real progress towards a settlement of the question. From both the political and humanitarian perspectives, the situation in Cyprus presents issues to which the international community cannot afford to become indifferent. And as we note the lack of progress towards a solution of the problem, we should recognize the need to approach this question with a sense of urgency and with the will to persevere in seeking an early solution. There are great dangers in the prolongation of the crisis. In "The situation in Cyprus is rapidly becoming a model of the failure of the intemational community to translate its decisions into positive action. Renewed efforts at meaningful dialogue are urgently required if the lines drawn within the country are not to become fIxed in a permanent form." [15th meeting, para. 400.j 64. We draw little comfort from the present situation. The resolutions of the United Nations on the subject are still to be implemented, and foreign occupation of the island continues. The report of the Secretary-General [A/33/348j indicates clearly that there has been little or no change in the situation and that the intercommunal negotiating process remains at a standstill. This is the case despite the efforts of the Secretary-General, who has exercised patience and skill in seeking to advance such negotiations. Although great hopes were aroused by the guidelines worked out in February 1977, we are still at a poinl: where a real breakthrough;-is~'lftede~ to get the negotiations under way towards a just and pea~eful settlement of the question. All options should be expl9f~d to assist this process. 65. My delegation believes that a start could be made if the gritwances and antagonisms of the past could be laid aside. This might not be easy, but it might be the only way to reverse the trend towards confrontation, and to create an atmosphere conducive to constructive negotiations and arrangements for harmony and peace in Cyprus. 66. Another major contribution would be the imple- mentation of United Nations resolutions on aspects other than those dealing directly with intercommunal talks. These resolutions provide a valid framework for a just settlement of the political and humanitarian aspects of the question. I refer in particular to General Assembly resolu- tion 3212 (XXIX), which was adopted unanimously. That resolution called for respect for the sovereignty, inde- pendence, territorial integrity and non-alignment of Cyprus; it urged the speedy withdrawal of all foreign armed forces and foreign military presence from Cyprus and the cessa- tion of all foreign interference. It also called for measures to enable all refugees to return to their homes in safety and commended negotiations between the two communities with a view to reaching a mutually acceptable political settlement. Despite the unanimity of the world community in accepting that resolution, no aspect of it has been implemented. Foreign forces still remaiIJ in the island, and it faces the prospect of de facto partition, while the tragic situation of the refugees remains. 67. On the oilier hand, we are happy to see from the Secretary-General's report that in spite of the lack of progress and largely as a result of the activities of UNFICVP, as well as the l:o-operation of the parties, the situation remains quiet. This does not, of course, mean that the current situation is a satisfactory one, but at least the restraint exercised has kept the problem within existing proportions. We are also encouraged by the Secretary- General's assessment that the positions of the parties are not as far apart as they might appear, and that a significant measure of common ground exists [see A/33/348, 68. In the meantime, it is essential for the development of mutual trust and understanding that neither side should resort to any unilateral action which might upset the present situation. The exercise of such restraint would constitute a positive move towards negotiations. 69. At the same time, it is important for the United Nations to ensure that the sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and non-alignment of Cyprus are re- spected. These are compromised as long as there is foreign occupation of the island. My country, like Cyprus, is a small non-aligned country. It is important and would be reassuring to us that this Organization ~ould be able to provide protection for the sovereign independence of all small States. If for this reason alone, the United Nations should not appear to be impotent on this question.

I am speaking in this Assembly on behalf of my country, Costa Rica, a small country with modest resources-a fact which puts it in the category of a developing country; that means that we must devote all our efforts to material and moral progress and that we cannot spend any of our budget on the acquisition of weapons of war. 71. ~n order to live in peace-to which we aspire not only for ourselves but for the whole world-we have taken part with devotion and loyalty in the activities of international organizations, on the basis of their charters in which are enshrined the great principles of mankind so that there might be peace with justice. In this same Assembly, the President of the Republic of Costa Rica, Mr.Rodrigo Carazo, launched the idea of establishing a university for peace [11th meeting, para. 106j where mankind could be taught that in order to deserve peace it is necessary to learn to live in peace through the study of human reason and feeling which make for the justice that can bring about peace. 72. The United Nations Charter contains the essence of the right of all peoples to respect in dignity and human rights. The United Nations was not established to protect the great Powers, which with the enormous forces at their disposal can do that themselves, but to protect the rights of the small and unarmed peoples through law, which is justice. The weaker peoples need justice, otherwise, as the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mr. Waldheim, said in his report of 1978, "The practical result [would be] that some small States [would] no longer turn to the United Nations as the protector of their sovereign rights."[See A/33/1, sect. H.] 73. In this critical period for Cyprus-a small country like ours, which is suffering the aftermath of brutal aggression 74. We wish to point out that not only the small and unarmed peoples like mine are watching the United Natians to see what protection will be afforded to Cyprus but also the powerful, the violators of human rights-rights whose protection His Holiness Pope John Paul II has just charac- terized as "the great effort of our time"-are watching to see how rights and justice will be ensured for the unprotected peoples of the world which have placed all their hopes in their enforcement by the United Nations. 75. It is time that the great and the small should know what they can rely on when truth and justice are undermined. That is why Costa Rica has become a sponsor of draft resolutions A/33/L.7 and Add. 1, which stresses the need for resolution 3212 (XXIX) and other resolutions strengthening the independence and integrity of Cyprus with peace and justice to be implemented without delay. • Mr. Lievano (Colombia) resumed the Ozair.

The consideration of the question of Cyprus at this session marks another stage in the long trials of the noble people of Cyprus. The Assembly and the Security Council are behindhand in fulfilling their duty to put an end to the foreign military occupation and the continued violation of human rights of the civilian population and of the sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and non-alignment of the Republic of Cyprus. 77. Rather than regretting any failure to abide by the United Nations resolutions on Cyprus, the primary purpose of this Assembly must be to concentrate on the adoption of effective measures so that the aggressor country, that nation which has transgrassed the provisions of the Charter, that State which has disregarded the will of the inter- national community, will be compelled to put an end to its illegal occupation of the island and fully abide by the resolutions of the Assembly and the Security Council, since those resolutions unquestionably contain the necessary elements for the re-establishment of peace and under- standing both within the Cypriot nation and the eastern Mediterranean region. 78. After careful consideration of the report of the Secretary-General on the question of Cyprus [A/33/348J and the report of the Special Pol1tical Committee [A/33/ 361J. the delegation of Panama agrees to some extent with the conclusion reached by Mr. Waldheim to the effect that the situation has evolved little since his report to the General Assembly at the thirty-second session was circu- lated.lo Indeed, as the Secretary-General put it, on the one hand, "the intercommunal negotiating process remains at a 10 Document A/32/282. 79. To put it in language somewhat less diplomatic than that used by the Secretary-General, all this means that not only has the situation worsened in various respects but that the United Nations resolutions mentioned in his report have not been implemented, in spite of the Secretary-General's efforts, as a result of the stubbornness, disrespect and open defiance of the Turkish occupying forces and the Govern- ment of Ankara, which is maintaining its military forces in the Republic of Cyprus in open defiance of the Charter, the General Assembly, the Security Council, international morality, world public opinion and the principles of international law, which must guide relations of friendship and co-operation among nations. 80. In the face of this discouraging situation, Panama, like other countries, has decided to become a sponsor of draft resolution A/33/L.7 and Add.l-the result of the praise- worthy efforts of the delegations of Algeria, Guyana, India, Mali, Sri Lanka and Yugoslavia among others-which funda- mentally expresses the full suyport of this Assembly for the sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and non- alignment of the Republic of Cyprus; demands the effective and immediate implementation of the resolutions on the question adopted by the Assembly and the Security Council; demands the immediate withdrawal of all foreign armed forces; calls for respect of the human rights of all Cypriots and for the resumption of the intercommunal negotiations; and reaffirms its decision that the Secretary- General continue to provide his good offices. 81. In this connexion we carmot fail to express the great appreciation of the international community of the inde- fatigable efforts of the Secretary-General, Mr. Kurt Wald- heim, and his team of associates, headed by Mr. Reinaldo Galindo Pohl, an eminent Latin American statesman and jurist, aimed at bringing about a settlement of the problem of Cyprus, through his good offices, on the basis that only one State, Cyprus, must exercise effective sovereignty throughout the entire Cypriot national territory, without any limitations of any kind, except perhaps limitations imposed by respect for the interests, aspirations and needs of the two communities inhabiting the island. 82. In the face of a new form of Turkish colonialism represented by its illegal military occupation of the island, my country has insisted at various international gather- ings-and I repeat it here-that any attempt by Turkey to intervene in the internal affairs of the Republic of Cyprus is inadmissible. General Assembly resolution 1514 (XV) is clear and categorical. Paragraph 6 of that resolution states: "Any attempt aimed at the partial or total disruption of the nati9nal unity and the territorial integrity of a country is incompatible with the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations." 83. In assessing the situation in Cyprus, we fmd the continued occupation of 40 per cent of the national territory of that State Member of the United Nations and member of the non-aligned community by the armed fQrces of another Member State of this Organization. We ask, is 84. The delegation of Panama calls on the General Assembly to support every part of draft resolution A/33/L.7, which inter alia demands the immediate and effective implementation of resolution 3212 (XXIX), which was adopted unanimously by the General Assembly with the c.oncurring. vo~e .of Turkey, and endorsed b~ the Se~u!lty Council In Its resolution 365 (1974). In our opmlOn, the text of the draft resolution sets out the minimal fattors which must be taken into account in order to normalize the situation in Cyprus and to bring back peace and calm to that widely admired and respected pee•...;. 85. The basic elements of the draft resolution appear in the various General Assembly and Security Council resolu- tions which form a kind of background to it. Those elements are the follOWing: first, the cessation of the military occupation of the island of Cyprus by the Turkish anny; secondly, the rejection of any attempt to partition the island or to create a fictitious so-called Turco-Cypriot State whose legal validity has been discounted by the United Nations; thirdly, the early withdrawal of all foreign armed forces, military presence and foreign personnel from Cyprus; fourthly, the cessation of foreign interference in the internal affairs of the Republic of Cyprus; fifthly, respect for the constitutional system of the Republic of Cyprus, which is the concern of the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities alone; sixthly, the return of a1l displaced persons to their homes and a full settlement of the refugee problem-a goal which has not yet been achieved; seventhly, the rejection of unilateral action by the parties in contravention of resolution 3212 (XXIX), in- cluding any such artificial scheme as thuse put forward to change the demographic structure of Cyprus. All attempts to change the social, demographic or political structure of certain sectors, such as Varosha and Famagusta, have been vigorously denounced by the Government of Cyprus in the Security Council and in this Assembly. The Security Council accepted the validity of the complaint of Cyprus in 1977. The eighth element is support for the mission of good offices assigned by the G~neral Assembly and th~ Security Council to the Secretary-General. Within the general frame- work of the resolutions adopted by .those bodies, the Secretary-General has an obligaC)!!-~d we should like to stress this point-to see to it that negotiations between the representatives of the Greek Cypriot community and the Turkish Cypriot community are resumed in a significant and constructive manner in an effort to achieve the objectives of a just and lasting peace in the island. 86. The truth is that the general situation in the island is not encouraging, in spite of the efforts made by its legitimate Government and the will, so often reaffirmed, of the United Nations. We cannot consider constitutional proposals such as the one made by the Turkish Cypriot community and presented to the Secretary-General on 13 87.. There can be no qu~~tion of social justiCt' in a society while a few members suffer poverty and indignity; similarly in the great community of nations there can be no effective peace, although the guns may fa,ll silent, while a Govern- ment and a people see their most essential rights and aspirations spurned and "violated. 88. Panama is a sponsor of the draft resolution. If it were adopted the United Nations would be expressing the desire and the will of the overwhelming majority of the countries of the world; that desire and will can be summed up in a few words: this intolerable situation has lasted long enough.

Having taken note of the report of the Secretary-General [A/33/348] we must express our appreciation ofhis good offices and the efforts he has made to reconcile the parties to the conflict. We commend his efforts to bring about a resumption of negotiations between the representatives of the Turkish Cypriot community anli t?e Greek Cypriot commUiIlity and to ensure the applica- tion of General Assembly and Security Council resolutions in order to reach a peaceful and just solution of the problem of Cyprus, based on the interests of the two co~munities and guaranteeing the independence, sov- ereIgnty, territorial integrity and non-aligned status of Cyprus. 90. The question of Cyprus is being discussed for the fifth consecutive year, notwithstanding the many resolutions that have been adopted since 1974, by the General Assembly-beginning with resolution 3212 (XXIX), which was adopted unanimously and endorsed by the Security Council in its resolution 365 (1974)-as a valid framework within which to settle the Cyprus question. Those resolu- tions have still not been implemented, as mentioned in the Secretary-General's report, in which he says: . "The above account of developments ... relating to the implementation of the resolutions of the General As- sembly makes it evident that, despite intense diplomatic activity, the situation has evolved little .... Resolutions 3212 (XXIX), 3395 (XXX), 31/12 and 32/15 have yet to 91. 11\ Cypr\lS a state of tension and disquiet still prevails, and the new dimensions of the tragic conflict have led to a \\1'rj~el\il\g of the conditions of life and welfare of tens of thousands of Cypriots, both indiVidually and collectively, and have cxal.'erbated the serious problem of refugees facing hoth \''Onmmnities. This prompts us to stress the need for greater international efforts to achieve a solution llIld to impel the two communities, the parties directly concerned, $peedily to resume negotiations under the ll.cgis of the Scctctary·Gcneral of the United Nations along the lines accepted by the two communities. Such negotiatiotls must take place with full l"cspect t<'lr the independence, territorial intc~rtty and non-aligned status of Cyprus. '<)2. Wc must establish an atmosphere of mutual trust llIld eliminate the suspicion that exists between the two tonmmnities in order to recreate the fraternity, sympathy .and solidarity that reigned fonnerly in Cyprus. That roe\isten~ must be achieved and must take precedence over any other C<ltlsiderations. In the case of national or international 'Chtlties we cannot accept any classification of the people.s \m .a religious, community or spititual basis, bet.au$C that leads to fanaticism and dissension. History has pro'\>ed that the di\lision of national political entities for religious or racial reasons is unacceptable to the inter- national commmlity. 9.3. the pr<.)blem of Cypms has assumed an important place in United Nations debates and in debates outside the lJnirea NUi~ns .also. The Fifth Conference of Heads of Sta:te O! Go'>emn'lent of Non-Aligned Countries, meeting in (\)lombo in 1976- 3l\d the Conference of Ministers for Foreign Afftin; of Non-Aligned Countries, meeting in Belgr.ade tMs year, cstablished a valid b~sis for a just 'iX')utical solution to the problem of Cyprus llIld supported t~ ~'Ump'tionofmeaningful and constru~ttvenegotiations ktween t11e representatives of the two communities under the ~gis of the UnitiXi NuiollS and within the framework <!if the resolutions ·cf the General Assembly and the Security '<..~uncil. '94_ The geognphica.1 situation of Cyprus., near the coast of & Syrim AI'3.b Republic, ~Xplaills the importance Syria in ~:and the Middle &st countries in general attach to tlm matter :aoo our 'COncern at the worsening of the '5ituatioo in Cyprus :and the debyin the solution of the pn..~~m_1be mitibIy b:ases in Cyprus have more than once been ~.d to oommit :aggression against the Arab world. ll:Ul1 \\\'35 ttJbe QSe in 1956 :md 1967. The Arab people can ~ fN'get me position ~red by Cyprus 3.1ld its people ~ ~' r~ to .allow tiIDse bases to continue to be :men tt'C !hmnd:l ~ or :aggression 3g3.inst the Arab world. Thi5 .m.JW.S ~ ~y me e~1:ent to which the security of the An.b .rormirie!i is tied to ithe security of Cyprus, its ~iia1 iintegrity and lIhe maintenance of its non-aligned 'Ilt1m5.. '95~ ~. rolllrtly 'SUpports the struggle of the people of i('~JlrI1sto conso1ifurte their mrlependence, territorial integ-

The question of Cyprus is once again before the General Assembly. Unfortunately, despite the efforts made within the United Nations, including the negotiations held by the Secretary-General with both sides and intensive diplomatic activities outside the world Organization, this problem is no nearer a solution. 97. The Secretary-General's report describes clearly and objectively the developments of the past year and the outcome of his contacts with the representatives of the parties concerned. According to the Secretary.General: "... despite intensive diplomatic activity, the situation has evolved little since the circulation of my report to the Assembly at its thirty-second session .... The inteicom- munal negotiating process remains at a standstill for the time being and. .. there has been little forward move- ment with regard to the substantive aspects of the resolutions." [A/33/348, para. 19./ 98. Notwithstanding that, my delegation would like to commend the initiative taken this year by the Turkish Cypriot commWlity in order to accelerate the process of negotiations. That initiative had the full support and encouragement of the Turkish Government. The proposals put forward by the Turkish Cypriot community covered both the territorial and the constitutional aspects of the problem llIld provided a viable basis for negotiations. They have been characterized by the Secretary-General as "con- crete and substlllltial".12 99. We can take he~rt from the Secretary·General's obser- vation that "... the substantive positions of the parties are in .:ertain a)pects not as far ap~rt as they may appear to be at nrst glance. For example, both sides have expressed themselves as being in favour of an eventual withdrawal of foreign troops; the Greek Cypriots want this to happen at an early stage of the process, while the Turkish Cypriots envisage it at a later or fmal stage, as part of a comprehensive settlement" {A/33/348, para. 20J. 12 Ibid.. document 5/12723, para. 52. 100. Pakistan has consistently taken the position that the resolution of the Cyprus problem can be brought about through negotiations between the two communities on the basis of equity. This approach has been endorsed by all the relevant United Nations resolutions and by the Geneva Declaration of 30 July 1974,13 as well as by the guidelines agreed upon in February 1977 between the late Archbishop Makarios and Mr. Denkta§ with the participation of Secre- tary-General Waldheim. These guidelines, as we all know, include the acceptance of the principle of an independent, non-aligned, bicommunal and federal republic of Cyprus. Pakistan remains firmly committed to a settlement that would ensure to both communities, within this framework, the exercise of their fundamental rights and enable them to live side by side in peace and harmony. 101. A settlement of the Cyprus question, to be just and durable, must pe comprehensive. The withdrawal of foreign troops from the island is but one element of such a settlement. We welcome, as a sign of goodwill, the steady reduction of its troops on the island by Turkey, and particularly Turkey's readiness, expressed by its Foreign Minister in his statement before this Assembly on 3 Octo- ber 1978, to withdraw "... all its armed forces from the island, with the exception of those that will be mutually agreed upon by the parties concerned when a solution to the problem is found." [19th meeting, para. 61.J This offer was restated this morning by the Ambassador of Turkey, when he addressed the General Assembly. 102. The patient and persistent efforts made by our Secretary-Genera! and his Special Representative in Cyprus during the past year to bridge the differences between the two communities and to evolve a mutually acceptable settlement, have been truly commendable. Pakistan hopes that Secretary-General Waldheim will persevere in these efforts which continue to offer a ray of hope in a situation which is otherwise intensely difficult. 103. My delegation would also like to take this oppor- tunity to commend UNFICYP for its part in maintaining tranquillity in the island. Pakistan favours the continuation of the mandate of UNFICYP until such time as it is considered unnecessary by the Secretary-General. Its ex- istence should not however become a substitute for efforts to reach a just and peaceful solution of the problem. 104. It remains our hope that the deliberations of this Assembly will assist in the solution of the Cyprus problem rather than entrench positions which, we all know, are strongly held, or arouse emotions that can only retard progress towards the reconciliation between the two com- munities which is indispensable for a resolution of the Cyprus question. This can only be done by the adoption of 13 Ibid., Twenty-ninth Year, Supplement for July, Aul:ust and September 1974, document 8/11398.

We have heard the last speaker in the debate. I shall now call on representatives who wish to explain their votes before the vote.

I would like to explain the vote of my delegation on draft resolution A/33/L.7. The draft resolution was presented this morning on beha~f of a group of six countries. This group, although it had consultations with the representatives of the Turkish and Greek communities of Cyprus, came forward at the end with a draft resolution which is overwhelmingly inspired only by the viewpoints of one of the parties. That draft resolution does not take into consideration the realistic approach to the problem of the other party, nor is it capable of reflecting significant positive developments that have taken place in the search for a mutually acceptable negotiated settlement. It is the long-established view of the Turkish Government that a comprehensive solution of the Cyprus problem can be achieved only through inter- communal talks and that all the aspects of the problem fall within the purview of the negotiations between the two communities based on the guidelines agreements reached between Mr. Denkta§ and the late Archbishop Makarios on 12 February 1977. 108. We see no possibility of settling any element of the problem outside the negotiating process through other means or procedures. The draft resolution before us is not compatible with this concept. Moreover, the draft resolu- tion, more specifically its operative paragraph 8, represents a renewed effort to alter the delicately balanced framework of the Security Council's present involvement in the question of Cyprus through peace-keeping and the mission of good offices of the Secretary-General. 109. A resolution which would recommend that the security Council change the course it has followed so far could unavoidably induce the parties to reconsider their attitude towards the Security Council's present involve- ment. It is in the light of these considerations that operative paragraph 8 of the draft resolution, read in conjunction with the third preambular paragraph, which contains a judgement inconsistent with the political realities surround- ing l.Jle Cyprus problem, is clearly unacceptable to the Turkish delegation. munity~ could not participate in the deliberations nn an equitable basis. 111. For the reasons that I have just outlined, my delegation will vote against draft resolution A/33/L.7.

There are some positive elements in the draft resolution before the Assembly today, particularly those calling for the urgent resumption of negotiations in a meaningful and constructive manner under the auspices of the Secretary·General. We strongly support that approach. Nevertheless, my Govern- ment cannot support the draft resolution. Taken as a whole~ this draft will not promote an atmosphere conducive to a resumption of the negotiations which we all hope would lead to a just and lasting settlement on Cyprus. 113. Specifically, operative paragraph 8 is unacceptable. While the situation with respect to Cyprus is serious, we see no useful pUll'ose in turning to the Security Council at this time. Rather, as we have stated earlier in the debate [47th meeting}, we believe that enhancing the prospects for sustained and productive intercommunal negotiations should be ~our foremost objective here today. All parties interested in promoting a settlement on Cyprus should nbw concentrate their efforts on encouraging these talks and fostering an atmosphere that will contribute to their success.

If there is to be a separate vote on operative paragraph 8 of the draft resolution, I should like to point out, on behalf of the nine countries members of the European Community, the reasons for our abstention in a separate vote on that parngraph. We consider that the recommendation in that paragrapll is inappropriate. As Mr. von Wechmar explained in our statement yesterday [46th meeting), we are con- vinced that only direct negotiations between the com- munities -concerned can lead to a settlement of the Cyprus issue which would guarantee the territorial integrity, the independence 3lld the sovereignty of the Repuolic of Cyprus. 115. We can fully subscribe to the concluding sentence of the impressive statement made yesterday by the Minister ofState for External Affairs of India, who said: -"All the United Nations can do is to ensure that their fate~·-the communities' fate-"is in their own hands and not in the hands ofothers." [47th meeting, para. 59.} n fi. Mr. ROLU~S {Cyprus}: I know t.~at me-mbers must -already be exhausted after four days of intensive l1eliberations :OD fue -question of my countI)'. "Therefore. I intend to be veIY briefin refuting various gross inaccuracies ;lUld :misrepresentations perpetrated by the Turkish side ~these four days. H.7. First, we have been accused of having been all these years the torturers and the oppressors. We have heard veI)' long-drawn-out yet nnsubstantiated groans and moans 118. Secondly, we have heard that the Turkish army must stay in Cyprus for the purpose of protecting the Turkish Cypriots. Of course we know why the Turkish army is in Cyprus. We know it as clearly as the late President Johnsop of the United States knew it when he wrote to Prime Minister Inonti in June 1964: "The proposed interventioil by Turkey would be for the~purpose of effecting a form of partition of the island, a solution which is specifically excluded by the Treaty of Guarantee". 119. But if we assume for a moment that we are all wrong. then why do not the Turks accept the proposal of President Kyprianou which would give the Turkish Cypriots real security instead of the so-called security afforded by an occupation army? I repeat the proposal of President Kyprianou: "I propose that the Republic of Cyprus be completely demilitarized: ... and that all Cypriots ... be disarmed and that the security of the citizens of Cyprus be the responsibility of a mixed Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot police force under the supervision, guidance and control of a strong international police force of the United Nations for as long as necessary." [22nd meeting, para. 47.) He further proposed the "establishment of a machinery of international supervi:-:')n, through the United Nations, for u'1e protection of the human, civil, political, economic and cultural rights of all citizens of Cyprus within the context of a just solution based on the resolutions of the United Nations. 120. If the genuine concern of Turkey is the safeguarding of the security and the human "rights of the Turkish Cypriots and if the objectives are clear and honest, what is wrong with this solution? 12L My third point refers to the mathematics of the Turkish side. In all countries a minority is called a minority. The Turkish side wants to be an equal partner with the Greek Cypriots. According to Turkish mathematics, 82 per cent equals 18 per cent. Such an equation is, of course, very useful for the rulers in South Africa and Rhodesia. It will help them in their fight against the people of Namibia and Zimbabwe and of South Africa itself, because it shows how minorities may demand much more than what pro- portionally belongs to them. 123. The fourth and most important issue is the question of aggression and the occupation of a part of the territory of Cyprus by Turkish forces. The representative of Turkey this morning [48th meeting] had the incredible audacity to equate those forces with UNFICYP, the presence and functioning of which is duly authorized by the Security Council, with my Government's consent. Low-key and soft language was used to convince Member States that, pro- vided a country invents a good pretext, it may invade another defp,nceless country and occupy and keep under occupation that other country's territory. In our case, the pretext was the restoration of the constitutional order, which was upset by the junta-sponsored coup for only seven days. 124. As I said, soft language was used at first. Then Members were threatened:' if they did not endorse ag- gression, their decisions would be treated with contempt. Mr. Denkta§ said very bluntly that if they were not right and objective, he would be unable to subscribe to the resolution. And when he talks about "right" and "objec- tive" he refers to what he considers as right and objective- and that includes invasion, occupation and all the abomin- able crimes committed against Cyprus. 125. The purpose of the Turkish exercise is to deprive Cyprus of the ·only asset left to it: the solidarity and the support of the Members of the United Nations. The sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Cyp- rus have been grossly violated, but it has their voice, the voice of justice. Cyprus is defenceless. Turkey's army is equal to the whole population of Cyprus, and Turkey's tanks are as many as the toys of our children, but we have the helping hand of the United Nations. Turkey is trying to silence our voice and to amputate our arm of support. 126. Despite our tragedy-and I do not think that there is another Foreign Minister in this Organization who repre- sents a country that is half occupied-we are always willing and anxious to negotiate a solution of our problem, based on justice and reason, not on partition and injustice. . 127. The Turkish representative said that the key question was whether my Government really wants a solution to the Cyprus problem, and he answered that in the negative. The truth is the exact opposite. No one wailts a solution more than my Government, as long as it is a just and viable solution and not one based on partition, disguised or undisguised. Who could possibly believe that the people of Cyprus would want the perpetuation of a situation in which one third of the population of the country are refugees and 40 per cent of its territory is under the occupation of a foreign Power, which systematically tries to create further faits accomplis through the importation of an alien popula- tion? Evidently the Turkish representative is under- estimating the intelligence of his listeners. H~ has referred to the "long-term struggle". No one, least of all my 128. I made it clear in my opening statement [45th meeting], and even Mr. Eralp acknowledged it, that my Government is prepared to support the resumption of the negotiations bet\,~en the two communities provided that such negotiations have meaning and substance. But we will certainly never agree to negotiating the partition of our country. To do so would be wrong, non-viable and would result in upheavals in the near future, and this will have unforeseeable repercussions not only for Cyprus but also for international peace in the whole volatile area where Cyprus is located. 129. I do not intend to reply in detail to the serie~ of misrepresentations and distortions which the representative of Turkey used this morning in an evident attempt to mislead the members of the General Assembly. Many of these have been refuted in the past, and I shall not stoop to answer such false statements as the one attributed to the late President Makarios, which is an outright lie. Such a ~tatement was never made. It has been cateJorically denied m the past, and its fresh repetition by Mr. Eralp certainly does not make it true. . 130. The draft resolution before the Assembly, sponsored by the members of the non-aligrled contact group, under the terms of reference given them by the non-aligned movement and sponsored by so many other countries-to :ill of which we are indeed grateful-expresses the collective will of the international community on the Cyprus prob- lem. In the name of the ideals upon which this Organization was founded, in the name of the principles of the Charter and in the name of justice for a small and defenceless country which has been wronged, I earnestly urge all members of this Assembly to give it their full support. 131. If you will allow me one more minute, Mr. President, I would say this: countries like Turkey should r~ceive a message from this Organization if the world is to survive: they cannot violate laws, divine and human, with impunity; they cannot treat with contempt the decisions of the international community; they cannot use their superior military power to reverse the flow of justice in the world.

I regret to say that at this late stage of the proceedings the rules and regulations of the Assembly have been ridden over roughshod. The long statement just made by the Foreigrl Minister of the Greek Cypriot administration has nothing to do with an explana- tion of vote. It is a reopening of the debate on Cyprus. If it is the wish of the Assembly, we shall reopen the debate but I think that we are past that stage. ' 133. I do not consider myself a direct interlocutor of the Foreign Minister of the Greek Cypriot administration' the real interlocutor is President Denkta§, and it is inequitable that he has not been allowed to come to this rostrum and present his case again, as he presented it so ably in the Special Political Committee. 134. I just want to make two points: first. with regard to the quotatilJn which I read out tnis morning from the late

We have heard the last speaker who wishes to explain his vote before the vote. 136. We shall now vote on the draft resolution entitled "Question of Cyprus" [A/SJ/L. 7and Add1]. 137. A separate vote has been requested on operative paragraph 8. As I hear no objection, we shall vote first on operative paragraph 8. A recorded vote has been requested. In favour: Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Argentina, Ba- hamas, Barbados, Benin, Bhutan, Botswana, Bulgaria, Burma, Burundi, Byelorussian ~oviet Sociali~t Republic, Cape Verd'c, Central African Empire, Chad, Colombia, Comoros, Congo, Costa Rica, Cuba, Cyprus, Czecho- slovakia, Democratic Kampuchea, Democratic Yemen, Ecuador, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gambia, Gernlan Democratic Republic, C'lana, Greece, Guatemala, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Hun- gary, India, Ivory Coast, Jamaica, Kenya, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagas- car, Mali, Malta, Mauritius, Mongolia, Mozambique, Niger, Nigerts, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Pamguay, Peru, Poland, RomaIlia, Rwanda, SllIlloa, Sao Tom~ and Principe, Sierra Leone, Sri Lanka, Swaziland, Syri!lH "Arab Republic, Togo, Trinidad aIld Tobago, Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republi~ Union of Soviet SociaHst Republics, United Republic of C.ameroon, United Republic of TaIlzania, Upper Volta, Venezuela, Viet Nam, Yugoslavia, Zambia. Against: Iran, israel, Morocco, PakistaIl, Saudi Arabia, Turkey. United States of America Abstaining: Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Denmark, Djibouti, Egyp~ Finland, France. Gabon, GennaIly, Federal Republic of, Iceland, Indonesia, IrelaIld, Italy, Japan, JordaIl, Lux- embourg, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritania, Mexico, Nepal, Netherl:mds, New Zealand, Norway, OmaIl, Philip- pines, Portugal, Qatar, Singapore, Spain, Sudan, Suriname, Sweden, ThailaIld, Tun.isia, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern IrelaIld, Uruguay, Yemen. Operative paragraph 8 was adopted by 80 votes to 7, with 48abstentions. 14

We shall now vote on draft resolution Aj':33jL.7 and Add.l as a whole_ A recor~ vote has been requested.

I shall now call on those delegations that wish to explain their vote after the vote. 140. Mr. Ai :::>ERSON (Australia): Australia views the situation in Cyprus no'" simply as an international problem which arises every year on the agenda of the General Assembly, but as a tragic situation for the Cypriot peo?le. Our interest in and perception of the problem have been heightened by the presence of Cypriot, Turkish and Greek settlers in Australia. We have expressed our concern by our participation in UNFICVP and by our contributions. to the relief of displaced persons. Beyond that, of course, we WaIlt to contribute in whatever way we can to the achievement of a just and peaceful solution. 141. A major concern of my delegation is that the discussion of the question of Cyprus~. uld not be allowed to become simply a ritual at successive sessiom of the General Ass'~.mbly. We cannot accept that the two Cypriot commun.ities are not capable of working out a way of living together peacefully in all independent Cyprus. Australia believes that the two communities are capable of doing so 15 The de!egations of the Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guinea, Nicaragua and the Philippines subsequently informed the Secretariat that t'tey had wished to have their votes recorded as having been in favour of the draft resolution. 148. May I once again assure the General Assembly that alj efforts to ensure a settlement of the Cyprus problem in accordance with the fundamental interests of the peopi,;; of Cyprus, of peace and of international co-operation win be supported actively by my country. 142. Our support for the resolution just adopted must be seen in the light of the foregoing. In broad terms, we see the thrust of the resolution as aimed at providing the impetus for the early resumption of negotiations between the two communities. As we see it, a particularly important element is the request to the Secretary-General to continue to provide his good offices for the negotiations between the representatiNes of the two communities. We continue to believe that the Secretary·General has an essential role to play in the conciliation process. At the same time, we abstained in the vote on operative paragraph 8 because we believe that the primary objective at this time must be to bring the two communities together and to see substantive negotiations begin at the earliest possible moment.

The New Zealand delegation regrets that it has been necessary once again to bring the question of Cyprus before the Assembly, and even more that it is again necessary to adopt a resolution ~ling on all parties to respect and implement previous reso- lutions. 150. My delegation did not intervene in the debate, but this does not indicate any lack of concern on our part. New Zealand believes that it is the duty of the United Nations to uphold the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all States. We warmly commend the Secretary-General for his efforts over the past year to give effect to the resolutions of the Assembly on this question.

The Romanian delegation took part in the debate on the question of Cyprus in the General Assembly prompted by a sincere desire, like other delegations, to make a constructive contribution to the efforts to provide for a satisfactory solution of this problem, which for many years now has been a subject of serious concern to the United Nations. 151. It is sad indeed that despite this the Secretary- General has not been able to report any substantial progress since last year. 152. My delegation has consistently maintained that the three main principles set out in resolution 3212 (XXIX) of thJis Assembly-the withdrawal of troops, the return of refugees and the negotiation of a settlement-provide the framework for a just solution to this problem. Imple- mentation of anyone of those steps should not be conditional on progress being made on another. We believe, however, that the key to progress at this point1ies in the resumption of the intercommunal talks. We therefore welcome the continued emphasis given to ti ~ inter- communal talks in the resolution we have adopted. 144. A'" it has done at previous sessions, my delegation reaffirmed in this debate Romania's consistent position of principle concerning the attainment of a just and lasting solution to the Cyprus question. We have always advocated and frequently spoken about a political settlement of the conflict through negotiations between the two Cypriot communities, a settlr-ment based on respect for the inde· pendence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Cyprus, which will also ensure co-operation between the two communities and their progress and economic and social development. 153. Last year we were able to support without reserva- tion resolution 32/15, which in its paragraph 5 recom- mended that the Security Council keep the question of Cyprus under constant review. This year, however, we doubt that in the present circumstances the new language in operative paragraph 8, with all its implications, WQuld contribute usefully to a settlement of the Cyprus problem. For that reason, we abstained in the separate vote taken on that paragraph. We are pleased, however, to maintain our support for the draft resolution as a whole. 145. In the spirit of the close and friendly relations that exist between Romania and the Republic of Cyprus, it is our view that such a settlement will serve the real interests of the people of Cyprus and will have a beneficial influence on the ties of co-operation and friendship among an the peoples in that region wmch is close to us. 146. As I emphasized in my statement yesterday [47th meeting), Romania attaches great importance .to the development of co-operation and good neighbourliness in the relations among the Balkan countries, in order to transform that part of Europe into a zone of peace and friendship. We are ftrmly persuaded that the basis for a political settlement of the question of Cyprus exists and that a just and viable solution of the problem can be found only through negotiations conducted in a spirit of goodwill and good faith ootween the parties concerned.

In its statement yesterday [47th meeting) the . Albaniau delegation once again expressed the viewpoint of its Government concerning the question of Cyprus. We consider it necessary to put an end to the Cyprus crisis without delay, and we regret the absence of progress towards a real and durable solution to the problem. My delegation is of the view that it is for the people ofCyprus, and for them alone, to solve the Cyprus problem of their own free will, without any outside interference, in con- 147. That is why my delegation voted in favour" of the draft resolution, just adopted, which, while reaffirming 156. TIU\t is why the Albanian delegation did not partici· pate in the vote which took pla~ a short time ago on th~ -draft resolution. 157. Mr. A1'tAWEEL (Jordan): I feel it is imperative at tl\e 'Outset 'Of my explanation of my delegation's vote to -empha'Size that Jordan is very much \Xlucerned at the stalen\ate in the negotiations .between the two com· nmnities in Cyprus. TIle continuance of the state of affairs th~t obtains in that ~'(.mntry today can only be detrimental to its tecol\:stt\\dion and developmcl\t. 11\is is itl addition to the t~tt th!t its persistence is a potel\Hat threat to tire ~)'m\tty\s t~al~ ill particular ~nd to the region's in general. 1SS. 30rdan is interested\ therefore, only in any practical a}."'pn.~ch to the l'l'<.'blems of the istal\u. We abstained in the vote 'On the draft resolution be\.'ause \ve do tiot want to endorse any attitude that may prejudice any effort of good 'O'ffk"e-~ \\'hetfter of this w'orld Organization or of any other ~\ to find ~ way out of its tragic situatiol\ for that ~1'ldly \.'O'lrnuy. 159. We $booM like Mso to stress here that MY solution Sho\lld 'be juSt and f3lr, basecl on the S!l\>ereign inde· ~detk."e" 'tenitorlal integrity '\l\d non··alignment of Cyprus. it ~'Uld .also fully l"e\.'Ognize tlteequal rights of the two .wmm\mities cmd of tU the citizens of the Republic of Cyprus. ~ their ~onmlQn interest, fratemity and Wlder· standing. 160.. It is ll\v -Govemment~ ean'leSt hope that the leaders vf that ~""untl.1· Vtill ~~Ie~te their etforts towards .aclUe"ingthose ·cl1erishe'd ~'\3ls. 1~1.. lh. B'b'''KOl''XA. '(},(oro~'O) {mtel'p1'etatiGn from SplmiSk;: Thedli!egatioooi ~'OO \\-ishes to clarify what guided llS :in O\Yd' decision .as to whether or not to \'Ote on themm resolution-on the question of Cyprus. 162. {)rib. with Jl -cleax idea <>f 'What criteria guided our ~.can .\Jm',\r0te be understood. 163. I ~ E::~ fust, to refer to the <lft1cial posltiQn of :M~..nn the .q:uestion set fo..-th by our Fmeign M.inister in irls.aiiDressto£he ~b1;r on 4 Octoberlast "'ibe iK'"-mgrJOE of Marocro hopes in this ronnexioo. -::thaJ!: 1he 'T:mi:iSh .am1 G:~ COU!!!lutrlties in. Cyprus will be .mile :re ~ A just mm lasting solution to thE ED"Iibn 1hromfu ne-.aotiati~ 'Whicl1 wJI t3ke into ac- ~ 'fire .~ ~ and ie2.ltimate mhts {)( th~ nro .annrnWmes Vt'1fuin im independent- non-aligned S-.taR..~[2tJib mee:ting. p!lRL 135.J IM-. . .. lie~ 1IIUSt 1.1lerefore vote in farourof any limrl ~lu:mm ~ at promoting negotiations betvi7een 165. For all those reasons, my delegation voted against operative paragraph 8 of the draft resolution. In our opinion, that parllgraph does not help to create the necessary clillute for negotiations. It prejudges the lack of determination of both communities regarding the settle· ment of the national problem and creates the impression that we wish to keep the problem in the hands of the United Nations. Had it not been for this paragraph, my delegation would have voted in favour of the draft resolution. As it was, we had to abstain in the vote on the draft resolution as a whole as wc were convinced that a vote in favour would not have helped to promote a solution to the problem of Cyprus. ' 166. Finally, from this rostrum I wish earnestly to appeal to both Cypriot cominunities to use their patriotic sense and put an end to the ~'jffering of the Cypriot people and conduct forthright and direct negotiations with a view to bringing about a just and lasting solution to their national problem.

Austria takes a sincere and continuing interest in the development and the future of Cyprus and its conunWlities. We have demonstrated this interest by out participation in the United Nations peace· k-eeping operations on the island. 168. My country's ~ttitude to the question of Cyprus is hased upon its unwavering support for the maintenance of the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of that RepUblic. We are convinced that an independent Cyprus is an indispensable' element of stability in the region. In particular, I should like to stress our interest in the creation of conditions in Cyprus in which .the two communities, on an equal footing, free from interference and in a spirit of co·operation, can enjoy peaceful develop. ment to the benefit of their country. 169. To this end, the two communities will have to O\'ercome the past and join in a co-operative effort which cannot but be beneficial to all par.ties. We again strongly urge the leaders of the two communities to ga l.>ack to the negotiating table and do their best to reach the goals set out in numerous United Nations resolutions. 170. My delegation voted in favour of the draft resolution the General Assembly has just adopted, because we believe that its sponsors were motivated by a desire similar to our own. However, my delegation could not agree with the language used in operative paragraph 8 in connexion with the third preambular paragraph. My delegation therefore abstained in the separate vote taken on operative para- graph 8. Iil our opinion, a durable solution to the question

In our statement at the 48th plenary meeting on the question of Cyprus, the Chinese delegation expounded the the consistent position of (he Chinese Government on this question. The Chinese people cherish profound feelings of friendship for the Cypriot people. We have always main- tained that the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Cyprus must be respected, and we are opposed to super-Power interference in the affairs of Cyprus. We sincerely hope that the two Cypriot communities and the parties directly concerned, taking to heart the fundamental interests of. the Cypriot people and the region as a whole, ~ill do away with super-Power meddling and interference and work for a fair and reasonable settlement of the Cyprus question at an early date by gradually eliminating their differences through patient negotiations on an equal foot- ing and in a spirit of mutual understanding and mutual accommodation. 172. Basing itself on the above position, the Chinese delegation voted for the draft resolution. Operative para-

The resolution that has just been adopted contains some positive and some negative elements. We voted in favour of it, believing that there was a greater number of positive elements than of negative ones. We abstained in the vote on operative paragraph 8 because we do not think that that paragraph in any way facilitates negotiations. 174. We voted in favour of the draft resolution as a whole in order to support the quest for a stable solution taking into account the legitimate interests of the two com· munities. The meeting rose at 6 p.m.