A/35/PV.27 General Assembly

Mr. President, I congratulate you on your election as President of the General Assembly. This recognition of your qualities of leadership and your demon- strated skills and experience in diplomacy is a tribute to YOLI personally and to your country, with which my country has long-standing cordial and fruitful relations. My delegation will co-operate with you and give you all possible support in the discharge of your responsibilities as President of the thirty-fifth session of the General Assembly. 7. In Namibia, the United Nations has been frustrated in its efforts to bring to an end the unlawful occupation of the Territory by the illegitimate and odious npartheidrCgilne of South Africa. Although negotiations on Namibia’s freedom were completed more than two years ago and agreement was reached, South Africa has continued to engage in trans- parent delaying tactics calculated to deflate pressure for action by the United Nations, while doing nothing to bring to an end its own illega1 occupationoftheTerritory. Indeed, it has continued its efforts to create institutions and puppets through which it hopes it will continue to direct theaffairs of Namibia and to exploit its resources after completing the semblance of withdrawal. The United Nations must reject all those manoeuvres and take enforcement measures under the Charter of the United Nations to heal that ugly sore. Namibia must be free. 2. I also wish to pay a tribute to your predecessor, Ambas- sador Salim of the United Republic of Tanzania, who pre- sided over the General Assembly during an unusually busy and difficult year. He did a good job under difficult circum- stances. The United Nations and the international commun- ity as a whole owe him a debt of gratitude. 3. The ever expanding responsibilities of the United Nations have occasioned the growth of staff and financial burdens that in turn have increased the burdens of manag- ing the Organization. My delegation would like to pay a tribute to the Secretary-General and his staff for taking the Organization through these very difficult years. 8. South Africa is the only country in the world in which human beings are sorted out like animals on the basis ofthe pigmentation of their skin and then granted or denied their basic human rights according to that classification. To satisfy the official racist policies of separation, even the whites continue to be subjected to punishment for crossing the colour line in certain kinds of behaviour. The so-called Coloureds or Bailtus continue to be treated like beasts of burden, The tyranny of the system has no limits, Indeed, the whole system is so full of contradictions and incot&tencies that only the most oppressive and brutal violence of State machinery can hold it unsteadily together. That constitutes a constant source of threat to world peace. 4. This year our Organization has grown to include 154 Members. We welcome the sister State ofzimbabwe, whose delegation is attending the regular session of the General Assembly for the first time. For many years my country has joined hands with many others in supporting the people of Zimbabwe to eliminate the racism andcolonialism that held them in subjugation, Their success has given us immense joy. WC also warmly welcome Saint Vincent and the Grena- dines to the United Nations family. We look foward to having fruitful relations with them. 523 A/35/PV.27 NEW YORK 10. It is saddening to note that no acceptable solution of the problem in the Middle East has been found, For a long time now we have witnessed the miserable plight of the Palestinian people, dispossessed, dispersed and uprooted from their land. My delegation has made its views known on many occasions in the deliberations of this Orgtinization on the question of the rights of the Palestinian people, We still believe that no lasting peace can be achieved until the legiti- mate interests of the Palestinian people are taken into account and adequately safeguarded. We continue to call upon those directly concerned to be realistic and to address themselves to the real issues with a determination to resolve the problems. The basic elements involve the acceptance by all parties of the following: first, the right of all States in the region to live in peace and in recognized and therefore secure boundaries; secondly, the withdrawal of Israel from all Arab territories occupied since 1967, and also from East Jerusa- lem, as already decided upon by the United Nations; and thirdly, recognition of the right of the Palestinians to a national home, free, independent and sovereign. Il. As long as the parties to the dispute continue to refuse to rccognize the essential elements of this problem, the Middle East will continue to pose a threat to international peace and security. Failure to settle this problem today will not make it easier to solve it in the future. If anything, it will make it even more difficult. 12. The problem of Cyprus continues to elude solution, but we urge the communities to make every effort to find a negotiated settlement. Clearly, acquisition of territory by force and the transplantation of populations is not the way to find a lasting peace. We urge the people of Cyprus to recognize their long-term interests and to make use of the opportunity provided by the presence of the United Nations to negotiate a lasting solution that will preserve the integrity of Cyprus. 13. The recent development in Korea is of great concern. This concerns the sudden unilateral suspension of the ongo- ing South-North working level contacts by North Korea, which causes a great threat to the peace and stability of the Korean peninsula. We urge South Korea and North Korea, the parties directly concerned, to resume the dialogue imme- diately in accordance with the letter and spirit of the South- North Joint CommuniquC of 4 July 1972,’ thereby easing the tension and improving relations as a means of moving doser towards the attainment of a peaceful solution of the Korean problem. 14. I should like to draw attention to the continuing arms race, Large proportions of national resources continue to be devoted to the production of arms in preparation for war. 1 official Rccar-rls c~f the General Assembly, Twenly-scvennlh Session, Supplen~enr No. 27. annex I. international climate has deteriorated considerably. This should not serve as an excuse to reverse the momentum that has been built up in the improvement of international rda- tions. The momentum must be maintained if mankind is to survive. 15. We have all agreed that nuclear weapons constitute a major threat to our world today. Kenya is against the prolif- eration of nuclear weapons and we should like to appeal to all Governments to support efforts towards halting the dangerous process of nuclear proliferation. Successful efforts to create a foolproof non-proliferation r@gime pre- supposes a will to co-operate on the part of the nuclear- weapon Powers. They have heavy responsibilities. Many of us who have voluntarily renounced any right to acquire nuclear weapons under the terms of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons [reso&c,ion 2373 &X14, anne,~] are, however, interested in the potentiat benefits of peaceful applications of nuclear energy. We do not believe that the peaceful application of nuclear energy will automatically lead to proliferation of nuclear weapons as long as all States, nuclear and non-nuclear, agree IO observe strictly the safeguards laid down by IAEA. WC strongly appeal to the nuclear-weapon States, as well as to the developed countries which possess sophisticated civilian nuclear technology, to implement article IV of the non- proliferation Treaty. 16. Having given up our right to acquire nuclear weapons, we believe that we have every right to insist that the efforts lo stop horizontal nuclear proliferation should be matched by equal efforts on the part of the nuclear-weapon States thcm- selves to stop vertical proliferation. We cannot be convinced of the sincerity of the nuclear-weapon States as long as their actions in increasing the sophisticated use of nuclear energy for armaments do not conform with their frequent protcsta- tions of willingness to decelerate and subsequently to stop altogether the nuclear arms race. 17. The failure of the Second Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons2 should not be used as an excuse to abandon or wreck ongoing dialogue in other disarmament forums. 18. We have waited a long time for this body to receive rhe final results of the Third United Nations Conference on the Law of the Sea,’ which is dealing with the important clues- tion of concluding a comprehensive treaty on the law of the sea. While we regret that nine sessions of that Conference have failed to produce a treaty, we are encouraged by the report that remarkable progress has been made in resolving the outstanding issues and that we should expect to sign a * Held at Ckneva rrom 11 August to 7 September 1980 ’ See document AKONF.62lWP. IO/Rev.3 and Corr.1 and 3. 19. Similarly, we should like to see questions regarding the transfer oftechnologyadequatelydealt with so that develop- ing countries which have hitherto been left behind in this field will receive sufficient consideration. We also consider that the new machinery envisaged for the resolution of issues within the Council and the Assembly, the principal organs of the Authority, will be worked out in a manner that will be fair and equitable in so far as the world community as a whole is concerned. In this connection, we have welcomed the recent progress made with respect to the resolution of issues in both the Council and the Assembly in relation to the deep-sea mining of manganese nodules. 24. Energy is one of the most serious problems of this decade and even of this century. The economic situation of the developing nations has been made particularly gloomy because of the energy crisis and will almost certainly remain so for sqme time to come. Kenya is one of the developing countries seriously affected by the energy crisis and it was one of the first countries to see the urgent and imperative need to shift the dependence of countries from petroleum to a greater reliance on alternative new and renewable sources of energy. It is our hope that the United Nations Conference on New and Renewable Sources of Energy, to be held at Nairobi in August 1981, will offer the world community a rare opportunity to find alternative solutiQns to our energy problems. My Government looks forward with enthusiasm to acting as host to that Conference and we wish the Prepar- atory Committee for the Conference every success. 20. I wish to reiterate our position on this matter. We are totally opposed to any procedures that would grant certain States the right to veto decisions. We consider that to be inconsistent with the principle of the sovereign equality of States and also the principle of the right of every State to dispose of its own resources in the manner best suited to it. Thus, in welcoming the results of the negotiations regarding the voting procedures in the Council, we consider that in the event of a failure to reach a consensus the issues which remain unresolved should be referred to the Assembly for resolution. It is our view that the Assembly, being the most representative body and the principle organ of authority, is the organ best suited for that purpose. We intend to press for the adoption of that approach at the next session of the Conference next year. 21. We consider the question of the transfer of technology to the Enterprise to be a major issue requiring very careful treatment. We take the view that in order for the Enterprise to get off the ground it must be provided with the necessary technology. We shall therefore maintain at the next session of the Conference that the transfer of technology should be a continuous process throughout the 25years of mining activities instead of the 10 years now proposed in the text. Furthermore we shall seek to obtain for the Enterprise the transfer of technology in relation to the processing and marketing of the manganese nodules once they have been recovered from the sea-bed. 22. We have alluded to the question of the identification, with a reasonable measure of certainty, of the rights and obligations of States arising from the new areas designated under the Convention on the law of the sea. Of particular importance in our view is the question of the delimitation of the continental shelf and of the exclusive economic zones of opposite and adjacent States. Negotiations on that issue continue to be difficult and we doubt ifagreement could be reached on the basis of an equidistance criterion, which is urged by a number of States. We urge that principles of equity be explored further in arder to resolve the remaining problems without delay. 23. The 10 years following the launching of the Second United Nations Development Decade will go down in his- tory as the decade of great but lost opportunities. The decisions emanating from the numerous conferences we have held since then on problems of development have hardly been implemented, These include the recommenda- 25. On international trade and raw materials we should like to see a substantial increase in the developing countries’ trade in manufactures. Furthermore, we seek differentials and more favourable treatment of the developing countries and the elimination of non-tariff barriers and other aspects of protectionism. 26. As for economic and technical co-operation among the developing countries, Kenya calls on them to intensify their activities at sub-regional, regional and inter-regional levels and to undertake regular studies to expand trade and monetary co-operation among themselves. We consider it essential for the developing nations also to increase their share in the trading, transport, marketing and distribution of their primary commodities. 27. We also urge the countries able to do so to provide financial and technical support to enable the countries of the South to realize their objectives. The developing nations have constantly called for reform of the international mone- tary system and the early achievement of the target of official development assistance, We regret that the deve- loped countries have not yet increased the transfer of resour- ces in real terms to the developing nations to the extent stipulated in the United Nations decision. 28. The International Development Strategy for the Third United Nations Development Decade, agreed upon at the eleventh special session of the General Assembly [decision $1Z’3] was not fully representative of the interests of the developing countries. We hope and believe that the provi- sion in the Strategy for a review and appraisal mechanism, as well as for the implementation of regional development strategies such as the Lagos Plan of Action for the Imple- mentation of the Monrovia Strategy for the Economic Development of Africa,4 will strengthen the Strategy in the course of the decade and accelerate its implementation. 29. It is essential that the Strategy for the 1980s should, among other things, secure a substantial average annual growth in agricultural production in the developing coun- 4 See document A/S-I l/14, annex. 30. We note with appreciation the agreement and recogni- tion at the Industrial Development Board’s recent session’ of the fact that Africa is the least developed of all the developing regions, and that consequently the General AssembIy should proclaim the decade of 1980-1990 as the industrial development decade for Africa. As the least deve- loped region containing the largest number of least deve- loped, land-locked and most seriously affected developing countries, Africa requires massive financial and technical support. We hope that donor countries and the interna- tional community as a whole will make substantial contribu- tions towards the achievement of the objectives of the decade in Africa. 3 1. Similarly, we call on the donor countries and the inter- national community to contribute substantially towards the fulfilment of the needs of the continent in the field of trans- port and communications. Improvement of this system will enhance intra-African trade and develop the rural areas of the African continent. Adequate and continued support is essential for the implementation of the Transport and Com- munications Decade in Africa, which terminates in 1988. 32. Science and technology are crucial elements for the achievement of the objectives of the Third United Nations Development Decade. High priority must therefore be given to the improvement of the capacity of the developing coun- tries to make better use of science and technology for devel- opment. Indigenous developments in science and technology should be brought into national planning in order to help reduce the problem of the brain drain by creating research centres in these countries and accelerating the process of their transformation and development. 33. We cannot stress strongly enough the need to pay greater attention to the four special categories of States recognized by the United Nations. We urge the international community and countries in a position to do so to take measures to assist them to overcome their problems of economic development. 34. When I addressed the eleventh special session of this Assembly five weeks ago,6 I stressed my Government’s concern at the structural disequilibrium and critical situa- tion in which the world economy finds itself today. We are experiencing the worst economic crisis since the 193Os, and there is every indication from present trends that the situa- tion is likely to get worse. Knowing this, we owe it to posterity to make a greater effort to resolve the remaining issues in the North-South dialogue during this session as far as wc can. 35. This year, we witnessed yet another world conference, the World Conference of the United Nations Decade for 6 Ibid, Eleventh .S,verial Session, Plenary Meetings. I OttI meeting. 36. On the whole, the Conference came out with a very constructive World Plan of Action coveiingalmost all issues of concern to human development. It further underscored the fact that the issues that concern the world today arealso the concern of women and, therefore, women should be involved in ail national and international activities andat all levels. My Government supported the Plan of Action pro- duced by the Conference, and we shall endeavour to implc- ment it to the best of our ability. 37. In a resolution of that Conference, it was decided to convene another Conference in 1985 to review the achicvc- ments of the Decade for Women and to take stock ofall that will have happened daring the Decade. The Conferenccwill also deliberate on what remains to be done in order 10 continue to improve the condition of women all over the world, The Kenyan Government offered to host that Con- ference at Nairobi in 1985. We hope this offer will bc accepted by the General Assembly. 38. In conclusion, let me say this: the world community owes it to posterity to remove poverty, disease and hunger from this planet-at least, to makesubstantial contributions towards that goal. We have the resources, we have IIX technology. Let us together demonstrate the political will to get on with the job. 39. Mr, FORDE (Barbados): We meet at a time when Lhc world economic outlook, both immediate and longer term, is depressingly bleak. On the political front, discussions on dCtente are deadlocked. There is a continuing escalation in the build-up of arms. Disputes between nations, particular@ in the third world, are increasingly characterized by recourse to arms rather than being solved by the use of the machinery for peaceful settlement provided in the Charter. 40. It is a time which demands of each nation, of each one of us, the expression of genuine concern which YOU, Mr. President, have continuously shown for the aims and spirit of the Charter of the United Nations. Your election fO the presidency of this Organisation is indeed opportune,and should be the harbinger of that commitment which is demanded of us if we are, in an atmosphere of comprotnisc, to find satisfactory answers to the issues which ~~ICC the thirty-fifth session. Barbados is sure that the experience and wisdom you bring to this task will help us to fashion SC~~U- tions for the daunting problems confronting our nations in the 1980s. 41. It is fitting to record here our gratitude to the outgoin&! President, Mr. Salim, for the attention and dedication which he devoted to the critical issues which arose during his tern1 of office. His performance has been a credit not only to hirtl and to this Organization, but to his country, the United Republic of Tanzania, as well. 42. It must have been a source of deep personal regret to him that patience, diplomatic skill and an attitude Of’ WFll- promise did not provide a sufficient catalyst to bring to a 43. Two years ago, at our thirty-third session, I made reference to the fact that proposals for the transformation of certain inherited, outmoded economic structures which were stunting the economic development of third-world countries were continually being discussed in numerous forums, but no real progress was being achieved. 1 said then: “We cannot accept that relations among nations should continue to be conducted on the basis of a ‘zero-sum’ principle, which assumes that the extent of a country’s increase in the enjoyment of goods and services is equal to the loss of goods and services enjoyed by other countries . . . . “Developed countries, in the negotiations for a new international economic order, are still preoccupied with looking at quantifiable variables. Consequently they con- clude that, since the relationship between the developed and the developing countries is asymmetrical, with a preponderance of economic power weighted in favour of the developed countries, then it is possible to continue ad infinitum an international system of dependency without full and fair participation by the developing countries , , , .“’ 44. Events, expressed attitudes and the continued lack of progress during the past year in the North-South dialogue confirm this assessment. The crisis in international eco- nomic relations continues. We have once again failed in a special session of this Organization to make any further progress towards eliminating the dangerous and debilitating economic chasm between developed and developing coun- tries. And the chasm is widening the longer we fail to act. In spite of the depressing economic prospects which the world faces, and at a time when the world economy is in a state of deep crisis, a number of developed countries stand fast behind their ramparts and refuse toexcrcisc the political will and firm commitment needed to deal with a dire and danger- ous situation. Mr* Aboul-Nusr (Oman), Vice-President, took the Chair. 45. Continued refusal to take positive action to restructure and revitalize the global economy by establishing a more equitable, just and stable international economic order will certainly multiply, not diminish, the problems which at present face us. Because of the undoubted interdependency of the world in which we live, all countries will suffer from further stagnation unless the fundamental changes envis- aged under the New International Economic Order are agreed on without further delay. Enlightened self-interest demands of the North a positive decision. 46. A year ago my delegation emphasized from this ros- trum8 that the only way to rescue the world economy was to initiate immediately a full, constructive and genuine dia- logue on the vital issues of structural change, energy, trade and monetary reform. We also warned that any negotiations implicit in such a dialogue must be serious and meaningful if 47. The time has certainly come when such myopic and selfish conduct in international economic relations must cease. For we cannot be expected to respect and have confi- dence in our partners in negotiations of any kind-let alone negotiations on fundamental structural change in interna- tional economic relations-when they behave in such a manner. Nor can we engage in any serious and meaningful negotiations when there is distrust of our colleagues in the negotiations. 48. My delegation believes that, despite the failure at the special session to launch the global negotiations, we still have a reasonable opportunity at this current session to achieve that goal. However, a pre-condition of the success- i”ul achievement of the goal must be a genuine willingness and honest commitment on the part of all Governments to accept the urgent need to work earnestly and collectively for fundamental structural changes in the current international economic system, 49. For some countries this will mean the abandonment of certain entrenched positions which they currently hold. For others there must be a willingness to consider procedural devices which are in harmony with the content and spirit of General Assembly resolution 34/138. The resolution expli- citly states that the negotiations should proceed in a simul- taneous manner in order to ensure a coherent and integrated approach to the major issues ofraw materials, energy, trade, development, money and finance. The resolution further states that the negotiations should not involve any interrup- tion of, or have any adverse effect upon, the negotiations in other United Nations forums. 50. The proposals contained in the Chairman’s revised text on the procedures and time-frame for theglobal negoti- ations are clear. We believe that the fears and concerns expressed by those developed countries which have blocked a potential consensus on the paper arc unfounded. Contrary to the views expressed by them, the suggested procedures do not in any way seek to undermine or impair the integrity of any of the specialized agencies. Those agencies will still be involved in the negotiations in accordance with their respec- tive competence. ” ibid., Eieven~h Special Scsrion, Amrs~s. agenda item 7. document A/S-l l/25. pnras. 14-18. 52. It is certainly not beyond the ingenuity of us all to devise stratagems to solve problems which may superficially appear intractable. Surely there is a lesson to be learnt from the part played by the Commonwealth of nations in the negotiations which finally ensured the emergence of a free and independent Zimbabwe. During those negotiations, at the moment when hope of success appeared most forlorn, it was a fjnal initiative of frank and direct discussions by heads of Government themselves at Lusaka which broke the impasse and led to what is perhaps the most spectacular peace settlement of the decade. 53. Let us not, if we genuinely desire to make progress on the economic front, hesitate to adopt this precedent as a paraltel device, thus enabling world leaders, shielded from the public and the press, to exchange ideas, explain their uniclue difficulties and problems, reach compromises and advance proposals for solutions to problems without having to be troubled by adopting stances not likely to be taken by them in an open forum, In summary, my delegation wel- comes the initiative now being taken by the Governments of Austria, Canada and Mexico to arrange a meeting of repre- sentative heads of Government in an effort to achieve a breakthrough in the negotiations for the New International Economic Order. We stand ready to co-operate with all such efforts. 54. That the global round of negotiations has not been launched shoulcl not, however, blind us to the real but limited progress made in some areas of critical importance to the economies of the developing countries. Consensus on the international development strategy will help to minimize failure in other areas. Barbados stands ready to benefit, in common with other third-world countries, from the social content of the new strategy. Up to the present, the most important progress resulting from these negotiations has been the social content and aspects of the strategy. The unambiguous and positive attitude of the Group of 77 on social issues reflects the commitment of those countries to the betterment of their peoples. This social programme involves primary health care for all, provision of basic shel- ter, full employment, universal primary education and sub- stantial reduction in the incidence of infant mortality, among other things. 55. These are all goals to which my Government, in its domestic policies, has been consistently and successfully addressing attention and emphasis. We realize, however, that we are part of one world and that peace and progress are indivisible. A crisis anywhere can mean a crisis evcry- where. WC thcreforc welcome the deep concern over the grave and growing plight of the least developed of the developing countries and the measures being taken to alle- viate their situation. 57. My country’s aim is self-reliance. Independent and impartial observers comment regularly on my country’s efficient internal economic management. But for decades LO come the natural constraints of physical size and limited natural and human resources will make Barbados clepend- ent on external technical and financial assistance on very concessionary or grant terms. It is unreasonable to use the per capita income criterion as a yardstick of development when considering the aid needs of countries such as Barba- dos, for this has the effect of placing those countries in the same category as countries with the potential capacity 01 nuclear Powers or with undeveloped reservoirs of mineral hydrocarbon wealth and vast expanses of underdeveloped agricultural lands. 58. Is not this concept of GNP criteria now being used as another ruse on the part of developctl countries to drive a wedge between’small island developing countries with scem- ingly high per capita GNP and the least developed countries whose immediate needs for technical aid and financial assist- ance are genuinely critical? One category of States must not be sacrificed for another category of States, nor must the partial satisfying of 01x group of neecls be used to liustratc the necessary development objectives of another group 01 needy countries. Above all, in the face of these new assaults, developing countries must maintain their solidarity to demand more aid, not less. 59. For, whilst the economic situation of most third world countries has become precarious over the last decade, there has been no corresponding increase in official development assistance. Some donors have failed to accept or to achieve the United Nations target of transferring 0.7 per cent of theit GNP, in the form of concessionary funds, to third world countries. In other countries, the gap between actual transfers from the Development Assistance Committee of member countries of the Organization for Economic Co- operation and Development and their collective United Nations target has risen continually, Indeed, between 1974 and 1978, the gap has widened from $12.7 billion to$14 bil- lion in 1975, to $15.3 billion in 1976, to $18.5 billion in 1977 and to $21.6 billion in 1978. Other donors, with the excep- tion of the countries members of the Organization of Petro- leum Exporting Countries, have shown an even worse performance. In the case of the centraily planned econo- 60. With this ‘nonchalant approach must be contrasted the genuine concern and disinterestedness shown by some underdeveloped countries, such as Trinidad and Tobago, for the pressing needs of their neighbours. The Government of Barbados, like other Caribbean sister States, welcomes the far-sighted and magnanimous proposals made by Trin- idad and Tobago to provide for the financing of the incre- mental cost of petroleum products, fertilizers and asphalt to other States members of the Caribbean Community [CAR& COn/rl. Likewise, we consider the initiatives taken by the Governments of Mexico and Venezuela to give similar relief in relation to energy to some nine Caribbean and Central American States through their Energy Co-operation Pro- gramme as a bold and useful step, worthy of emulation, nmtatis mutandis, by developed countries. 61, Within the Caribbean there is one area of humanitar- ian need which cries out for this sort of immediate initiative by developed countries. Developing countries of the Carib- bean subregion, during the years from 197X to 1980, have seen the disruption of their economies, as they have had to deal with the additional burden of reconslruction after dev- astating disasters. Because of their size and limited resour- ces, Caribbean countries cannot each establish and maintain adequate machinery for disaster preparedness. We are grate- ful for such assistance as has been given to the region as a result of past disasters. But natural holocausts, such as volcanoes, hurricanes and floods, leave the adversely affected States with disrupted economies and the pressing need for long-term reconstruction of infrastructure and of their agricultural and industrial sectors. A region such as the Caribbean cannot by itself sustain such massive financing. We call upon the IJnited Nations and upon bilateral donors-particularly those with a favourable trade balance with the region such as the Federal Republic of Germany and Japan-to provide urgent, meaningful aid and to assist in setting up machinery which will be permanent and which will aim at responding to the region’s needs, should such disasters further befall us. 62, The tragedy of our times is that, despite the correct diagnosis of the ills confronting the world, nations continue to disregard the medicines and ignore the cures. There are pressing needs for more food, adequate supplies of energy, more shelter, wider education, better health care and ade- quate clothing. Daily, these basic human needs are being denied to 800 million poor in the third world whilst deve- loped countries fritter away resources on a build-up of arms. Barbados calls for the early and full implementation of str:jtegies for general and complete disarmament. This would at least release funds for the purpose ofdevelopment. It wouki also minimize the risk of war. 63. We regret that so many developing States are now themselves being likewise caught up in the whirlwind race 64. It is a cause of the deepest regret that it is the third world which provides today’s theatres of war. There is war in Afghanistan, There is war in Cyprus. There is war in Western Sahara. There is war in Palestine. In Ethiopia and in Lebanon there is war. In Iran and Iraq the cymbals of armaments fail to respond to the Security Council’s caII for peace. In our own interests, we third-world States must recognize that divisions within our societies and within our regions lead to victories only for those developed nations which sell US the implements of war, That is why Barbados appeals to all outside nations not to interfere in the conflict within the Persian Gulf and we join wit$ those urging Iran and Iraq to settle their dispute by peaceful means. 65. NOW more than ever there is need to abide by the principles of the Charter, particularly those which provide for the settlement of disputes by peaceful means, It is not that the Charter of this Organization is deficient; it is rather that some of US are honouring it more in the breach than in the observance. The Charter provides for non-intervention in the internal affairs of States, yet the Soviet Union persists in the occupation of Afghanistan. The Charter provides a procedure for settling disputes peacefully, yet Turkey per- sists in contributing to Ihe division of Cyprus, We trust that the recent moves by the Secretary-General to arrange talks between the two communities of Cyprus will at long last lead to a successful healing of the wounds of that country; for an undivided sovcrcign Cyprus provides the safest structure for maintaining the integrity of that State, 66. The Charter provides for self-determination. Yet, in the Sahara, Morocco, once itselfthe object of colonial subju- gation, misuses the lessons of history to reverse the process of freedom and deny the people of the Sahraoui Arab Democratic Republic its true independence. We call on Morocco to respect the Charter. 67. In Palestine, the clear solution is self-determination and a homeland for the people of the occupied territories. Israel loo must have the right to exist as a sovereign State within defined and secure boundaries, Within Ethiopia and Lebanon, outside interference must cease. Iran, in calling legitimately on Iraq to abide by the provisions of the Charter and withdraw from its territory, should itself set an example by complying with the resolutions passed by the Security Council on the release of the American hostages and shouId uphold the rule of law by honouring the rdillg of dxz International Court of Justice.‘” 68. Barbados is dedicated to the peaceful Settlement of aII international disputes in accordance with the principles of international law. That is why we have this year declared our acceptance of the compulsory jurisdiction of the Intem- tional Court of Justice. For acts of violence and terrorism are no real substitute for the rule of law. They can lead to the 69. As a signatory to a number of human rights treaties and conventions, Barbados is deeply disturbed by these trends in the international community. Wherever serious violations of fundamental human rights occur, even within our own little corner of the world, we will continue to speak out strongly against such violations. Even in the face of harsh criticism, we will continue to oppose, be it in the Caribbean or elsewhere, the imprisonment of people wifh- out trial, political assassinations or any form of denial of traditional fundamental rights, Barbados is alarmed at the authenticated daily incidents of the disappearance of large numbers of people in certain States in Latin America and the Caribbean. We are also concerned that hundreds of Asians and Africans are for political and sometimes racial reasons being denied their basic human rights. Barbados therefore urges the world community to turn itsattention to designing a strategy for the effective implementation of the United Nations human rights programme. For as man con- tinues to dehumanize his fellow man the United Nations must hasten to strengthen and extend its machinery for dealing with human rights questions. 70. The Secretary-General has reported on the increase in the number of human rights violations and the fact that questions of fundamental human rights have been put aside or deadlocked during the past year by political and eco- nomic expediency. We must therefore continue to support measures designed to improve the international machinery for the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms. We appeal to all States Members of this Organization to comply with the principles ofthe Char- ter and of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, We call upon them to support the struggle against all assaults on human dignity, such as economic and social ostracism, involuntary disappearance, arbitrary arrest and detention, torture and wanton murder. 71. The Barbados Government is also deeply distressed at the ever-growing and complicated problem of refugees and displaced persons. The Secretary-General’s report has focused on the African and Asian problem and the urgent demands for relief and rehabilitation ofdisplaced persons in those continents. In Latin America and the Caribbean also, the problem is assuming dangerous proportions. Barbados fully supports the Secretary-General’s comments on the need for a review of the emergency operations in the United Nations system. The problem of displaced persons now touches us all and needs the closest scrutiny of the world community so that appropriate strategies may be devised. We call upon those nations which have adequate physical resources to open their borders as first places ofasylum to all genuine refugees. We also call upon them not to discrimi- nate in this real hutnan tragedy and to desist from accepting or refusing refugees on the basis of their ethnic origin, 72. There are still those who continue to use the dchuman- izing practice of racism to rob the majority of the people of South Africa of the opportunity of participating effectively 73. That country persists in defying resolutions passed by this Assembly and the Security Council calling for the early independence of Namibia. Every nation other than South Africa is satisfied that the people of Namibia is entitled to self-determination and independence. Yet there is reluc- tance on the part of some countries to use the provisions of the Charter to enforce South African compliance with inter- national law. 74. The total eradication of colonialism will continue to demand of all of us persistent efforts as long as there exist those nations which,continue to advance unfounded claims in order to delay the inexorable process of decolonization. In Latin America and the Caribbean the legitimate right of the people of Belize to early independence within secure boundaries and with all their territory intact is still being thwarted, not by the metropolitan Power but by the neo- colonialist rCgime of Guatemala. Guatemala, like South Africa, persists in defying the clear terms of the resolutions of this Organization. Unless Guatemala is prepared to accept this Assembly’s resolutions, any attempted negotia- tions will fail, for Belize can never compromise on its sover- eignty or territorial integrity. At this thirty-fifth session, Barbados, in conjunction with friendly Caribbean, Com- monwealth and other countries, will seek this Assembly’s endorsement of a resolution calling on the administering Power to set an early date for the independence of Belize, before 3 1 Decetnber 198 1, and calling on this Organization and the administering Power to do whatever is necessary to ensure the continued existence ofan independent Belize. We feel sure that all right-thinking Member States will sponsor or support such a resolution. 75. The successful implementation of such a resolution will be a fitting way to mark the twentieth anniversary of General Assembly resolution 1514 (XV). That resolution is still a signal landmark in the history of decolonization. Within my region, the Caribbean, there is still much work to be done to achieve freedom for some of our brothers and sisters, who are still under colonial rule. But every step forward is an advance towards the promotion of human dignity and the realization of the full value ofman. We in the United Nations, particularly those of us in the third world, have travelled the long, bitter and hard-fought road to victory with the people of Zimbabwe. But truth, justice and freedom triumphed in the end. We warmly welcome the admission of Zimbabwe to this Organization. 76. The births of the new States of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Vanuatu are also real advances towards the full realization of the principle of self-determination. The admission of the sister State of Saint Vincent and the Grcna- dines to membership of this Organization is for us in Barba- dos and the Commonwealth Caribbean a source of special joy; but it is also a further realization of the equality of nations and of the universality of membership of the United Nations.

I should like, first of all, to extend to Ambassador von Wechmar, on behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and on my own behalf, sincere con- gratulations and best wishes on hiselection to the presidency of this Assembly. His task is no easy one, for at this time the international community is faced with a number of extremely serious problems. My delegation is sure, however, that his diplomatic skill and understanding will greatly assist in guiding us in our search for solutions to those myriad problems. 79. I should also like at this time to express my profound gratitude to the outgoing President for the able manner in which he conducted the deliberations of not only the regular session of the Assembly but also the three special sessions during the year in which he held office. His patience and tact did much to ensure the best results in very difficult circumstances. 80. My delegation wishes to pay a tribute to the Secretary- General and his staff for their tireless efforts in the pursuit of peace and harmony among the nations of the international community. Through you, Sir, I should like to pledge the support of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago for his continuing efforts in that direction. 8 1. In closing these words of greeting, I warmly welcome Zimbabwe to its first regular session of the General Assem- bly, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the newest entrant to this family. The accession to membership ofthose two States has been the source of immense satisfaction to the Government of Trinidad and Tobago: in the one case because we have watched the struggle of the people ol Zimbabwe, a struggle for freedom andjustice, and have seen history record the triumph of the principle of self- determination over oppression and have seen the tragic loss of lives of citizens of Zimbabwe in the struggle vindicated; in the other, because Saint Vincent is a sister Caribbean coun- try, with which the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago has close historical links, which we are confident will continue and be strengthened, as much through our regional integra- tion movement as through our participation in this Organi- zation and its agencies. 82. In that connection, there must and can be no further delay in the achievement of independence by the people of Belize, For too long have the aspirations of the people of Belize to self-determination and independence been obstructed by threats to the territorial integrity of their country, We,,repeat that the administering Power and all those nations with a real capability ta do so should take the measures within their competence to guarantee by all credi- 83. I indicated that the task of the President in presiding over the current session will not be an easy one. That is so because this Assembly is taking place at a time when nations are demonstrating more than ever before their inability to learn from the lessons of history. It is curious that the greatest tragedies of mankind, wars for colonial domination and world wars, tend to be regarded as the great landmarks of history. In our view, evidence of man’s creative genius should truly be history’s great landmarks. We have wit- nessed the extent of man’s creative genius in changing swords into ploughshares-in creating this body after des- truction, as a means ofensuringgreaterco-operation among sovereign nation States. In the affairs of nations, necessity is the progenitor of creativity. The scourge of war, like the scourge of pestilence and disease, has therefore impelled man in his own self-interest to co-operate with his fellow man. 84. Members will forgive me if I say that the perception of my delegation is that we are standing on the brink ofa crisis of unprecedented proportions. The fact is that in the face of this crisis we are squandering resources, squandering lives, squandering goodwill, and most distressing of all, squander- ing the opportunities that now exist: opportunities to build, to construct and to co-operate and so forestall the crisis or at least minimize its proportions. 85. Undoubtedly there exists a positive correlation between periods of progress, in the sense of social, economic and technological advancement, and periods of co- operation between nations. Such an analysis can only serve to underline the imperative need for universal solidarity in this decade and beyond. The United Nations provides a forum for such co-operation. 86. What is the present level of economic development in the third world? It is characterized by malnutrition, high unemployment, absence of safe water supplies, poor hous- ing, high levels of illiteracy, short li,le expectancy: in short, an absence of most of the basic needs for survival. Such tangi- ble evidence of suffering constitutes cold economic indica- tors which tell their own story. 87. Protectionist measures in developed countries have increased; the terms of trade of developing countries in general have deteriorated: official development assistance by developed countries as a percentage of GNP has declined; the economies of third world countries have become characterized by slow growth rates, high inflation, vast current account deficits and external debts that have reached alarming proportions. Yet the just call by the devel- oping countries for a fundamental change in the existing world economic order-i’ prerequisite for progress in the field of international economic co-operation-has elicited increasingly negative responses from the developed nations. 88. Even the most optimistic among us will accept that the recently concluded eleventh special session of the General Assembly has failed. The two principal items on the agenda of that special session, first, the preparation of a new Inter- 89. Another chapter in the long list of failures: the fifth session of UNCTAD, the United Nations Conference on Science and Technology for Development, held at Vienna, the Third General Conference of UNIDO, and the work of the Committee of the Whole, In addition, there has been the signal failure on the part of some developed countries to adhere to principles recognized by the overwhelmingmajor- ity of the international community as being necessary to safeguard the common heritage of mankind. 90. It is the view of my delegation that a most fundamental contribution which can be made in this Organization towards satisfying the need for human solidarity in the 1980s and beyond lies in the opportunity to make available the benefits of scientific technological advance to developing countries on terms that will bridge rather than widen thegap between the industrialized North and the developing South. 91. On 6 May 1980, the third session of the United Nations Conference on an International Code of Conduct on the Transfer of Technology ended in failure, leaving unresolved the major outstanding issues. The Conference failed because many of its participants were not prepared to exercise the “political will and flexibility” which the General Assembly had urged on Member States in resolution 34/195. The major issues remained unresolved because those who could contribute to their solution have, in concert with the trans- nationals registered under their jurisdiction, refused to do so. Over three sessions of the Conference, the interests of transnationals have been supported and defended by those countries which continue to ignore and defy the will and interest of those many members of the international com- munity. We all nevertheless recognize that the transfer and acquisition of technology on just and equitable terms are basic to the achievement of the New International ECO- nomic Order. 92. It is not only in the area of a code of conduct for the transfer of technology that the interests of transnationals have been obdurately advanced by those who support them. The entire panorama of their operations cOntimleS t0 reveal an over-all insensitivity to the interests and demands of the weaker and poorer peoples of the world. Indeed, at times, their operations threaten to consume not only the small States on which they feed, but also to destroy the real interest and goodwill of the States that offer them parental protection. Some of these transnationals continue to refuse to deal with small States whose sovereigll reSOUrCes they 93. The poorer and weaker countries of the world must resist this and seek together to devise mechanisms to eradi- cate the bases of these practices. The Government of Trin- idad and Tobago is convinced of the positive and practical role that science and technology can and must play today if there are to be any better prospects for change in the interna- tional economic situation. 94. The Government of Trinidad and Tobago will con- tinue to participate in every forum in which these issues are raised and will contribute in every way it can to redressing the existing imbalances, many of which derive from the traditional operations of transnationals. The Government shares the view of those countries of the Group of 77 that believe that legislation should be enacted on the national level in respect of the transfer of technology as one measure in the struggle to achieve a balanced and independent rela- tionship with transnationals and those whose ultimate inter- ests they serve. The Government of Trinidad and Tobago is in fact considering such legislative measures at this very moment. 95. The failure to make progress in this area is most significant because outdated and inappropriate technology in developing countries will continue to frustrate efforts at development even if rapid changes are effected in the three other important areas identified for the establishment of the New International Economic Order. 96. Those three major areas are themselves interdepend- ent and closely related. First, it is necessary to have a com- prehensive reform of the framework governing international trade so as to ensure that it facilitates and promotes the restructuring of the international division of labour in line with the growing industrial potential of developing coun- tries and the shift in the comparative advantage of industry towards them. Here I need only mention the failure of the fifth session of UNCTAD and draw attention to the frustra- tions experienced by the developing countries on the Trade and Development Board when seeking to implement some of the resolutions adopted at Manila last year. 97. The second major area that has been identified for reform concerns the international monetary and financial system, in which there is urgent need for the evolution of a new global monetary and financial framework that is fully responsive to the needs of the developing world. In this regard the South-North Conference on the International Monetary System and the New International Order, which was held at Arusha from 30 June to 3 July of this year, provided an opportunity for both the North and the South to consider proposals for a radical restructU,ring of the international monetary system SO as to secure mori equita- ble participation by all States members of the international 98. My delegation is fully aware that fundamental trans- formation can take place only over a period of time, given the spirit of co-operation between the industrial countries and the third world. It is for that reason that my delegation lends its support to the urgent transitional measures within the framework of IMF which were suggested for immediate implementation pending the building of a new monetary order, 99. First, IMF should be equipped and prepared to finance third world deficits that are the result of serious and disciplined efforts at development and structural change. The conditions attached to such financing must reflect the sovereign right of States to choose their own social and economic models and developmental paths. 100. Secondly, access to a higher credit charge of IMF should be guided by unambiguous recognition that a large part of the third world deficits is due to factors for which third world countries are not responsible and over which they have no control. 101. Thirdly, the compensatory financing facility of IMF should be expanded, with low conditionality, to deal with external shock deficits of the third world. The facility should be related to the size of the externally induced deficit and not to the quota of a country in IMF. 102. Fourthly, the special drawing rights of IMFshould be made the principal reserve asset, and the role of national currencies in international settlements should be effectively reduced. Finally, a mechanism of appeal and international arbitration independent of IMF should be set up to deal with disputes between the Fund and member countries seeking access to such funds. 103. The third major area in which change is needed is the field of economic co-operation among developing countries, based on the principle of collective self reliance, which should constitute a dynamic and vital component of an effective global strategy. 104. Resolution 127 (V), which was adopted by UNCTAD at Manila on 3 June 1979, urged the developed countries and the international organizations to “provide appropriate support and assistance to the pro- cess and activities of economic co-operation among developing countries, notably in fulfilment of the rele- vant resolutions or the General Assenibly and of UNCTAD, bearing in mind the Arusha Action Plan . , , .“” 105. Another opportunity has been lost since the assist- ance and support measures requested were not forthcoming from the developed countries when the devclopingcountries introduced draft resolution TD/B/C.7/L.91Z calling for those support measures. That leads me seriously to question 11 See proceedings of tftc United Nations Conference on Trade and Deve/opment, Fijtft Session, vol. I, Report and Attnexe~ (Unite<1 Nations publication, Sales No. E.79.II.D.l4), part one, Sect. A. 106. To deny assistance to and withhold benefits from countries which find themselves in dire need is one thing, but to take unilateral action based on totally spurious grounds in such a way as to deprive countries of their shared patri- mony represents a level of violation of the rights of nations and peoples that is totally unacceptable. Yet that is the direction which international political affairs seem to have taken over the past year or so. 107. In respect of the law of the sea, my delegation is hopeful that the final working session of the Third United Nations Conference on the Law of the Sea, in 1981, will find the industrialized countries demonstrating a spirit of com- promise and accommodation, as did the Group of 77 at the session concluded recently. My delegation wishes, however, to express its deep regret that, notwithstanding the spirit of goodwill and understanding shown by the majority, one or two Governments have found it necessary to act in such a way as to abridge the rights of all mankind by purporting to authorize their nationals to expIore and exploit the riches of the deep sea-bed outside any generally accepted interna- tional legal framework. 108. The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago wishes to give notice that it considers the enactment of such unilateral legislation to be inadmissible under exist- ing international law since it is a derogation of a peremptory norm of international law-namely, that the sea-bed and the ocean floor beyond national jurisdiction are the com- mon heritage of mankind. The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago herewith registers in the strongest possible terms its protest at such enactments and declares that it does not recognize the competence of any one to exercise rights over the areas of the sea-bed on the basis of so-called traditional freedom of the high seas. 109. My delegation notes that the lessons of history have not been learnt. Individual acts of aggression the consequen- ces of which, in terms of human suffering, were known, have been prosecuted in complete disregard of that suffering. 110. In the Middle East, the international community has witnessed the absence of any meaningful progress towards realizing the inalienable and imprescriptible right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and national inde- pendence. Recent events demonstrate a degree of intransi- gence and an unwillingness to recognize that fulfilment of the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian Arab people is central to the achievement of a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, My delegation reaffirms its firm support for the Security Council resolutions that have laid down an internationally acceptable framework for a just and honour- able settlement and urges all parties to the conflict to resolve through peaceful means this issue which constitutes a threat to the peace and stability of the world and to accept the fact that the Palestine Liberation Organization must also have a role in any meaningful negotiations. 111, At this very moment and in defiance of the world community, in defiance of the relevant decisions and resolu- tions of the Security Council and the General Assembly and, ing our continuing efforts not only to ensure that Namibia is freed of the South African yoke but also to hasten the day of freedom itself for the majority of the people of South Africa. The evil of apartheid must be exorcised. 112. The international community and its constituent members, if they are to avoid a totally unmanageable and uncontrollable international situation with the attendant breakdown of those values on which international relations were founded, must look beyond the narrow and constrict- ing confines of the all-consuming national interest, andseek to take in concert such action as will realize the broader demands ofall peoples to live in peace with their neighbours, assured of their security from external aggression and confi- dent that respect for their sovereignty, political indepen- dence and territorial integrity is genuinely safeguarded. Such are the responsibilities we all share, and such is the respect for internationally accepted principles which must be observed if this imperative need for human solidarity in the 1980s and beyond is ever to be realized. 113. Trinidad and Tobago has resisted all promptings from within its own national boundaries and from outside to interfere in the domestic affairs of other States. This does not mean, however, that Trinidad and Tobago is not mind- ful of the need to co-operate to the extent of its capabilities with its friends and neighbours, while at the same time guarding jealously its own sovereign independence. 114. Trinidad and Tobago, as a small developing country, dependent on limited reserves of a non-renewable source of energy-petroleum and natural gas-has sought to find ways and means through which the advantages that posi- tively accrue to the people of Trinidad and Tobago as a result of the current favourable international market condi- tions for those resources can be shared in a beneficial way with the peoples in the Caribbean subregion, I say without any suggestion of self-congratulation that the effort which the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago makes in this regard in terms of the size of its economy and in the current absence of resource security, far exceeds the contributions being made by many industrialized countries which have pledged to commit 0.7 per cent of their gross national product as official development assistance and have consistently failed to attain this modest mark. When one considers that these same industrialized countries are pursuing proposals to coerce small developing countries like Trinidad and Tobago to accept ever-increasing burdens for the receipt of UNDP assistance through the adoption of new criteria for allocat- ing indicative planning figures, in order to decrease their own already, in some cases, diminishing contributions, one questions whether the industrialized countries are really serious about making any meaningful contribution to third world countries. 11% I should like to emphasize here that my delegation strongly rejects these attempts and would hope that others I3 Legal Consequences for Stales of the continued presence of South Africa in Namibia (South Wes/ AjFica) notwirhslanding Security Council Resolurion 276 (1970), Advisor)! Opinion, I.C.1. Reporrs 1971, p, 16. 116. Trinidad and Tobago has created an oil facility which is available to countries in the region that have been OUI traditional trading partners. This facility provides for the financing of the incremental cost of petroleum products, fertilizers and asphalt to States members of CARICOM. The financing of the incremental cost is applicable only where the products are supplied from Trinidad and Tobago and market prices as of 1 January 1979 are used as the base prices against which the incremental cost will be estimated, The facility, which became effective on 1 January 1980, is geared towards ameliorating balance of payments diffcul- ties in the immediate future in the CARICOM countries by reducing the amount of foreign exchange to be disbursed in payment for petroleum products. To this end, the terms of the loan assistance are structured so as to maximize the net transfer of foreign exchange in the near term and, at the same time, to keep maximum debt repayment at a level which the beneficiary countries can be reasonably expected to service with the growth of their economies over the medium and longer term. A maturity of I5 years, therefore, has been proposed for the repayment of loans with grace periods of three years at an interest rate of 3 per cent in the case of the more developed countries of CARICOM, and in the case oi’the less cleveloped countries of CARICOM al an annual interest rate of 2 per cent, with interest capitalized during the grace period in all cases. 117. Under the facility, financial assistance will be of a purely programme type and in this way it is expected that the speed and magnitude of the resource transfer will not be hindered by project preparation capability which is a major restraint to the disbursement of loan funds already available. 118. The international community is at the moment tak- ing steps to establish a new communication and informat& order. The Government of Trinidad andTobago recognizes that a free and responsible press is an essential feature of a democratic society. I wish, however, to reiterate that each Government and State has the right to determine its own national priorities based on acceptable international stand- ards, from which there can be no derogation. It follows, therefore, that whenever attempts are made by national 01 transnational entities to subvert those priorities or derogate from those standards, such attempts must bc vigorously resisted. 119. In conclusion, I should like to enjoin others to return to fundamental principles and to reconsider and rcaflirtn those principles of co-operation on which this Organization is based. I use the expression co-operation as the antithesis of conflict and discord, which are forces of destruction. I remain convinced that the hour is not too late, that in spite of the perceptible slow-down in effort over the last year, real progress can still be made. Indeecl, we have maclc some progress in the past, small imperceptible steps towards our goal of a more just, more equitable, more humane interna- tional community. But the road ahead is long and fraught with many perils. We must continue to persevere. 121. As one who knows and greatly admires the important role played by his country in international affairs, I am not merely extending a courtesy in expressing our firm convic- tion that, under his leadership and guidance, the delibera- tions of this General Assembly will be particularly fruitful. 122, Let me also take this opportunity to express our gratitude to Mr. Salim A. Salim of the United Republic of Tanzania for his dedication and energy in serving the inter- national cause. Our warm greetings go as well to the Secretary-General, whose efficiency in the discharge of the complex duties of his high office have earned him our deepest respect. 123. I wish to reiterate my delegation’s satisfaction at the recent accession to membership of this Organization by the Republic of Zimbabwe, which has resolved a problem that had occupied the attention of the United Nations for many years. Costa Rica also takes this opportunity to wish a warm welcome to our sister country, Saint Vincent and the Grena- dines, as a new Member of our Organization. 124. The General Assembly is gathered at a time of hopes and apprehensions. On the heels of the old conflicts which the Organization has been endeavouring to solve, others have followed which are equally grave and which conjure up a picture of grave dangers-dangers about which the Secretary-General has spoken with particular clarity in his report on the work of the Organization [A/35//1]. 125. Although the political, economic and social problems of the third world continue to deteriorate daily, we have brought to this General Assembly the conviction that dia- logue and perseverance in negotiations constitute the only way to reach the solutions we are seeking, Since the found- ing of the Organisation, my country has faithfully upheld its principles and fulfilled its commitments. Today more than ever we believe in the fundamental importance ofthis forum for the dignified and peaceful existence of all peoples. 126. My Govermnent has examined with great concern the serious problems facing the international community, and Costa Rica wishes in this respect to set forth its position before this Assembly. 127. We view with particular concern the developments which have taken place this year in the Latin American region, to which we belong for historical,geopolitical, cultu- ral and economic reasons. Despite serious economic, politi- cal and social problems which have generated an unprecedented climate of violence in the region, we hold fast to the optimistic view that the peoples and Governments of the countries concerned will prove rqual to finding viable solutions to these problems, which constitute the cause and the consequence ofthe developments I have referred to. We believe that the process of democratic renewal which is arduously but steadily gaining ground in the sister republic of El Salvador will, in the near future, yield positive results. 129. We look forward with particular interest and opti- mism to the early conclusion ofpeace agreements between the kindred peoples of Honduras and El Salvador and we have offered our assistance in seeking a final and conclusive solution. 130. I should like now to turn to those issues which are endangering world peace and security, such as the situation in the Middle East, which continues to be one of the most disquieting on the world scene. The Government and the people of Costa Rica observe with concern the excessive tensions which have been mounting in that part of the world. We are firmly convinced that WC must begin to focus upon that problem from a universal vantage point, with a view to world peace and international justice as our primary aims. Any sincere initiative which seeks to reduce tension and to create zones of peace will accordingly receive our support. We believe that when international problems take on dangerous proportions, the community of nations should discard inflexible positions and adopt attitudes con- ducive to achieving stable and true peace. 131. We have on repeated dccasions presented our stand in defence of the rights of the Palestinian people to self- determination and sovereignty and to the establishment of their own sovereign State on the territory which was set aside for them by the United Nations. WC recognize the right of the Palestinian people to participate in negotiations which affect their future through representatives chosen by them. At the same time, we recognize the right of the State of Israel to peaceful existence within stable and secure boundaries. 132. We believe that the quest for peace should encompass every kind of activity directed towards relieving tensions and that it is necessary to take initiatives which are not initiatives of belligerance. 133. In resolution 478 (1980) of 20 August, the Security Council called upon Member States with diplomatic mis- sions at Jerusalem to withdraw them promptly from the Holy City in order not to give official character Lo a unilat- eral act lacking the approval of the General Assembly which could aggravate tensions in the area, My country, scrupu- lously compling with the recommendations of the Security Council and with a view to averting a worsening of the situation, responded to the Council’s request. 134. While recognizing that the Palestinian question is the heart of the Middle East problem, we feel that the problem as a whole may perhaps be more easily dealt with if, agree- 135. Israel is the only State created by the General Assem- bly. It is probable, paradoxically, that the Palestinian State will be the second. The two States will be neighbours. Is it not possible then to begin conversations at once in order to prepare for that eventuality? Both States, with the human and material resources they possess, could be sources of progress and stability for the region. 136. Costa Rica has also with great concern been follow- ing the conflict between Iran and Iraq, which constitutes a very dangerous aggravation of the situation in the Middle East. We, in unison with the Security Council and practi- calIy all the other Member States, also call for the immediate cessation of hostilities so that an honourable peace may be negotiated between those two States. We applaud the atti- tude taken by the United States and the Soviet Union of not intervening in this conflict, thus contributing to keeping it isolated and preventing it from further endangering world peace. 137. This Assembly is aware that a lasting peace in the Korean peninsula is essential to the maintenance ofstability in north-east Asia and that it has, in turn, implications for world peace. It is for this reason that the Government of Costa Rica takes the view that no effort must be spared to *eauce Ill tne region. 138. We believe that dialogue between the two parts of the Korean peninsula is the most positive way to relieve tensions and that it is the way to enable the two parties directly concerned to solve their problems, including the important question of peaceful unification, without outside interfer- cnce. In present circumstances, my delegation firmly believes that the most constructive way in which the General Assembly could contribute to the solution of the question of Korea would bc co-operation designed to create the proper atmosphere in which to encourage a dialogue between North and South. Consequently, we call for the continua- tion of the dialogue in the spirit set forth in the South-North Joint Communique of 4 July 1972. If substantial progress were to be achieved at the present level, this could lead to eventual contacts at the highest level to the benerit ofall. The time has come to urge and promote an independent dia- logue between the two parties concerned, 139. My Government cannot shirk the moral obligation incumbent upon it to speak on the situation in Afghanistan. For nearly a year, the invading troops which occupy that country have continued to disregard the will of the majority of the international community which, by resolution ES-6/2 adopted by the General Assembly at its sixth emergency special session, called for the withdrawal of the foreign troops from Afghanistan. Everyone knows that the troops occupying that country are still there, and, for the present, no political solution to the problem is in sight, To the contrary, the f’oreign forces grow stronger every day, thus denying the fundamental right of self-determination to a martyred people. 141. We condemn the illegal occupation of Namibia by South Africa, whose obstinate position of disregard for repeated resolutions of the General Assembly and other United Nations bodies constitutes a flagrant violation of its duties as a member of the international community. As we have stated on other occasions, it is time for the General Assembly to recommend, and the Security Council to adopt, stricter measures and even enforcement action toend the occupation that, aside from being illegal, constitutes an open challenge to the mandate of the United Nations in a Territory that was placed under the jurisdiction of the Organization to guarantee its firm and prompt accession to independence. 142. The situation in South-East Asia remains one of the most tense for international peace and security. Serious developments in Kampuchea have had negative repercus- sions on several countries in the arca, and the problem of refugees, as a consequence of the invasion of Kampuchea by foreign forces, remains unresolved, despite the best cllorts ol the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the economic co-operation of the many countries which have contributed generously to the effort to alleviate in part the hunger and suffering attendant upon the displacement of entire populations involved in the conflict. My delegation hopes that a speedy solution will be sought for the sake of‘ thousands and thousands of innocent victims. 143. On 27 September 1978, the President of the Republic of Costa Rica, Mr. Rodrigo Carazo Odio, set forth before the General Assembly for its consideration his proposal to establish a University for Peace. IJ It is a well-known fact that the General Assembly accepted by consensus, in 1978, the draft proposing the study of this question [resolutiort 33/109] and that in 1979 it approved the idea of the estab- lishment of the University for Peace [~solurion 34/l 111 and set up an international Commission to prepare the structure and organization of the institution and set it in motion. The Commission, under the co-ordination of Mr. Rafael Cal- dew, former President of Venezuela, met twice this year, once at Headquarters and the second time at San .Jos& Costa Rica, and adopted a reportIs which has been submit- ted to the Secretary-General in which it recommends to the General Assembly that it adopt the proposal for the estab- lishment of’ this academic centre, together with a draft char- ter for the University and a draft agrcemcnt layingdown the procedures for its creation, which, in conformity with the provisions of resolution 34/111, are to be considered by this General Assembly. -- 152. At that Congress the President of Costa Rica pro- posed three initiatives, which I shall summarize as follows. 145, At the threshold of the twenty-first century, mankind cannot neglect any prospect for peace. My country’s initia- tive seeks to contribute in some measure to that end. We must resolve to forestall any hint of viofence, any form of war, for the perils of a new world war could spell the last conflict in the history of mankind. We hope therefore that our initiative may prove an effective instrutnent in the pur- suit of total peace which will allow mankind to live free from strife and ensure the stability of our world, 153. First, UNESCO and other institutions devoted to education for peace throughout the world should pool their efforts to prepare an immediate, interdisciplinary plan of action encompassing all levels of education, informal pat- terns of education and the complex phenomena of commu- nication, With that end in view, the University for Peace is being formed in order to take an active part in the process. 146. The world is in a state of crisis-the crisis ofdevclop- ment, the crises resulting from ideological clashes, the crises born of fanaticism. Today, more than ever before, mankind is caught in a dilemma: to survive with justice and liberty or to fall victim to the varieties of totalitarianism, to armed conflicts and to violence. 154. Secondly, serious consideration should be given to the suggestion of the Secretary-General’” that one tenth of 1 per cent of the resources utilizcd in the military sector should be earmarked for purposes or education for peace. 155. Thirdly, given the urgency of the situation, and in the conviction that education plays a central role in the attain- ment of peace, it is proposed that the years 1980 to 1990 bc declared the decade ofeducation for peace, and that in view of the close links between human rights,education for peace and disarmament, the right to peace should be recognized and proclaimed a fundamental human right. 147. War is a pressing danger. Mankind is living through crucial times and no country, region or area is more impor- tant than another, measured by the contribution that each can and should make to achieve peace. Nations, whatcvel their size, geographical location, language, history, race or religion, have an important role to play in maintaining universal harmony and in ensuring the survival of’ mankind. No one, therefore, can relegate States toa passive role in this undertaking. Large or small, they have a dynamic mission to fullil in the quest I‘or new avenues to peace. 156. Recent negotiations on international economic issues have demonstrated the difficulty of modifying the existing international economic order. The tenuous results of the eleventh special session of the General Assembly held here recently clearly indicate the developed countries’ aversion to sharing in any restructuring of this obsolete economic order. 148, In this conviction, my Government urges the General Assembly to adopt the proposal for the establishment ofthe University for Peace. An initiative such as this enhnnccs the fundamental principles of the San Francisco Charter as well as the dignity of the members of this Assembly that approved the idea by consensus at the last session. 157. Although the struggle to transform the conditions prevailing in the world economy and to stem the crisis which it is undeigoing is both difficult and time-consuming, we believe that, given perseverance and unity in action, new ideas can be brought to fruition. We are convinced of the need to establish a new international economic order. The present order, built upon in.justice, is an indictment against us all. From conviction to a political decision there is a long road to travel. WC, the countries of the third world, must make that journey in our struggles. 149. We are grateful for the interest shown by the Secretaj-General, the efficiency of his staff, the dynamic spirit shown by the members of the international Commis- sion, and the enthusiastic support of tnany Governments for this project. 150. In the conviction that no hindrance can relieve us of the historic responsibility of furthering peace, the Govern- ment of Costa Rica will continue resolutely to pursue this undertaking, conlident as we are that the University for Peace will provide a mainstay for the realization ofthe noble principles enshrined in the Charter. 158. Because WC are certain of the effectiveness and neces- sity of joint action, we have been pursuing a policy of real and effective solidarity with the developing countries, Our efforts have been aimed not only at promoting a united front of developing countries but also at fostering, together with our Latin American and Caribbean brothers, practical means to bring our peoples closer together by strengthening plans for integration and specific programmes of assistance of many kinds with a view to fostering what is termed the “South-South dialogue”. 151. The President of Costa Rica, Mr. Rodrigo Carazo Odio, delivered the inaugural address on 9 June this year to the World Congress on Education f‘or Disarmament, heldat UNESCO headquarters, and it is worth-while to recall some of his words. Among tnany ideas of special interest to this Assembly, he said: “War and peace in the coming years will depend upon the pursuit of thearms race or of disarmament, but abc& 160. We wish to place on record our thanks to the delega- tion of India for the effective manner in which it acted as chairman and spokesman ofthc Group of77 during the year ending 30 September last, and for the dedication, skill and dynamic commitment with which it discharged its difficult task. 161. At the same time, my delegation wishes to express its satisfaction at the election of our sister republic of Venezuela to the presidency of the Group of 77 during the year begin- ning 1 October 1980. We are sure that the Venezuelan delegation will discharge its commitment with equal distinc- tion and dedication. 162. Among oil-producing countries, Mexico and Vene- zuela have been, the first to take the pioneering step of using petroleum as an instrument in negotiations designed to build a new international economic order and of proposing that petrodollars be recycled in such a way as to benefit the developing countries. These two countries have contributed in a spirit of solidarity, a significant percentage of their oil earnings to the development of other third-world countries, including my own. 163. Convinced of the efficacy and necessity of concerted action, we have commended the policy of solidarity of the kindred nations of Mexico and Venezuela with the develop- ing world-a policy embodied in the Joint Declaration signed at San Jose, Costa Rica, on 3 August this year by the two heads of State, benefiting Costa Rica and the other countries of Central America and the Caribbean by ensur- ing the supply of hydrocarbons to the region through new mechanisms of co-operation and financing. 164. It was felt in Latin America that this agreement bridged the gap between words and deeds in international relations. The hope was expressed that actions such as this would be emulated throughout the world, as a sign of active solidarity among sister countries, and that this exemplary attitude might serve as a model to other petroleum- producing countries in their relations with non-petroleum- producing countries which are their clients. 165. It is well known that the question ofcomtnunications has come increasingly to the fort in international affairs. Costa Rica is of the view that the impact ofcommunications upon modern man is growing daily and that it is of the greatest importance that the States Members of the United Nations give early consideration to the possibility ofplacing organizations such as the International Telecommunica- tions Union on a sound footing upon which to face the demands of our times. 166. As a technical-political factor, communications have their basis in the natural right of every human being to communication. Principles such as that of “first come, first served” in the allocation of frequenciks are unacceptable at this stage in history. We also regret the disagreetnents which arise between United Nations bodies with regard to com- 168. Costa Rica, together with other delegations, gave its support to the inclusion of the principle of the utilization or the sea for peaceful purposes. This principle, we feel, will contribute to international peace and security. The Govern- ment of Costa Rica also welcotnes the inclusion of the principle of good faith in the discharge of the rights and duties arising out of this convention, as well asa recognition ofjus cogens with respect to the rules governing the common heritage of mankind. However, my Government is con- cerned by the fact that it proved impossible for the sponsors of the various proposals to arrive at a consensus text on the delimitation of maritime boundaries between adjacent States or those facing each other. The international corn- munity should give serious thought to this matter. 169. After so many years of enormous efforts, we are finally able to consider in its entirety the structure of the code of the sea, which shall in truth constitute one of the most comprehensive and important legal instruments in history and a basis for peaceful and harmonious relations among nations. Costa Rica deplores the enactment of uni- lateral legislation in this sphere by certain developed coun- tries, which have hampered delicate negotiations aimed at achieving a convention which will equitably regulate the exploitation of the resources of the sea. I hope that, at the next and final session, consensus can be reached on this and other outstanding issues so that we can proceed to the signing of the convention at Caracas, Venezuela. 170. The international situation in the field of human rights is not overly encouraging. The persistent and flagrant violation ol’these rights-inherent in the human person-is in many cases the cause, and in others, the consequence of international contlicts. Respect for human rights is tllc corner-stone of peace and harmony among all the world’s peoples. Costa Rica, which has made a credo of compliance with and promotion of human rights, is well aware that the best weapon against subversion and social unrest is respect for human dignity. Only to the extent that the individual’s rights are respected and that justice is done him, will there be peace and harmony among peoples. 171. Human rights cannot be confined to civil and poliri- cal rights, but must also include economic, social and cultu- ral rights. It is thus evident that human dignity will not bc fully achieved with the mere enunciation or implementation of the traditional political and civil rights. The development of peoples must be intimately linked with human liberation. Only in this way can WC achieve the aim of full respect for the dignity of the individual, which requires the simultaneous observance of civil, political, economic and cultural rights. 172. Unfortunately, the elaboration of effective instru- ments for the promotion and defence of human rights has 179. The process of decolonization-a concrete result of the exercise of the right of self-determination of peoples, which is one of the foundations of the United Nations-is almost a completed task. The process will be effective only if freedom is accompanied by a decent standard of living. Hence, any effort by the international community to assist its new members in their economic and social development is not only advisable, but commendable. 173. Costa Rica has the honour ofbeingrepresentcd by its President, Mr. Rodrigo Carazo Odio, who was invited to that historic meeting by the distinguishecl head of State of the sister republic of Ecuador. He took that opportunity to add the voice of our country in support of the ideals and principles which were reiterated and strengthened. Costa Rica continues to have faith in them and it maintains a sustained interest in the idea of the creation of the post of United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, 180. My Government supports and will continue to sup- port all just struggles aimed at giving effect to the right of self-determination within the framework ofGenera Assem- bly resolutions 1514 (XV) and 1541 (XV), which have guided and sustained the process of decolonization; it is now 20 years since they were adopted. We maintain as a matter of principle that it is up to the peoples themselves to exercise their right to seIf-determination, and that no State or group of States can or should assume the role ofa champion of the liberation of peoples without the consent of those peoples. Accordingly, it is our view that the sole and legitimate repository of the right to self-determination is the people, and that no one should deny it, or impose on it, the exercise of this sacred right. 174. Having heard the many positive statements oi’speak- ers who have preceded me during this general debate, my delegation is encouraged to continue to advocate that idea. 175. One of the issues which causes us the greatest concern is that of refugees, an historical phenomenon which has in recent times reached unprecedented proportions. It can be said that there is not a region in the world today which is not facing this problem and even Central America, which has in the past been a land of refuge for victims of persecution from every continent, has now become a land of refugees, thus converting a noble tradition into a sorrowful experience which affects the destiny and future of thousands of men, women and children, who arc more often than not innocent. A few months ago, in order to resolve an unprecedented crisis in the Caribbean, my country provided a bridge for thousands of refugees to gain access to the freedom for which they longed. This undertaking, of which we kept the Secretary-General of this Organization constantly apprised, was a humanitarian gesture devoid of any political intent and aimed solely at mitigating the suffering of many human beings, We hope that members of the international com- munity will hasten to the aid of refugees wherever they may be, but above all we hope that future problems of this kind will be avoided. This can be achieved only if all parties to a connict accept and abide by the most clcmcntary rules of international law, which afford protection to civilians even in time of war. 181. Year after year all our delegations gather at this Assembly to discuss the increasingly dire perils to which the nuclear Powers have condemned mankind. At a time when the economic and social situation in the world is one of stagnation and decline, we observe in studies, in statistics, in the reports of the Secretary-General and in the statements of Foreign Ministries the world over a single trend that is for ever on the upswing: that of the military expenditure and budgets of the great Powers and the growth of nuclear arsenals. 182. We have observed also that the technology which makes the most rapid strides is the technology of war, the technology of destruction. Countries such as my own, the countries of the third world, beset for so long by countless economic and social problems, look on with concern as the arms race becomes the only area ofcompetition between the great Powers. 176. We must once again reiterate our categorical rejec- tion and firm condemnation of racism in all its forms, especially that which adds insult to crime by seeking to institutionalize itself as a system, as has happened with apar?heid in South Africa. 183. There arc few who rise up against this tendency and their voices are not listened to. What more can be said at this stage, except to re-emphasize the urgency of stifling that irrational urge to increase and refine instruments ofdestruc- tion and taking stock of the extreme gravity of the situation we face? 177. When we speak of apartlzeid we have nothing new to add, but we should consider the time that has been devoted in the United Nations to clenouncing one of the most mon- strous political ideologies mankind has known, and one of the political systems most incompatible with humanity that has ever been devised. I should like once again to express OUI solidarity with the views reiterated here by the representa- tives of African States. For their peoples, the struggle against upnrtheid is no political slogan, but a vindication of their humanity, 184. Costa Rica, in conformity with its pacifist convic- tions, believes that only reconciliation and peace can open the way to progress for our peoples. It is time that decision- makers throughout the world took cognizance of the issues which year after year have been the object of the attention of this Organization, issues to which no one is indifferent and which are the concern of all peoples. 186. Costa Rica has submitted for the consideration of the GroLiP of Latin American States its candidature for the seat corresponding to the region in the Security Council which will become vacant at the conclusion of the two-year term served by Jamaica in 1979-1980. 187. The group of Latin American States has not been able so far, by following its established practice, to reach a decision in this regard, as there are two candidates for a single scat. Consequently the problem may have to be resolved in the General Assembly by a vote taken according to the procedure laid down in the Charter of the United Nations. 188. Costa Rica has vigorously argued that the non- permanent members of the Security Council should not only belong to the respective regions, as provided in Article 23 of the Charter, article 143 of the rules of procedure of the General Assembly and resolution 1991 A (XVIII), but, precisely in order to give effect to the principle of equitable geographical distribution set forth in the first ofthose provi- sions, should also represent their respective regions objec- tively and subjectively and should consequently be chosen and proposed to the General Assembly by their regional groups, 189. We have submitted our candidature to the Security Council in the first place because it is our conviction that at least under the circumstances now prevailing in Latin Amer- ica and the Caribbean-the two being inseparably linked by common traditions, history, problems and aspirations- Costa Rica is objectively in the best possible position to rcproscnt, in the best and fullest sense, the interests and views c,f the region as a whole. My country not only is at the geogr;~phical centre of the Americas but also occupies the centre position among the diverse rkgimes which make up the vast political spectrum of our continent. It is at the centre also ol‘ the various ideological currents in the Americas and at the centre of the continent’s different economic realities, starlditlg as it does between the weakest and least developed countries and those which are gaining entry to the group of the rich and powerful. It is at the centre of America’s social and cultural differences, it is in satisfactory harmony with all, ancl it does not represent, by its size, influence or endeav- oLlrs, a possible threat or source of conflict to anyone. Igo, Secondly, we have put forward our candidature because we are also subjectively.disposed to accept and discharge the duty of representing our regional group in the Security Council. It is not that we believe it is always possi- ble to achieve within the group the co1lsensus necessary in order to speak on behalf of Latin America or as its represen- tative, On the contrary, we are aware of our differences and 191, The point I wish to make is that within the group of Latin American States there is more that unites us than that divides us, and that our determination to represent the group as a whole would strengthen the proper role of the group itself as a melting-pot of differences and a source of common action. 192. We have resolved, and we undertake, to convene the group to discuss problems which may arise for us as a member of the Security Council, to take into account the reasons advanced by all members, to convey, when it exists, their collective view and, when it does not, their individual views: in short, loyally and gratefully to live up to the honour of being allowed to represent the kindred peoples of Latin America by occupying their seat in the supreme organ of the United Nations system. 193. But we have also been led to submit our candidature by considerations of a universal character related to our very concept of the United Nations in general and of the Security Council in particular. 194. We believe that there is already sufficient cause for concern in the presence and extraordinary power of the permanent members of the Security Council, which repre- sent their own conflicting interests. We must not fail, there- fore, to strive to ensure that the non-permanent members refrain from aggravating that confrontation by lending themselves to a game of arithmetical skirmishing in which their role is merely to tip the balance; to ensure that they do not align themselves in any way with any of the various power groups but instead draw their inspiration solely from the principles of the Charter of the United Nations in the interests of the international community as a whole, taking a position not as partisans but as true judges prepared to vote for justice and the law even against their own immediate interests or those of the respective power groups. 195. Obviously, it is not enough merely to say this, or to be subjectively prepared to live up to it without the objective conditions necessary for doing it. Costa Rica not only says it and declares its resolve to do it, but ventures to claim qualifications backed by the complete concordance of those views with our national interest. Costa Rica’s credentials in advancing its candidature for the supreme organ of interna- tional peace and security include the fact that it is one of the very few countries in the world which has taken the decision to disarm without conditions and without waiting for others to do so first, abolishing its army by constitutional provision in terms such that not even the imminent danger of world war has compelled it to renounce its stand for peace. 196. Costa Rica is proud to be the holder of several impor- tant records in international affairs. It is a country which has most speedily ratified the international conventions con- cluded by the United Nations, the Organization of Ameri- can States, the ILO, UNESCO and other international organizations. It has accepted all international jurisdictions, such as that of the International Court of Justice, the Com- mission on Human Rights, the Inter-American Commission 197. It is for those reasons that we feel that Costa Rica can, as a balancing factor, bring to the Security Council its contribution to the maintenance of international peace and security, given its record of voting and actions that demon- strate its true non-alignment, its faithful compliance with the principles of the United Nations, its recognized respect for international law and human rights and also its exemplary stance as one of the few completely unarmed countries in the world. 198. The wide recognition of those circumstances has already warranted extensive support for our candidature. That support has engaged our gratitude and strengthened our will to fulfil honourably our duties in the Security Council, provided that we are, as we trust, honoured with the necessary majority of votes for our election. 199. I should like to conclude by reiterating Costa Rica’s confidence in the fruitfulness of our debates and in the spirit of understanding which must guide our negotiations. Since the founding of the United Nations my country has placed its trust in the Organization and today more than ever we believe in the decisive role which the General Assembly can play in making the future of makind one of peace, freedom and universal justice.

One representative asked to speak in exercise of his right of reply and I now call on him.

On behalf of the delegation of Guatemala and very much to my regret, I feel obliged to exercise the right of reply in order to reject the statements made by the Ministers for Foreign Affairs of Barbados and of Trinidad and Tobago. 202. I regret very deeply the fact that the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Barbados, Mr. Forde, with whom I have personal bonds of friendship, has compared my country to 203. I should like to recall to my Latin American brothers that in 1823 the Central American entity, ofwhich Guatem- ala was then a part, freed its slaves legally; those slaves had come in large part from British territories. 204. In that regard, we can affirm that in the years it has been a Member of the United Nations, Guatemala has always supported all movements fighting for self- determination and for the freedom of peoples. 205. Turning now to the specific question of Belize, I should like to recall that in that case there exists an age-old dispute between the United Kingdom and Guatemala. It has been stated repeatedly in this Assembly that the United Kingdom holds the Territory on the basis of a long-standing occupation, an occupation which is not legally recognized by Guatemala. That is why we were surprised to hear the gentlemen to whom I have referred stating that Guatemala does not accept resolutions of the General Assembly. The fact is that in a bilateral dispute the procedures provided for in the Charter must be followed, in particular, those mentioned in Article 33 of the Charter. 206. Since that is so, we are at this time negotiating with the United Kingdom the manner in which the dispute may be resolved. In fact the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Guatemala yesterday stated [25th meeting] that Guatemala had engaged in several rounds of negotiations. On 19 and 20 May this year the Foreign Ministers of Guatemala and the United Kingdom met, together with officials from Belize. The Minister also mentioned that towards the end of June he had paid a visit to the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in London and that on 7 and 8 July a meeting of technical officials from Guatemala and the United King- dom had taken place here in New York, for the purpose of seeking a solution of the various aspects of the dispute. Another meeting is to take place very shortly. 207. I should therefore like to make it quite clear that Guatemala categorically rejects the insinuations and accusa- tions made by the representatives of Trinidad and Tobago and of Barbados and that Guatemala is resolved to find a solution of the problem of Belize that will take into account the interests of that people. Once again, however, I would reiterate that Guatemala has historical legal rights the basis for which is such that we are certain of the soundness of otll position. The meeting rose at 6.10 p.m.