A/34/PV.108 General Assembly

The General Assembly will now take a decision on the recommendations of the Second Committee contained in paragraphs 9 and i0 of its report [A/34/778]. The draft resolution in paragraph 9 was adopted by the Committee without a vote. May I take it that the General Assembly wishes to adopt it also? - The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 34[189).

In paragraph 10 of its report the Second Committee recommends that the General REPORT OF THE SECOND COMMITTEE (A/34/767)

The Assembly will now take a decision on the draft resoultion recommended by the Second Committee in paragraph 11 of its report [A/34/767). The report of the Fifth Committee on the administrative and financial implications of that draft resolution is contained in document A/34/777. The Second Committee adopted the draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the General Assembly wishes to do the same? The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 34/190).

The Assembly will now take a decision on the recommendations of the Second Committee contained in paragraphs 11 and 12 of its report (A/34/635/Add.3). 5. The draft resolution in paragraph 11 is entitled “Follow-up to and implementation of the Mar del Plata Action Plan of the United Nations Water Conference’. The report of the Fifth Committee on the administrative and financial implications of that draft resolution is contained in document A/34/838. The Second Committee adopted that draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the General Assembly wishes to do the same? The draft resolution was adopted (resolution 34/191).

In paragraph 12 of its report. the Second Committee also recommends that the General Assembly should take note of the report of the Secretary-General on the implementation of the Charter of Economic Rights and Duties of States, sub- The recommendation was adopted (decision 34/445). AGENDA ITEM $0 Question of Southern Rhodesia: report of the Special Committee on the Situation with regard to the Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples (concluded)*

I call upon the representative of Madagascar to introduce draft resolution A/34/L.65/ Rev.1.

\ have the privilege of introducing on behalf of its sponsors and of my own delegation, which holds the office of chairman of the African group for the month of December, the draft resolution contained in document A/34/L.65/Rev.1, relating to the question of Southern Rhodesia. 9. Members will recall that the consideration of agenda item 90 had been entrusted to the Fourth Committee, but that it was decided for practical reasons and reasons of expediency to submit the draft resolution directly to the plenary Assembly. 10. Im both its preambular and operative parts, the draft resolution deals with three series of basic questions that are to be found in the decisions and resolutions of the United Nations, the Organization of African Unity [OAU] and the movement of non-aligned countries on the subject of Southern Rhodesia. 11. These questions relate to the duties of the international community with regard to the people of Zimbabwe, the responsibilities of the administering Power and the obligations of the United Nations, in particular those of the Security Council. 12. Thus we reaffirm the right of the people of Zimbabwe to self-determination, freedom and independence, as well as the legitimate nature of their struggle for the enjoyment of that right, in accordance with the provisions of the Charter of the United Nations and the objectives of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples {resolution 1514 (XV}]. 13. We have deemed it appropriate, in accordance with our earlier decisions, to recall that independence should be granted the people of Zimbabwe by applying the principle of ‘tno independence before majority rule’’ and on the basis of free and democratic elections. It is in that context that we request the Special Comsittee on the Situation with regard to the Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples to continue to examine the question of Southern Rhodesia until a just and lasting settlement is achieved. ront in implementing the arrangements resulting from the negotiations which took place within the framework of the Rhodesia Constitutional Conference ai Lancaster House,’ and which we regard as a single whole. We note that those negotiations could not, in the final analysis, have taken place or produced a result if the Patriotic Front, during its struggle, had not affirmed its determination to win back, on behalf of the people of Zimbabwe and by using all means available to it, the exercise of that people’s recognized inalienable rights. 15. As far as the responsibilities of the administering Power are concerned, we stress two points in particular: first, the action to be undertaken to ensure the immediate and complete withdrawal of the South African forces stationed in Southern Rhodesia and of the mercenaries, whose intervention and presence we condemn; secondly, the measures to be taken in order that the Lancaster House agreements, which South Africa threatens to frustrate, may be fully applied in good faith. 16. The sponsors also recall the position adopted by the African group on the question of sanctions. That position was made known to the President of the Security Council in a letter dated 14 December 1979.2 We believe that the binding sanctions cannot be lifted except by decision of the Security Council and that any unilateral action in that connexion constitutes a violation of the obligation assumed by Member States under Article 25 of the Charter of the United Nations. That is why we request the Security Council to follow the situation closely until the people of Zimbabwe achieve the two priority objectives of genuine independence and majority rule. 17. Finally, the sponsors draw the attention of the international community to the assistance to be given urgently to the front-line States, which have been victims of aggression on the part of the illegal racist minority régime fur having fulfilled their obligations concerning the people of Zimbabwe and applied the sanctions decreed by the Security Council. 18. Those are the main provisions of draft resolution A/34/L.65/Rev.1. They reaffirm the principles that we regard as essential in any decolonization process undertaken under the aegis of the United Nations; they take into account the evolution of the situation and realities such as the conclusion of the Lancaster House agreements, the determination of the Patriotic Front to face up to situations which have not always been favourable to it and the huge sacrifices made by the people of Zimbabwe and the front-line countries; and they stress the residual but important responsibilities of the Security Council and the General Assembly, at the same time noting the commitments of the administering Power.

I shall call now cn those representatives who wish to explain their votes before the vote.

The New Zealand delegation regrets that the Assembly is being asked to endorse the draft resolution before us today. There is much in it that we can support, but it is by and large a draft resolution that looks to the past, not to the future. It was submitted several hours after the successful outcome of the London conference was announced. Yet it fails to acknowledge the significance of the agreement which you, Mr. President, yesterday described [/06th meeting] as both the culmination of a lengthy struggle and the beginning of the process leading to the free and unfettered exercise by the people of Zimbabwe of their rights to sovereign nationhood. With the country thus moving towards elections, this is clearly no time for the Assembly to be endorsing the Patriotic Front or anyone else as the sole representative of the people of Zimbabwe. For the Assembly to do so would be to deny the agreement which yesterday it welcomed. 22. The draft resolution further suggests that countries which have lifted sanctions have somehow not acted as they should have done. The situation is that with the arrival in Zimbabwe of a British Governor, who received the submission of all the previous authorities there, the rebellion was brought to an end. In those circumstances the continuation of sanctions was neither obligatory nor appropriate. What was called for was the support of the international community; not its continued disapprobation, but rather a demonstration of confidence in the commitment of the negotiating parties to a speedy, just and durable settlement in accordance with the principles for which this Organization stands, and that is what has been achieved. 23. Mr. President, you also emphasized yesterday the seriousness of the unde:takings which the administering Power has assumed, particularly in ensuring strict implementation of the provisions of the agreement now concluded. New Zealand has in a practical and constructive may accepted its obligations as a member of the Commonwealth—and consistent with its United Nations obligations—to play its part in the process leading to the full and legal independence of Zimbabwe. New Zealand cease-fire monitoring units will assist in monitoring the agreed cease-fire, and an election observer team will observe the election process and report on whether the elections are held in free and fair conditions. 24. As I have said, we do not believe that the text now before us takes account of realities. This is a time when the sights and energies of the people of Zimbabwe and those of the international community should be directed towards the future. Regrettably, the draft resolution before us today dwells on the uncertainties of the past. Nor does it reflect the sense of fairness and impartiality that New Zealand, as a Commonwealth country that will be playing its part in implementing the London agreement, will be bound to uphold. 27. Bearing in mind that the draft resolution before us reaffirms the role of the Patriotic Front as the sole legitimate representative of the people of Zimbabwe, puts emphasis on the call for decolonization, true independence and majority rule in Zimbabwe, points to the dangers still threatening the implementation of such true independence and calls for concrete measures to thwart these dangers, we shall vote in favour of draft resolution A/34/L.65/Rev.1. 28. We do so in the awareness that, particularly at this juncture, the liberation struggle of the people of Zimbabwe, under the leadership of the Patriotic Front, needs heightened support and assistance. Those forces that in the past have left nothing untried to make this struggle a failure have not abandoned their intention to force a neo-colonialist solution upon the people of Zimbabwe. It is appropriate, in our view, that the draft resolution emphasizes the responsibilities incumbent upon the United Nations in its support of the struggle of the people of Zimbabwe for self-determination and independence. 29. We commend the relevant concrete proposals contained in operative paragraphs 9, 10 and 12, in particular. We fully agree wit! the assessment given in the letter dated 14 December 1979 from the representative of Madagascar and Chairman of the African group to the President of the Security Council, which states, inter alia: **,..a colonial situation still exists in Southern Rhodesia which must be settled by the United Nations in the light of the principles laid down by the Charter and reaffirmed by General Assembly resolution 1514 (XV) in order to ensure a return to peace and stability in Southern Rhodesia’’.*

The delegation of the Republic of Zaire will support draft resolution A/34/L.65/ Rev.1 on Zimbabwe which is now before us, in order to demonstrate its constant support for the struggle of the people of Zimbabwe for independence. 31. The Republic of Zaire has always emphasized both the need for agreement among all the sons ol Zimbabwe to settle their problems and the responsibilities of the United Kingdom as the administering Power. Today, we rejoice in the fact that the Unitec Kingdom, the administering Power, has agreed before the world fully to assume its responsibilities in tha’ connexion. At this time. therefore, we should like tc congratulate all the parties that have made their invaluable contribution to the successful conclusion of the 32. Inrecognizing the validity of the Lancaster House agreements, upon which all parties concerned can congratulate themselves today, we also recognize the rights and responsibilities of all the parties concerned and of all the sons of Zimbabwe in defining or choosing the future of Zimbabwe. The Republic of Zaire has played a modest and humble part in the achievement of understanding and of the London agreements, and we hope that those agreements will be respected and implemented in good faith by all the parties concerned, in the interest, of course, not only of the people of Zimbabwe, but of Africa and the world. 33. The Republic of Zaire attaches great importance to true independence for Zimbabwe in peace and with harmony among all its sons, in the interest of the peace and stability so badly needed in that region. We invite all Member States to contribute to the successful outcome of the peaceful process of that country’s accession to independence and to refrain from anything that might obstruct that process or futher aggravate division among the children cf Zimbabwe.

The delegation of the Ivory Coast, in deciding not to participate in the debate in the Fourth Committee on the question of Southern Rhodesia, was guided by its unwillingness to obstruct the efforts of all those who had, since 10 September of this year, been meeting at Lancaster House in an attempt to arrive at a solution to that problem. Those negotiations, which seemed by far the most decisive ever devoted to the question, demanded great attention and caution on our part. However, as our Assembly is preparing to take a decision on the draft resolution submitted to it, and since news that is more than reassuring has reached us from London, the delegation of the Ivory Coast would like to reaffirm its interest in the successful outcome of those negotiations, which are designed to lead Zimbabwe rapidly to independence with the participation of all the parties concerned. We welcome the maturity with which the front-line States and the fighters of the Patriotic Front have faced this long and painful crisis. We appreciate the efforts made by the Government of the United Kingdom, which assumed its responsibility by undertaking to put an end to the illegal régime and providing the practical means of achieving independence. We hope that the elections that are to be held in Southern Rhodesia will go forward calmly and will be as democratic as possible, in order that the will of the people of Zimbabwe may be objectively expressed. The United Kingdom, by agreeing to assume its responsibility in this matter, cannot but strengthen the determination of all who are struggling fiercely for the eradication of colonialism and racial discrimination everywhere in the world and particularly on the African continent. 35. In the light of the news we have received from London, and in strict conformity with our traditional position, which is based on the necessity for all the parties concerned to participate in the search for a remedy for the plight of Rhodesia, the delegation of 36. Mr. CASTELLANOS-CARRILLO (Guatemala) {interpretation from Spanish): The delegation of Guatemala has always held the view that the people of Southern Rhodesia have a right to self-determination and independence. We are aware of the settlement reached in London, at the Lancaster House talks, and we welcome this result particularly because the administering Power has resumed its responsibility by taking over the administration of the colony, to lead it to independence with the participation and goodwill of all parties concerned. 37. For that reason we believe that the United Nations should not undertake the action provided for in draft resolution A/34/L.65/Rev.1; that document deals with a situation that no longer exists now that the London agreement has been reached. In addition, we have reservations on some of the paragraphs which, far from promoting a happy outcome before 1980, in the Southern Rhodesian elections, might very well be an obstacle to a positive settlement of this dispute. 38. Therefore, although my delegation supports Southern Rhodesia's right to self-determination and independence, we shall abstain in the vote on the draft resolution.

The presence of Mrs. Thatcher, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and Lord Carrington, her Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, in the United States — indeed right here in New York—has coincided with a surprising success so long hoped for, namely that of a peaceful settlkement of the Southern Rhodesian conflict, with at the same time increased hope that peace will follow, little by little, in all of southern Africa. 40. All those who cherish peace pay tribute to the tireless efforts of the British Government and all the parties, and to the political wisdom of the Patriotic Front. 41. Of course, we understand the efforts made on various legitimate points by the sponsors of draft resolution A/34/L.65/Rev.1, but there are moments in history when support for peace can brook no hesitation, no quibbling, no obsession with the past. We also feel that this draft resolution is not worthy of this Assembly, and we blush in advance at the thought of its being adopted and published tomorrow in the international press.

My delegation will reluctantly abstain in the vote on draft resolution A/34/ L.65/Rev.1. If we do so it is not because of a lack of sympathy for the Patriotic Front, which has valiantly struggled to the end to bring about, at long last, true democracy for Zimbabwe. It is not because we are in any way in disagreement with the spirit of the draft resolution, but because it fails to take fully into account the happy and encouraging results of the last few weeks and the efforts made by all parties concerned to achieve that result. 44, Had the wording of the draft been inspired by hope for the future rather than by condemnation of what does not strictly comply with legal requirements, we would have been happy to participate in what we would have expected to be a unanimous consensus.

The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/34/L.65/Rev.1. The delegation of Senegal has asked for a separate vote on the last preambular paragraph. Accordingly, I put to the vote the last preambular paragraph of draft resolution A/34/L.65/Rev.1. A recorded vote has been requested. A recorded vote was taken. In favour: Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Angola, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Botswana, Brazil, Bulgaria, Burma, Burundi, Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, China, Congo, Cuba, Cyprus, Czechoslovakia, Democratic Kampuchea, Democratic Yemen, Ecuador, Egypt, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, German Democratic Republic, Ghana, Grenada, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Lesotho, Liberia, Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mali, Malta, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Mongolia, Mozambique, Nepal, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Panama, Philippines, Poland, Qatar, Romania, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Swaziland, Syrian Arab Republic, Togo, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Uganda, Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic, Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, United Arab Emirates, United Republic of Tanzania, Venezuela, Viet Nam, Yemen, Yugoslavia, Zambia. Against: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Federal Republic of, Greece, Guatemala, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Portugal, Turkey, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, United States of America. Abstaining: Argentina, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Fiji, Finland, Honduras, Iceland, Israel, Ivory Coast,

I now put to the vote draft resolution A/34/L.65/Rev.1 as a whole. A recorded vote has been requested. A recorded vote was taten. In favour: Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Argentina, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Botswana, Brazil, Bulgaria, Burma, Burundi, Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, China, Colombia, Comoros, Congo, Costa Rica, Cuba, Cyprus, Czechoslovakia, Democratic Kampuchea, Democratic Yemen, Djibouti, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, German Democratic Republic, Ghana, Grenada, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Lesotho, Liberia, Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Malta, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Mongolia, Mozambique, Nepal, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Panama, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Qatar, Romania, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Swaziland, Syrian Arab Republic, Togo, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Uganda, Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic, Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, United Arab Emirates, United Republic of Tanzania, Upper Volta, Venezuela, Viet Nam, Yemen, Yugoslavia, Zaire, Zambia. Against: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Federal Republic of, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Portugal, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, United States of America. Abstaining: Australia, Austria, Chile, El Salvador, Fiji, Finland, Guatemala, Israel, Ivory Coast, Lebanon, Morocco, Norway, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Samoa, Senegal, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, United Republic of Cameroon, Uruguay. The draft resolution as a whole was adopted by 107 votes to 16, with 21 abstentions (resolution 34/192).

I shall now call upon those delegations wishing to explain their votes after the vote.

The position of the People’s Socialist Republic of Albania on the question of Southern Rhodesia is well known. My country has always condemned the racist régime of Salisbury and the crimes it has committed against the people of Zimbabwe. My country has also condemned the economic, political, diplomatic and even military aid that has been given by the imperialist Powers to that white racist minority régime to preserve the vestiges of colonialism in Southern Rhodesia. 50. We remain firmly convinced that the people of Zimbabwe, despite the manoeuvres of their racist and imperialist enemies, will finally recover their independence and true freedom by persisting in their revolutionary struggle and maintaining their spirit of vigilance. S51. My delegation supports many of the provisions contained in the resolution which has just been adopted, but we must say that we have certain reservations with regard to that resolution. We especially cannot share certain favourable opinions contained in several of the preambular and operative paragraphs with regard to the Lancaster House negotiations and agreements or the role those agreements may play in preparing the necessary conditions for the accession of the people of Zimbabwe to true national indepenence. 52. For those reasons, my delegation did not participate in the vote on draft resolution A/34/L.65/ Rev.1.

We wish to reserve our final position concerning the legal problem referred to in the last preambular paragraph and paragraph 9 of the resolution that has just been adopted. 54. There are differing views concerning whether in the present circumstances States continue to be legally bound by Security Council resolutions imposing sanctions on the former illegal Salisbury régime, and so the most prudent thing for the General Assembly would have been to refrain from a decision on the matter and to request first an opinion from the competent legal authorities of the United Nations. 55. This being the case, we wish to reserve our position on those paragraphs that might prejudge the will of the people of Zimbabwe and are therefore not compatible with the democratic and egalitarian process required by the General Assembly for a just and final settlement of the problem existing in the British coluny of Southern Rhodesia.

My Government warmly welcomes the agreement on the question of Scuihern Rhodesia that has just been concluded at the end of the Lancaster House conference. We wish to commend all those who, through their constructive approach and willingness to reach agreement, have made this historic step possible. Ireland hopes that this agreement will bring a just and lasting settlement to Zimbabwe so that its people may freely exercise their legitimate right to self-determimation and independence, which we have always supported. We look 58. Despite the fact that the resolution just adopted contains a considerable number of provisions with which we are in full agreement, it also contains elements which are not conducive to the objective of assisting the implementation of the agreement. For example, some appear to contradict the key provision that the people of Zimbabwe should themselves elect representatives to determine their future. In these circumstances and in view of the serious nature of the issue, my delegation decided to vote against the draft resolution.

The Danish Government has received with gratification the news that all the parties to the conflict in Southern Rhodesia have agreed on a settlement. It includes an independence constitution, with genuine majority rule for Zimbabwe, transitional arrangements and elections under a lawful Governor and a cease-fire. This means an end to the oppression of the people of Zimbabwe and an end to war and human suffering for that people, as well as for its neighbours. 60. Given the background of the London agreement between all the parties on a settlement of the conflict, we deeply regret that the resolution just adopted contains a number of unnecessary and divisive elements. Today should have been a day of joy and celebration in global unity. To repeat old and controversial arguments hardly serves any constructive purpose but only harms the prestige of this Assembly. For these reasons, my delegation was unable to support the draft resolution just adopted.

My delegation regrets that, at a time when the parties directly concerned have reached agreement after a long process of negotiation involving substantial concessions by all concerned, the General Assembly has been unable to draft a resolution that reflects agreement rather than accentuates differences. My delegation cannot understand how, at a moment when the process of independence for Zimbabwe through free elections has been finally set in motion, one of the parties can already be designated as sole and authentic representative of the people of Zimbabwe. Nor can we accept the endorsement at this particular moment in time of the struggle for the right to self-determination ‘by all means’’. The means of self-determination have been laid down in the Lancaster House agreements and are now limited to the democratic means of free elections. 62. Furthermore, we feel that at this delicate stage in the proceedings the General Assembly should not express itself so emphatically on matters that belong to the competence of the Security Council. We regret 64. For the reasons I have just explained, my delegation has been unable to support the draft resolution and has cast a negative vote.

The United States could not support the resolution that has just been adopted because not only did it violate the principle that, as a general rule, proposals must be circulated not later than the day preceding the meeting at which they will put to the vote, but also was presented to the Assembly as a fait accompli. Our negative vote reflects as well the disappointing substance of the resolution itself. After many years, the rebellion has been brought to an end and the process of peaceful change has begun. My Government could support a draft resolution that reflected that reality. Such a draft resolution would welcome the achievements at Lancaster House and would praise the parties involved, the officials of the United Kingdom and the political leaders of Zimbabwe, for their perseverance, for their co-operation and for their willingness to compromise, in the interests of the future of Zimbabwe. It would offer the assistance of the United Nations family to its newest Member, which would need help and understanding to bind up the wounds of war. 66. The measure which we have been asked to consider and vote upon today dwells on the past, to no useful purpose. It reaffirms the right of armed struggle as though there had been no agreement at Lancaster House. It commends only the Patriotic Front, as though there had been no other participants in the conference. 67. We share the concerns of the sponsors of the resolution regarding the intentions of South Africa and Rhodesia, but it would have been appropriate to note the statement of the British authorities to the effect that there could be no question of any activities by foreign forces in Rhodesia once the British Governor had assumed authority there. 68. This resolution declares the Patriotic Front to be the sole legitimate representative of the people of Zimbabwe, even though the primary purpose of the Lancaster House agreements, accepted by the Patriotic Front, was to devise a procedure which would enable the people of Zimbabwe, to decide for themselves who should represent them. 69. Finally, I wish to note that it is inappropriate for the General Assembly to put limits on resolutions 71. I should add, however, that had we addressed ourselves to the substance of the resolution we should have had to take account of the fact that there are judgements made in the text which we do not accept, and other elements on which we have serious reservations. Australia, accordingly, cast a negative vote when a separate vote was requested on the last preambular paragraph. 72. We also find it surprising that the text contains no reference to the central contribution made to the settlement process at the Meeting of Heads of Government of Commonwealth Countries, at Lusaka.*

The Soviet delegation did not object to the adoption of the resolution on the question of Southern Rhodesia because it contains a number of provisions which are aimed at meeting the intrests and the direct responsibilities of the United Nations with respect to Southern Rhodesia as regards support for the people of Zimbabwe and their national liberation struggle for the implementation of their inalienable right to self-determination and genuine independence. 74. At the same time, the Soviet delegation would like to state that it has very serious doubts with respect to the events in Southern Rhodesia and to the London agreements’ being aimed at the true independence of Zimbabwe and implemented in such a way as to ensure this. We feel that the patriotic forces of Zimbabwe, the African countries and the United Nations must show the utmost possible vigilance in order to ensure that developments in Zimbabwe do not proceed along a neo-colonialist path. 75. Only recently it was said here that someone in Zimbabwe would determine the true representative of the people of Zimbabwe. I should like to stress to those who said that that all the decisions of the United Nations, whose authority in this is well known, state that the Patriotic Front is the sole authentic representative of the people of Zimbabwe. 76. In addition to that, it seems to me that the resolution would benefit if, instead of referring in the preamble to ‘“*certain States’, we indicated, even if we did not mention names, that there are two States involved, because I do not believe that any State other than those two has lifted the sanctions against Southern Rhodesia. In this connexion J feel also that it would have been useful to retain operative paragraph 13 of the draft resolution, which was not a threat to anyone. Nor did 77. We also regret the fact that there is not a paragraph in the resolution directly stating that the administering Power, which has once again taken power in colonial Southern Rhodesia, should prevent any attempt by South Africa to invade Zimbabwe with its armed forces. 78. We were prepared to meet the wishes of the majority in the General Assembly and, together with them, we voted in favour of the resolution. We are convinced that the people of Zimbabwe, however difficult may be the road to self-determination and independence, will be free and independent. We hope and are firmly convinced that the people of Zimbabwe will be represented here by a free and independent State.

My delegation has voted in favour of the resolution because we believe that it reflects what has always been for Cuba a cardinal factor, namely, support for the Patriotic Front, the sole, legitimate and authentic representative of the people of Zimbabwe in their tireless struggle against the Ian Smith racists. 80. The resolution that we have adopted is also in accord with the resolutions adopted by the OAU, the Sixth Conference of Heads of State or Government of Non-Aligned Countries* and the General Assembly itself. 81. Cuba, together with the other non-aligned countries, has given firm support to the cause of the people of Zimbabwe and to the struggle by the fighters of the Patriotic Front. It is precisely this struggle that has made it possible to reach a viable solution that is acceptable to the international community, despite the manoeuvres of certain well known Western Powers and the complicity of the South African racists with the illegal régime of Ian Smith. 82. A new stage in the life of the people of Zimbabwe is beginning and it will be necessary to reaffirm the support of the non-aligned countries, the OAU and all progressive mankind for the establishment of a truly independent and severeign Government, in keeping with the lofty aspirations of the people of Zimbabwe and their vanguard, the Patriotic Front. 83. The international community is in duty bound to condemn the manoeuvres of the Fascist Pretoria clique and to demand the withdrawal of its agents and military forces from Zimbabwe, as well as the withdrawal of the mercenaries hired by the white minority and their accomplices, the “‘Uncle Toms’, of the former Muzorewa Government. 84. On the other hand, it is indispensable that this new stage be undertaken with full guarantees for the front-line States, which have tirelessly and selflessly 85. Cuba is opposed to the unilateral lifting of the sanctions collectively imposed on the Ian Smith régime by the Security Council and, in accordance with the resolution which has been adopted, we consider any action along these lines to be a violation of the obligation assumed by Member States under Article 25 of the Charter of the United Nations. 86. In this new and decisive stage in the fight for independence, the people of Zimbabwe and their sole and legitimate representative, the Patriotic Front, will have the unswerving support of the people and Government of Cuba.

My country has consistently supported the struggle of the people of Zimbabwe to obtain their independence and to choose their form of government through free elections under appropriate international supervision. This support has been shown in the way we have voted in the United Nations on resolutions relating to the subject. However, in the last few weeks dramatic developments have taken place, crowned by the initialling of an agreement which, we hope, will put an end both to the bloodshed of the last few years and to the colonial status of Southern Rhodesia. We feel that these developments are not accurately reflected in the resolution which has been adopted. In particular, they are not reflected in the designation of the Patriotic Front as the sole legitimate representative of the people of Zimbabwe, this on the eve of the elections that will decide who represents that people. Therefore, to our regret, we have had to vote against the resolution. -88. Iconclude by paying tribute to all those who have contributed to the success of the negotiations at Lancaster House and, in the first place, to the British Government for its determination and to the freedom fighters in the front-line States for their political maturity and wisdom.

The resolution which has just been adopted by the General Assembly leaves the Finnish delegation profoundly disappointed. At this particular time, which can be termed historic as regards the question of Southern Rhodesia, we would have expected from the General Assembly action more in keeping with the requirements of the occasion. 90. When the question of Southern Rhodesia was discussed in the Fourth Committee the London conference was still under way. At that time, only a few days ayo, I had occasion to state that, once a peaceful settlement was reached, all parties—I repeat, all parties—to the negotiations should be given an equal share of the deserved tribute to their statesmanship. We, for our part, think that this tribute should have been reflected in the substance as well as in the words of the resolution. In our view, this would have been in keeping with the duty of the General Assembly to give its approval and support to peaceful solutions, the achievement of which is the main aim of this Organization. 92. Furthermore, there are several provisions in the resolution which appear to contradict either the intent or the explicit provisions of the agreement reached in London. 93. Those are the reasons for which my delegation abstained in the voting.

My delegation warmly welcomes the attainment at the Lancaster House talks of an agreement which has met with the acceptance of all parties. Faithfully carried out, that agreement will pave the way for the establishment of genuine majority rule in an independent Zimbabwe through free and democratic elections. 95. Because the present resolution does not reflect the new situation created by the conclusion of the Lancaster House talks, which have provided a basis for a peaceful and just settlement in Rhodesia, my delegation abstained in the voting.

The Sri Lanka delegation voted in favour of the resolution. My delegation takes the view that it would have been more appropriate if the mandatory sanctions had been revoked by decision of the Security Council. We have no doubt that the Security Council, in the present circumstances, would have revoked the sanctions. 97. Wealso wish to take this opportunity to commend the efforts of the United Kingdom Government and the other parties involved in the agreement reached at Lancaster House.

The Canadian Government, like, I am sure, most other Governments, was deeply gratified to iearn of the successful conclusion of the Lancaster House talks on 17 December. The participants in the negotiations are to be congratulated on their truly remarkable achievement. All parties to those talks have now joined in a comprehensive plan to achieve peaceful transition to independence for Rhodesia in accordance with the agreement reached by the Heads of Government of Commonwealth Countries last August. 99. Canada firmly believes that the international community has a duty to support and assist in the successful implementation of the London agreements. Unfortunately, the resolution which has just been adopted does not do this. It does not reflect either in tone or in accuracy the tremendous achievement of all the parties involved in the talks, including the front-line States, the Patriotic Front and the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, as well as the British Government and the administration of Bishop Muzorewa. 100. For this reason we voted against the resolution, and I must confess that we find it difficult to under-

In line with the position of the Indonesian Government on the question of Southern Rhodesia, my delegation voted in favour of the resolution which has just been adopted, since the spirit and objective of the resolution reflect the aspiration of the people of Zimbabwe to achieve independence in the immediate future. Nevertheless, we are not entirely happy with the formulation of certain paragraphs.

My delegation voted in favour of the resolution that has just been adopted. Nevertheless, we have reservations with respect to the formulation in the ninth preambular paragraph, which refers to the Patriotic Front as the sole, legitimate and authentic representative of the people of Zimbabwe. Our Government has always given priority to the Patriotic Front in the military sphere, but we feel that, in the wake of the agreements of Lancaster House, it will be up to the people of Zimbabwe themselves at the next elections, which we hope will be free, to decide on the authority which will represent them politically.

My delegation voted in favour of the resolution that has just been adopted, in keeping with the policy of the Philippines on decolonization. However, my delegation had hoped for and would have preferred a more balanced resolution which could have been adopted by consensus and which would have reflected more fully the significance of the agreements reached in London among all the parties concerned in the international effort to bring about genuine independence in Zimbabwe on the basis of free and fair elections.

Yesterday, the representative of the United Kingdom informed this Assembly [ibid.] that a full agreement had been reached in the Lancaster House negotiations. I am certain that all delegations that are genuinely interested in seeing an independent and democratically ruled Zimbabwe emerge from a long and bitter struggle whole-heartedly welcomed this development. In our opinion, this General Assembly should have reacted with a resolution which took fully into account those latest developments and expressed the consensus feeling of the Assembly. We deeply regret that that was not possible. 105. We have a number of reservations on the resolution which was just adopted, above all with regard to the preambular paragraph, which defines the Patriotic Front as the sole legitimate representative of the people of Zimbabwe, before the holding of elections. It is for that reason that Austria had to abstain in the vote.

Sweden expresses its regret that at this time, in the closing hours of this session and at a moment crucial to the developments in Zimbabwe-Rhodesia, we are faced with a resolution that has invited strong divergences of opinion among Member States. 108. Moreover, the resolution contains some recommendations which we find difficult to support, inter alia, in vew of the necessity of an objective attitude to the forthcoming elections. 109. For these reasons, Sweden abstained in the vote on the draft resolution.

The General Assembly will now resume the election of one non-permanent member of the Security Council from the group of Latin American States, for a two-year term beginning on { January 1980. 111. Following the inconciusive ballots held at its 47th, 48th, SOth, 53rd, 83rd, 90th, 98th, 102nd and 106th plenary meetings, held on 26 and 30 October, 2 and 29 November and 5, i1, 13 and 17 December, in accordance with rule 94 of the rules of procedure the Assembly will now hold the next ballot, which is the ninety-fifth ballot. 112. I should like to make a few observations. As representatives know, despite the fact that we have held 94 ballots, the Assembly has still not discharged the responsibility of electing five non-permanent members of the Security Council, which is placed on the Assembly at this session by the Charter and the rules of procedure. 113. As representatives also know, we are now in what would normally be the closing hours of this session of the General Assembly. But since the balloting has thus far been inconclusive, we are still obliged, under rule 94 of the rules of procedure, to repeat the procedure until all the places on the Security Council have been filled. That is a responsibility which we cannot shirk. We have a solemn obligation to ensure that as of 1 January there is no question about the composition of the Security Council. 114. Above all it is of vital importance that nothing be done to raise questions about the integrity and viability of the Security Council as the primary organ of the United Nations responsible for the maintenance of international peace and security. At this point in history, as we enter a new decade, it is especially important that the Organization, through this Assembly, perform its assigned task of determining the composition of the Security Council. 115. I mention this problem in some detail because, quite frankly, time is rapidly running out. Therefore, I wish all the members of the Assembly to know that 116. In accordance with rule 94 of the rules of procedure, this ballot will be the first in a series of three unrestricted ballots. In this unrestricted ballot any Member State from the group of Latin American States may be a candidate for election except, of course, Bolivia, which is about to vacate its seat, and Jamaica, which is already a member of the Council. The ballot papers will now be distributed. At the invitation of the President, Mr. Mardovich (Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic) and Mr. Celikkol (Turkey) acted as tellers. A vote was taken by secret ballot.

I propose now to suspend the meeting while the ballots are being counted. The meeting was suspended at 5 p.m. and resumed at 5.10 p.m.

The result of the voting is as follows: Number of ballot papers: 148 Invalid ballots: 0 Number of valid ballots: 148 Abstentions: 1 Number of members voting: 147 Required majority: 98 Number of votes obtained: Cuba 2... cc eee eee eee 88 Colombia ........ 0 ccc e cece eee 58 |<) 0) | I

As the result of the first unrestricted ballot was inconclusive, we shall now proceed to a second unrestricted ballot. Ballot papers will now be distributed. At the invitation of the President, Mr. Mardovich (Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic) and Mr. Celikkol (Turkey) acted as tellers, A vote was taken by secret ballot.

I now propose to suspenc the meeting while the ballots are being counted. The meeting was suspended at 5.15 p.m. and re. sumed at 5.25 p.m.

The result of the voting & as follows: Number of ballot papers: 147 Invalid ballots: 0 Number of valid baliots: 147 Abstentions: | Number of members voting: 146 Required majority: 98 Number of votes obtained: Cuba... ccc cece cece cence eee 84 Colombia ............0cc cece ene cees 60 PETU .. occ cece eee ee ee eens 2 At the invitation of the President, Mr. Mardovich (Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic) and Mr. Celikkol (Turkey) acted as tellers. A vote was taken by secret ballot.

I propose now to suspend the meeting while the ballots are being counted. The meeting was suspended at 5.35 p.m, and resumed at 5.40 p.m.

The result of the voting is as follows: Number of ballot papers: 146 Invalid ballots: 0 Number of valid ballots: 146 Abstentions: l Number of members voting: 145 Required majority: 97 Number of votes obtained: Cuba oo. cee cece cee cence nee e eee 82 Colombia .........s eee e ence cee cees 60 PELU. ccc ccc cece eee cece nent ees 3

Since the third unrestricted ballot has proved inconclusive, the Assembly will now proceed to the first of a series of three restricted ballots, in accordance with rule 94 of the rules of procedure. This ballot is restricted to the two candidates that have obtained the largest number of votes, namely Cuba and Colombia. Any ballot paper containing any name other than that of Cuba or Colombia will be declared invalid. Ballot papers will now be distributed. At the invitation of the President, Mr. Mardovich (Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic) and Mr. Celikkol (Turkey) acted as tellers. A vote was taken by secret ballot.

I now propose to suspend the meeting while the ballots are being counted. The meeting was suspended at 5.45 p.m. and resumed at 5.55 p.m.

The result of the voting is as follows: Number of ballot papers: 147 Invalid ballots: I Number of valid ballots: 146 Abstentions: 2 Number of members voting: 144 Required majority: 96 Number of votes obtained: Cuba ...... 0. ce ee eee eee eee 82 Colombia ..........2-.2e cece ee eee 62

Since the first restricted ballot has proved inconclusive, we shall now proceed to At the invitation of the President, Mr. Mardovich (Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic) and Mr. Celikkoi (Turkey) acted as tellers. A vote was taken by secret ballot.

I propose now to suspend the meeting while the ballots are being counted. The meeting was suspended at 6.05 p.m. and resumed at 6.10 p.m.

The result of the voting is as follows: Number of ballot papers: 148 Invalid ballots: ] Number of valid ballots: 147 Abstentions: ] Number of members voting: 146 Required majority: 98 Number of votes obtained: Cuba 2. cece cece eee enes 86 Colombia ......... cece eee eee 60

Since the second restricted ballot has proved inconclusive, we shall now proceed to a third restricted ballot. As in the last ballot, the only countries whose names may be included in the ballot papers are Cuba and Colombia. Any papers containing the names of other countries will be declared invalid. The ballot papers will now be distributed. At the invitation of the President, Mr. Mardovich (Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic) and Mr. Celikkol (Turkey) acted as tellers. A vote was taken by secret ballot.

I propose now to suspend the meeting while the ballots are being counted. The meeting was suspended at 6.20 p.m. and resumed at 6.25 p.m.

The result of the voting is as follows: Number of ballot papers: 148 Invalid ballots: 1 Number of valid ballots: 147 Abstentions: 1 Namber of members voting: 146 Required majority: 98 Number of votes obtained: Cuba 2... eee ee eee eens 88 Colombia ............ 0... 58

Since the third restricted ballot did not produce a candidate with the required two-thirds majority, the General Assembly will proceed to the first in a series of three unrestricted ballots in accordance with rule 94 of the rules of procedure. At the invitation of the President, Mr. Mardovich (Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic) and Mr. Celikkol (Turkey) acted as tellers. A vote was taken by secret ballot.

I propose now to suspend the meeiing while the ballots are being counted. The meeting was susperded at 6.35 p.m. end resumed ut 6.45 p.m.

The result of the voting is as follows: Number of ballot papers: 147 Invalid ballots: 0 Number of valid ballots: 147 Abstentions: 0 Number of members voting: 147 Required majority: 98 Number of votes obtained: Cuba oo... ec eee eee eee eee 87 Colombia .......... cece cece eee eee 31 PETU..... cece eee ec cere eee e eens 9

Since the first unrestricted ballot has proved inconclusive, we shall now proceed to a second unrestricted bzllot under the same terms and conditions. The ballot papers will now be distributed. At the invitation of the President, Mr. Mardovich (Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic) and Mr. Celikkol (Turkey) acted as tellers. A vote was taken by secret ballot. 139. fhe PRESIDENT: I propose now to suspend the meeting while the ballots are being counted. The meeting was suspended at 6.50 p.m. and resumed at 7 p.m.

The result of the voting is as follows: Number of ballot papers: 146 Invalid ballots: 0 Number of valid ballots: 146 Abstentions: 0 Number of members voting: 146 Required majority: 98 Number of votes obtained: Cuba 2... ec cee ee eee 81 Colombia .................2.00 0000. 47 POTU ee cee cee ee ee eee 16 Guatemala ...............- 00020020 ] Guyana ... 22.2... cee eee 1

Since the second in the series of unrestricted ballots has proved inconclusive, we shall naw nroaceed ta the third unrectristed hallatr A vote was taken by secret ballot.

I propose now to suspend the meeting while the ballots are being counted. The meeting was suspended at 7.05 p.m, and resumed at 7.15 p.m.

The result of the voting is as follows: ° Number of ballot papers: 147 Invalid ballots: 0 Number of valid ballots: 147 Abstentions: 0 Number of members voting: 147 Required majority: 98 Number of votes obtained: Cuba oo... eee ce cee eens 79 Colombia ....... 0... ccc cece eee eee 44 go) a 23 Panama ...... cee cece eee cee cence 1

Since the third unrestricted ballot has proved inconclusive, the General Assembly will proceed to the first of three restricted ballots in accordance with rule 94 of the rules of procedure. This ballot is restricted to the two candidates that have obtained the largest number of votes, namely Cuba and “olombia. Any ballot papers containing the name of any other country will be declared invalid. The ballot papers will now be distributed. At the invitation of the President, Mr. Mardovich (Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic) and Mr. Celikkol (Turkey) acted as tellers. A vote was taken by secret ballot.

I propose now to suspend the meeting while the ballots are being counted. The meeting was suspended at 7.20 p.m. and resumed at 7.30 p.m.

The result of the voting is as follows: Number of ballot papers: 148 Invalid ballots: 0 Number of valid ballots: 148 Abstentions: 2 Number of members voting: 146 Required majority: 98 Number of votes obtained: Cuba oo. cece cence eee 86 Colombia ........0..0..000 000 cee cee 60

Since the first restricted ballat hac nrnved ta he ineanclicive we chall naa nrac At the invitation of the President, Mr. Mardovich (Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic) and Mr. Celikkol (Turkey) acted as tellers. A vote was taken by secret ballot.

I propose now to suspend the meeting while the ballots are being counted. The meeting was suspended at 7.40 p.m. and resumed at 7.45 p.m.

The result of the voting is as follows: Number of ballot papers: 145 Invalid ballots: 1 Number af valid ballots: 144 Abstentions: 2 Number of members voting: 142 Required majority: 95 Number of votes obtained: EC] 6: 88 Colombia ......... cc cee eee eee 54

Since this second restricted ballot has proved to be inconclusive, we shall now proceed to the third restricted ballot under the same terms and conditions. The ballot papers will now be distributed. At the invitation of the President, Mr. Mardovich (Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic) and Mr. Celikkol (Turkey) acted as tellers. A vote was taken by secret ballot.

I propose now to suspend the meeting while the ballots are being counted. The meeting was suspended at 7.55 p.m. and resumed at 8 p.m.

The result of the voting is as follows: Number of ballot papers: 146 Invalid ballots: 0 Number of valid ballots: 146 Abstentions: 2 Number of members voting: 144 Required majority: 96 Number of votes obtained: OT 2: 87 Colombia ............. 0.2 e cece ees 57

I call upon the representative of Peru on a point of order.

My delegation would like to say that Peru has not submitted its candidacy for a seat on the Security Council and has not sought any support or made any Latin American candidates that are taking part in the process.

As the result of the third restricted ballot was inconclusive, we shall now proceed to the first of a series of unrestricted ballots in accordance with rule 94 of the rules of procedure, in which members may vote for any member State from the group of Latin American States except Bolivia and Jamaica. The ballot papers will now be distributed. At the invitation of the President, Mr. Mardovich (Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic) and Mr. Celikkol (Turkey) acted as tellers. A vote was taken by secret ballot.

I propose now to suspend the meeting while the ballots are being counted. The meeting was suspended at 8.10 p.m. and resumed at 8.20 p.in.

The result of the voting is as follows: Number of ballot papers: 145 invalid ballots: 0 Number of valid ballots: 145 Abstentions: 0 Number of members voting: 145 Required majority: 97 Number of votes obtained: Cuba oo... eccrine 81 Colombia ....... 0... cece eee ees $2 PETU Leen teens 10 Brazil 2.0.0... ce cece cee e eee 1 Nicaragua... .... 0. ee eee ]

Since this first in a series of unrestricted ballots has proved inconclusive, we shall now proceed to a second unrestricted ballot under the same terms and conditions. The ballot papers will now be distributed. At the invitation of the President, Mr. Mardovich (Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic) and Mr. Celikkol (Turkey) acted as tellers. A vote was taken by secret ballot.

| propose now to suspend the meeting while the ballots are being counted. The meeting was suspended at 8.25 p.m. and resumed at 8.35 pom.

The result of the voting is as follows: Nuaniber of ballot papers: 144 Invalid ballots: 0 Number of valid ballots: 144

Since the second in this series of unrestricted ballots has proved inconclusive, we shall now proceed to a third unrestricted ballot. As before, in this unrestricted ballot any member State from the group of Latin American States may be a candidate for election except, of course, Bolivia and Jamaica. The batiot papers will now be distributed. At the invitation of the President, Mr. Mardovich (Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic) and Mr. Celikkol (Turkey) acted as tellers. A vote was taken by secret ballot.

I propose now to suspend the meeting while the ballots are being counted. The meeting was suspended at 845 p.m. and resumed at 8.55 p.m.

The result of the voting is - as follows: Number of ballot papers: 147 Invalid ballots: 0 Number of valid ballots: 147 Abstentions: 0 Number of members voting: 147 Required majority: 98 Number of votes obtained: Cuba .... cece cee ee cee cece nee 81 Colombia ............ cc cee cere cee 60 Brazil 2.0... 2. ec cee eee eee 2 PETU.... eee cece cette eee 2 Chile .... 2.0... . eee cece eee een eee 1 MEXICO ..... ce ccc cence cece eees I

Since the result of the third unrestricted ballot has proved inconclusive, the Assembly will now proceed to the first of a series of th:ze restricted ballots in accordance with rule 94 of the rules of procedure. This ballot is restricted to the two candidates that have obtained the largest number of votes, namely Cuba and Colombia. The ballot papers will now be distributed. At the invitation of the President, Mr. Mardovich (Byelortssian Soviet Socialist Republic) and Mr. Celikkol (Turkey) acted as tellers. A vote was taken by secret ballot.

I propose now to suspend the meeting while the ballots are being counted. The mecting was suspended at 9.00 p.m. and resumed at 9.10 p.n.. Number of votes obtained: Cuba oo. eee eee cece cece ee eeee 86 Colombia ............ ccc ceccceeeecs 59

Since the first restricted ballot has proved inconclusive the Assembly will now proceed to a second restricted ballot. As in the last ballot, the only countries whose names may be included in the ballot papers are Cuba and Colombia. Any papers containing the names of other countries will be declared invalid. The ballot papers will now be distributed. At the invitation of the President, Mr. Mardovich (Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic) and Mr. Celikkol (Turkey) acted as tellers. A vote was taken by secret ballot.

I now propose to suspend the meeting while the ballots are being counted. The meeting was suspended at 9.15 p.m. and resumed at 9.30 p.m.

The result of the voting is as follows: Number of ballot papers: 147 Invalid ballots: 0 Number of valid ballots: 147 Abstentions: 2 Number of members voting: 145 Required majority: 97 Number of votes obtained: Cuba ..... cece cece cece 87 Colombia ............ 0. cece eee eee 58

As neither candidate received the necessary majority, we shall now proceed to a third restricted ballot under the same terms and conditions as the previous ones. This will be our final ballot for this evening. The ballot papers will now be distributed. At the invitation of the President, Mr. Mardovich (Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic} and Mr. Celikkol (Turkey) acted as tellers. A vote was taken by secret ballot.

I propose now to suspend the meeting while the ballots are being counted. The meeting was suspended at 9.40 p.m. and resumed at 9.45 p.m. Number of votes obtained: Cuba 20... ccc ccc ce cee eee ence 88 Colombia .......... 00. cece eee 58 Organization of work

Members will recall that on 21 September the General Assembly, at its 4th plenary meeting, established today, 18 December, as the closing date of the thirty-fourth session. However, as has become abundantly clear, it has not been possible this afternoon and this evening, despite the fact that we have now completed 112 ballots, an unprecedented 174. Accordingly, i have no alternative at this point but to propose that the Assembly extend its session by one day. This would also permit us to dispose of the final draft resolutions being considered in the Fifth Committee, which is still in the process of concluding its work. If this proposal meets with the approval of the Assembly, we shall meet tomorrow morning to complete the remaining Second Committee items which we have not been able to consider today. Following that, we shall resume the balloting for the remaining Security Council seat. At the afternoon meeting we shall complete action on the final recommendations from the Fifth Committee. 175. On this basis, may I take it that the General Assembly agrees to extend its session by one day? It was so decided, The meeting rose at 9.50 p.iin.