A/41/PV.4 General Assembly

This morning the Assembly will hear an address by

This morning the Assembly will hear an address by His Majesty King Juan Carlos I of Spain. His Majesty King Juan Carlos I of Spain. His Majesty King Juan Carlos I of Spain was escorted into the General Assembly His Majesty King Juan Carlos I of Spain was escorted into the General Assembly Hall. Hall. ~.PRESIDENT: On behalf of the General Assembly, I have the honour to ~.PRESIDENT: On behalf of the General Assembly, I have the honour to welcome to the united Nations His Majesty King Juan Carlos I of Spain, and to welcome to the united Nations His Majesty King Juan Carlos I of Spain, and to invite him to address the Assembly. invite him to address the Assembly. King JUAN CARLOS (interpretation from Spanish): Sir, allow me first to King JUAN CARLOS (interpretation from Spanish): Sir, allow me first to express my satisfaction and that of the Government of Spain at seeing you preside express my satisfaction and that of the Government of Spain at seeing you preside over this session of the General Assembly. Your proven professional abilities and over this session of the General Assembly. Your proven professional abilities and your out&tanding personal qualities will contribute decisively towards ensuring your out&tanding personal qualities will contribute decisively towards ensuring that the work of the General Assembly will yield the benefits that we all await that the work of the General Assembly will yield the benefits that we all await from it. from it. I should also like to underline the skill and efficiency shown by your I should also like to underline the skill and efficiency shown by your predecessor, Am~assador Jaime de Pinies, throughout the previous session, and to predecessor, Am~assador Jaime de Pinies, throughout the previous session, and to express my admiration for the quiet but indefatigable work of the express my admiration for the quiet but indefatigable work of the Secretary-General, Mr. Perez de Cuellar. Secretary-General, Mr. Perez de Cuellar. It was the wish of the Government of Spain that the titular bearer of the It was the wish of the Government of Spain that the titular bearer of the crown, in the exercise of his constitutional function of representing the State, crown, in the exercise of his constitutional function of representing the State, should make heard within this forum the voice of his country; a country that should make heard within this forum the voice of his country; a country that proudly holds as its highest historical credentials its respect for the law of proudly holds as its highest historical credentials its respect for the law of nations and its confirmed effort to mak~ international coexistence more secure, nations and its confirmed effort to mak~ international coexistence more secure, more pacific, and more solid. Spain is glad to address this universal forum, which more pacific, and more solid. Spain is glad to address this universal forum, which stirs the hope that the ideals of peace, justice and solidarity may firmly prevail stirs the hope that the ideals of peace, justice and solidarity may firmly prevail within the international order. within the international order. Spain was one of the first communities to constitute itself as a nation State Spain was one of the first communities to constitute itself as a nation State in renaissance Europe, thus taking, together with other communities, a decisive in renaissance Europe, thua taking, together with other communities, a deeisive step in the process of rationalizing political coexistence. In that same period of step in the process of rationalizing political coexistence. In that same period of history, several Spanish jurists and theologians, when examining the title for history, several Spanish jurists and theologians, when examining the title for Spaincs presence in America, were already arguing that there were limits to Spaincs presence in America, were already arguing that there were limits to national power. In order for the exercise of this power to be legitimate, it must national power. In order for the exercise of this power to be legitimate, it must be inspired by an ethical conscience and must respect the rights and aspirations of be inspired by an ethical conscience and must respect the rights and aspirations of other peoples. Or, to put it in the language of the pe~iod, the legitimate other peoples. Or, to put it in the language of the pe~iod, the legitimate exercise of national power must strive to secure the "common weal of the earth". exercise of national power must strive to secure the -common weal of the earth-. We owe to Francisco de Vitoria, one of the founders of the jus gehtiumr We owe to Francisco de Vitoria, one of the founders of the jus gehtium, int~rnational law, the following phrase: int~rnational law, the following phrase: "If in the fulfilment of a just cause some damage is done to the universe, "If in the fulfilment of a just cause some damage is done to the universe, then the cause turns out to be an unjust one." then the cause turns out to be an unjust one." In the very roots of our Constitution as a State we therefore find the In the very roots of our Constitution as a State we therefore find the awareness of an international society whose common good limits the action of the awareness of an international society whose common good limits the action of the State. Also present is a pledge of solidarity among all members of the human State. Also present is a pledge of solidarity among all members of the human race. Both of these factors provide a basis for the legal structuring of the race. Both of these factors provide a basis for the legal structuring of the international community which we find today enshrined as an institution in the international community which we find today enshrined as an institution in the united Nations. united Nations. It is against the background of this old tradition that I am addressing the It is against the background of this old tradition that I am addressing the Assembly today. I do so also as the representative of a nation, young because of Assembly today. I do so also as the representative of a nation, young because of the age of its citizens and because it has recovered, along with its freedom and the age of its citizens and because it has recovered, along with its freedom and democracy, a vital attitude characteristic of youth - that is, the capacity to look democracy, a vital attitude characteristic of youth - that is, the capacity to look to the future with boldness and hope. to the future with boldness and hope. When a people recovers its vital impulse, integrating its traditions into a When a people recovers its vital impulse, integrating its traditions into a design for the future, it cannot forget that this revitalization should be inspired design for the future, it cannot forget that this revitalization should be inspired equally by the ideals of its own society and by the requirement of harmonious, equally by the ideals of its own society and by the requirement of harmonious, peaceful ar~ just international coexistence. peaceful ar~ just international coeKistence. (King Juan Carlos) (King Juan Carlos) Today, for the first time, the world is one, yet at the same time it is Today, for the first time, the world is one, yet at the same time it is CUlturally diverse. CUlturally diverse. In the past, the alleged superiority of a given culture or civilization was In the past, the alleged superiority of a given culture or civilization was used to justify the domination of sonle nations over others. Cultural diversity was used to justify the domination of sonle nations over others. Cultural diversity was challenged by an impulse that thrived on seeking economic advantage or strategic challenged by an impulse that thrived on seeking economic advantage or strategic predominance. predominance. Today, the commonly accepted rule is that each culture should be understood Today, the commonly accepted rule is that each culture should be understood and judged exclusively in relation to its own values and not by whether it can and judged exclusively in relation to its own values and not by whether it can adapt itself, through mimesis or through for~eF to some allegedly super~or adapt itself, through mimesis or through for~eF to some allegedly super~or culture. It is from this conception of the universality and cultural diversity of culture. It is from this conception of the universality and cultural diversity of mankind that the great impetus towards political decolonization derived. mankind that the great impetus towards political decolonization derived. The united Nations bears witness to this powerful reality, which opens a new The united Nations bears witness to this powerful reality, which opens a new phase in history. The united Nations has been the standard and the basic phase in history. The United Nations has been the standard and the basic instrument of this step towards a true society of nations. instrument of this step towards a true society of nations. It is true that certain well known vestiges of colonial conditions still It is true that certain well known vestiges of colonial conditions still persist. And one of these anachronistic situations concerns my country. Spain persist. And one of these anachronistic situations concerns my country. spain maintains, vigorously and with the weight of the reason inherent in its cause, the maintains, vigorously and with the weight of the reason inherent in its cause, the will to find a rapid solution to the problem of Gibraltar, so that the Rock can be will to find a rapid solution to the problem of Gibraltar, so that the Rock can be reintegrated into Spanish national territory. A new chapter has opened up since reintegrated into Spanish national territory. A new chapter has opened up since the Brussels Declaration of 27 November 1984 and since the Governments of the the Brussels Declaration of 27 November 1984 and since the Governments of the United Kingdom and of Spain decided, in February 1985 in Geneva, co resolve the United Kingdom and of Spain decided, in February 1985 in Geneva, lo resolve the problem in all its aspects, including that of sovereignty, through negotiation. problem in all its aspects, including that of sovereignty, through negotiation. This new phase is dominated by the hope of putting an end to an unjust situation This new phase is dominated by the hope of putting an end to an unjust situation without harming the interests of the local population. without harming the interests of the local population. (King Juan Carlos) (King Juan Carlos) We find ourselves not only before a politically and culturally diverse world We find ourselves not only before a politically and culturally diverse world but also before an economic order in which differences continue to exist and become but also before an economic order in which differences continue to exist and become wider. The past decade has been marked by economic crisis, the indebtedness of wider. The past decade has been marked by economic crisis, the indebtedness of important developing areas and the reappearance of new protectionist tendencies. important developing areas and the reappearance of new protectionist tendencies. Not only justice and solidarity, but peace and security themselves, require the Not only justice and solidarity, but peace and security themselves, require the bridging of these differences and the correction of these tendencies. bridging of these differences and the correction of these tendencies. A few months ago, when dealing with the critical economic situation in Africa, A few months ago, when dealing with the critical economic situation in Africa, the Assembly was the forum where, on the one hand, the African nations were the Assembly was the forum where, on the one hand, the African nations were convinced of their need to ea~ry out a great effort of self-appraisal, of convinced of their need to eac~Y out a great effort of self-appraisal, of adjustment and action, and Where, on the other hand, the remaining nations became adjustment and actionJ and where, on the other hand, the remaining nations became fully aware of the fact that it is impossible to accept passively the stagnation fully aware of the fact that it is impossible to accept passively the stagnation and deterioration of a part of the world which is essential to the whole. This and deterioration of a part of the world which is essential to the whole. This expression of political far-sightedness and solidarity is a hopeful development. expression of political far-sightedness and solidarity is a hopeful development. Spain, within the limits of its resources and possibilities, has pledged its Spain, within the limits of its resources and possibilities, has pledged its co-operation and today reiterates that pledge. co-operation and today reiterates that pledge. The foreign indebtedness of certain nations, and among them some particularly The foreign indebtedness of certain nations, and among them some particularly close to Spain, is a serious problem that affects us all. There is no easy close to Spain, is a serious problem that affects us all. There is no easy solution. No doubt many factors and paths of action have contributed to bringing solution. No doubt many factors and paths of action have contributed to bringing about this situation. The responsibilities are manifold and have to be shared. about this situation. The responsibilities are manifold and have to be shared. Let historians pass a final judgement on them. What matters today is to encourage Let historians pass a final jUdgement on them. What matters today is to encourage those policies of adjustment necessary to correct domestic situations, not only by those policies of adjustment necessary to correct domestic situations, not only by applauding them but also through generosity and specific support. These policies applauding them but also through generosity and specific support. These policies have certain limits whi,ch, if exceeded, can put at risk domestic peace and have certain limits whi.ch, if exceeded, can put at risk domestic peace and solidarity, thus hindering delicate processes of political and social change. solidarity, thus hindering delicate processes of political and social change. In the process of political reconstruction that has been going on for the past In the process of political reconstruction that has been going on for the past decade, my country has set the framework of its international position. decade, my country has Set the framework of its international position. (King Juan Carlos) (King Juan Carlos) Since the previous session of the General Assembly Spain has defined its since the previous session of the General Assembly Spain has defined its position on two important options. In 1986 it became a member of th~ European position on two important options. In 1986 it became a member of th~ European Community and, after consulting the Spanish people, it defined the terms of its Community and, after consulting the Spanish people, it defined the terms of its continued membership in the Atlantic Alliance. continued membership in the Atlantic Alliance. By joining the organizations and institutions of W~stern European integration, By joining the organizations and institutions of Western European integration, Spain only confirms what history and culture have made of it since the beginning of Spain only confirms what history and culture have made of it since the beginning of modern times. Spain has always been an integral and essential part of Europe for modern times. Spain has always been an integral and essential part of Europe for geographical and historical reasons and by vocation. Through its participation in geographical and historical reasons and by vocation. Through its participation in the decision-making processes of the Twelve, 5~ain can make its voice heard on the decision-making processes of the Twelve, S~ain can make its voice heard on European matters and can bring to the activities of communitarian Europe new European matters and can bring to the activities of communitarian Europe new dimensions which stem from its histori.cal past. Europe certainly cannot give way dimensions which stem from its histori,cal past. Europe certainly cannot give way to any temptation to be inward-looking. On the contrary, we strive to increase the to any temptation to be inward-looking. On the contrary, we strive to increase the contacts and exr.hanges of the European Community with other parts of the world, and contacts and exr.hanges of the European Community with other parts of the world, and especially with the countries of the American continent. Europe cannot confine especially with the countries of the American continent. Europe cannot confine itself to the cultivation of its own garden, nor can it content itself with the itself to the cultivation of its own garden, nor can it content itself with the preservation of an enviable quality of life, when other regions of the ~~rld find preservation of an enviable quality of life, when other regions of the ~~rld find themselves strangled by stagnation, .by the diminution of international trade and by themselves strangled by stagnation, .by the diminution of international trade and by the negative interplay of commercial and financial factors. the negative interplay of commercial and financial factors. From our position as Western allies, we contribute to common security and, as From our position as western allies, we contribute to common security and, as a fundamental part of this, we strive to help make the dialogue between the a fundamental part of this, we strive to help make the dialogue between the super-Powers come to fruition and the negotiating forums intensify their work. We super-Powers come to fruition and the negotiating forums intensify their work. We nourish the hope that the consolidation of a climate of dialogue and of greater nourish the hope that the consolidation of a climate of dialogue and of greater confidence in international relations will lead, in a relatively brief period, to confidence in international relations will lead, in a relatively brief period, to drastic cuts, for the first time, in nuclear arsenals; to the halting of the arms drastic cuts, for the first time, in nuclear arsenals; to the halting of the arms race; to a world-wide ban on chemical weapons; and to significant advances in the race; to a world-wide ban on chemical weapons; and to significant advances in the field of conventional disarmament. field of conventional disarmament. , , (King Juan Carlos) (King Juan Carlos) On a regional level, the Conference on Security and Co-operation in Europe, On a regional level, the Conference on Security and Co-operation in Europe, which was born in Helsinki and gained new impetus in Belgrade and Madrid, is being which was born in Helsinki and gained new impetus in Belgrade and Madrid, is being followed up in various forums. In Stockholm today an important consensus has been followed up in various forums. In Stockholm today an important:: consensus has been achieved which will certainly strengthen European security and harmony in achieved which will certainly strengthen European security and harmony in international relations in a broad geographical framework. It is to be hoped that international relations in a broad geographical framework. It is to be hoped that this success will have a positive impact on the new phase of the Conference, which this success will have a positive impact on the new phase of the Conference, which will soon resume in Vienna. will soon resume in Vienna. This dual definition of Spain, as European and as Western, complements and This dual definition of Spain, as European and as Western, complements and enriches our relations with the cou~tries and peoples of Latin America. We are enriches our relations with the cou~tries and peoples of Latin America. We are bound to them through special cultural and historical ties, which give ~IS a sense bound to theiil through special cultural and historical ties, which give ~lS a sense of solidarity with them in the search for just solutions to the political, economic of solidarity with them in the search for just solutions to the political, economic and social problems they are facing today. and social problems they are facing today. To the existing elements of concern, a new one of unsuspected scope has been To the existing elements of concern, a new one of unsuspected scope has been added in recent years: terrorism, which preys on innocent lives, stimulates added in recent years: terrorism, which preys on innocent lives, stimulates catastrophic visions and deprives citizens of their peace. catastrophic visions and deprives citizens of their peace. Terrorism, the supreme assault upon the most primary and, at the same time, Terrorism, the supreme assault upon the most primary and, at the same time, most profound of human rights - the right to live in peace - has international most profound of human rights - the right to live in peace - has international dimensions. Support for, and even tolerance of, terrorism disqualifies any State dimensions. Support for, and even tolerance of, terrorism disqualifies any State as a member in good faith of the international community. as a member in good faith of the international community. The Spanish Government has repeatedly declared itself in favour of The Spanish Government has repeatedly declared itself in favour of intensifying international co-operation against this universal scourge. The intensifying international co-operation against this universal scourge. The unanimous and unequivocal condemnation of terrorism, in whatever form, by this unanimous and unequivocal condemnation of terrorism, in whatever form, by this Assembly last December doubtless constitutes a hopeful step which should be Assembly last December doubtless constitutes a hopeful step which should be followed by concrete and effective measures of international co-operation. followed by concrete and effective measures of international co-operation. (King Juan Carlos) (King Juan Carlos) Unfortunately. this Assembly must once again focus its attention on a series Unfortunately. this Assembly must once again focus its attention on a series of oonflictive situations in various regions of the world. Some are recent, others of conflictive situations in various regions of the world. Some are recent, others almost chronic, but all together produce the gravest rupture in the principles of almost chronic, but all together produce the gravest rupture in the principles of the Charter of our Organization. Meanwhile we watch helplessly as some peoples, the Charter of our Organization. Meanwhile we watch helplessly as some peoples, which should be forging their future in peace and harmony, are instead bleeding which should be forging their future in peace and harmony, are instead bleeding themselves amidst incredible destruction and suffering. themselves amidst incredible destruction and suffering. In the face of these painful conflicts, the reasons behind our well-known In the face of these painful conflicts, the reasons behind our well-known positions not only remain valid but in some cases have been reinforced. From this positions not only remain valid but in some cases have been reinforced. From this POdium, I appeal for negotiation and dialogue to overcome intolerance and POdium, I appeal for negotiation and dialogue to overcome intolerance and intransigence once and for all, so that the forcf~ of reason and law may prevail intransigence once and for all, so that the forcft of reason and law may prevail over the reason of force. over the reason of force. Peace is tranquillity and harmony within order. There can be no harmony if Peace is tranquillity and harmony within order. There can be no harmony if clearly unjust situations continue to exist in the world. Still less can it be clearly unjust situations continue to exist in the world. Still less can it be present if the voices that denounce injustice are drowned out. Respect for human present if the voices that denounce injustice are drowned out. Respect for human rights will be a yardstick by which our civilization and our specific conduct will rights will be a yardstick by which our civilization and our specific conduct will be jUdged. Not only the conduct of those who violate human rights but also that of be jUdged. Not only the conduct of those who violate human rights but also that of those who do not condemn violations or adopt towards them an attitude of passive those who do not condemn violations or adopt towards them an attitude of passive resignation. resignation. The total contempt for the human being that is entailed by racial The total contempt for the human being that is entailed by racial discrimination and the policy of apartheid constitutes the most flagrant attack on discrimination and the policy of apartheid constitutes the most flagrant attack on the concept of the unity of the human race. Against it we must take all the the concept of the unity of the human race. Against it we must take all the necessary steps to secure its dismantlement and abolition. We must bring to their necessary steps to secure its dismantlement and abolition. We must bring to their senses those who, blinded by their prejudices and fears, condemn the vast majority senses those who, blinded by their prejUdices and fears, condemn the vast majority of their compatriots to i.ntolerable domination and oppression and in so doing seal of their compatriots to i.ntolerable domination and oppression and in so doing seal the future of their own country. the future of their own country. (King Juan Carlos) 1.n recent years, international co-operation through multilateral channels has 1.n recent years, international co-operation through multilateral channels has been progressively undermined. Nevertheless, it is certain that in our been progressively undermined. Nevertheless, it is certain that in our increasingly interdependent world, numerous problems make it imperative that we increasingly interdependent world, numerous problems make it imperative that we search for solutions in a multilateral framework. Serious institutional and search for solutions in a multilateral framework. Serious institutional and financial problems were added last year to the difficulties that traditionally financial problems were added last year to the difficulties that traditionally confront the United Nations. confront the United Nations. The Secretary-General, whose activities deserve our recognition and support, The Secretary-General, whose activities deserve our recognition and support, has brought to completion ~~urageous initiatives. For Its part, the Assembly must has brought to completion ~~urageous initiatives. For Its part, the Assembly must examine and adopt the necessary measures to improve the efficiency and examine and adopt the necessary measures to improve the efficiency and administration of the Organization. The United Nations is the best overall administration of the Organization. The United Nations is the best overall instrument for the maintenance of peace and security. It does invaluable instrument for the maintenance of peace and security. It does invaluable co-operative work in many fields. It is the repository of the ideal of an co-operative work in many fields. It is the repository of the ideal of an international order ruled by law. The international community cannot allow its international order ruled by law. The international community cannot allow its activities to be impaired and its prestige diminished because of an inadequate use activities to be impaired and its prestige diminished because of an inadequate use of existing resources. of existing resources. The session now beginning will undoubtedly be important in the search for The session now beginning will undoubtedly be important in the search for solutions to the many problems inherent in the present international situation. solutions to the many problems inherent in the present international situation. That situation, while gravely disquieting in certain ways, also encompasses That situation, while gravely disquieting in certain ways, also encompasses possibilities for progress towards the goals set out in the Charter. possibilities for progress towards the goals set out in the Charter. I am sure that the Assembly will continue to advance along the road - however I am sure that the Assembly will continue to advance along the road - however difficult: that might sometimes be - towards peace, security and co-operation. difficult: that might sometimes be - towards peace, security and co-operation.

On behalf of the General Assembly, I wish to thank.His

On behalf of the General Assembly, I wish to thank.His Majesty King Juan Carlos of Spain for the important statement he has just made. Majesty King Juan Carlos of Spain for the important statement he has just made. I would request representatives to remain seated while the Secretary-General I would request representatives to remain seated while the Secretary-General and I escort His Majesty King Juan Carlos. and I escort His Majesty King Juan Carlos. His Majesty King Juan Car10s of Spain was escorted from the General Assembly His Majesty King Juan Carlos of Spain was escorted from the General Assembly !!ill. !!ill. The meeting was suspended at 10.25 a.m. and resumed at 11 a.rn. The meeting was suspended at 10.25 a.m. and resumed at 11 a.rn. ADDRESS BY MR. RONALD REAGAN, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ADDRESS BY MR. RONALD REAGAN, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

The Assembly will now hear an address by the President of

The Assembly will now hear an address by the President of the united States. the united States. Mr. Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, was escorted Mr. Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, was escorted into the General Assembly Ball. into the General Assembly Ball.

On behalf of the General Assembly, I have the honour to

On behalf of the General Assembly, I have the honour to welcome to the United Nations General Assembly the President of the United States welcome to the United Nations General Assembly the President of the United States of America, His Excellency Mr. Ronald Reagan, and to invite him to address the of America, His Excellency Mr. Ronald Reagan, and to invite him to address the General Assembly. General Assembly. President REAGAN: A short walk from this Hall is the delegates' President REAGAN: A short walk from this Hall is the delegates' Meditation Room, a refuge from a world deafened by the noise of strife and Meditation Room, a refuge from a world deafened by the noise of strife and violence. ·We want to bring back the idea of worship·, Dag Bammarskjold once said violence. ·We want to bring back the idea of worship·, Dag Bammarskjold once said about this room, "uevotion to something which is greater and higher than we are about this room, "uevotion to something which is greater and higher than we are ourselves·. ourselves·. It is just such devotion that gave birth to the united Nations: devotion to It is just such devotion that gave birth to the united Nations: devotion to the dream of world peace and freedom, of human rights and democratic the dream of world peace and freedom, of human rights and democratic self-determination, of a t~e when, in those ancient words, •••• they shall beat self-determination, of a t~e when, in those ancient words, •••• they shall beat their swords into plowshares ••• nation shall not lift up 6word against nation, their swords into plowshares ••• nation shall not lift up 6word against nation, neither shall they learn war any more". neither shall they learn war any more". The United States remains committed to the united Nations. For over 40 years, The United States remains committed to the united Nations. For over 40 years, this Organization has provided an international forum for harmonizing conflicting this Organization has provided an international forum for harmonizing conflicting national interests and has made a significant contribution in such fields as national interests and has made a significant contribution in such fields as peace-keeping, humanitarian assistance, and eradicating disease. Yet, no one knows peace-keeping, humanitarian assistance, and eradicating disease. Yet, no one knows better than those in this Hall how the noble ideals embodied in the Charter have better than those in this Hall how the noble ideals embodied in the Charter have often remained unfulfilled. This Organization itself faces a critical hour - that often remained unfulfilled. This Organization itself faces a critical hour - that (President Reagan) (President Reagan) Is u$~ally stated as a fiscal c~lais. But we can turn this "crisis· into an is us~ally stated as a fiscal crisis. But we can turn this "crisis· into an opportunity. The important reforms proposed by the Group of Experts can be a first opportunity. The important reforms proposed by the Group of Experts can be a first step towards restoring this Organization's status and effectiveness. The issue, step towards restoring this Organization's status and effectiveness. The issue, ulttmately, is not one of cash but of credibility. If all the Members of this ultimately, is not one of cash but of credibility. If all the Members of this universal Organization decide to seize the moment and turn the rhetoric of reform universal Organization decide to seize the moment and turn the rhetoric of reform into reality, the future of the united Nations will be secure. And members have my into reality, the future of the united Nations will be secure. And members have my word for it: My country, which has always given the united Nations generous word for it: My country, which has always given the united Nations generous support, will continue to play a leading role in the effort to achieve its noble support, will continue to play a leading role in the effort to achieve its noble purposes. purposes. When I came before the Assembly last year, an important moment in the pursuit When I came before the Assembly last year, an important moment in the pursuit of those purposes had not yet occurred. The leaders of the Soviet union and the of those purposes had not yet occurred. The leaders of the Soviet union and the United States were to meet in Geneva. These discussions have now been held. For United States were to meet in Geneva. These discussions have now been held. For over 15 hours, the Soviet and American delegations met. For about five hours, over 15 hours, the Soviet and American delegations met. For about five hours, General Secretary Gorbachev and I talked alone. General Secretary Gorbachev and I talked alone. Our talks were frank. The talks were also productive - in a larger sense than Our talks were frank. The talks were also productive - in a larger sense than even the documents that were agreed. Mr. Gorbachev was blunt; so was I. We came even the documents that were agreed. Mr. Gorbachev was blunt; so was I. We came to realize again the truth of the statement: Nations do not mistrust each other to realize again the truth of the statement: Nations do not mistrust each other because they are armed; they are armed because they mistrust each other. And I did because they are armed; they are armed because they mistrust each other. And I did not hesitate to tell Mr. Gorbachev our view of the source of that mistrust: the not hesitate to tell Mr. Gorbachev our view of the source of that mistrust: the Soviet Union's record of seeking to impose its ideology and rule on others. So we Soviet Union's record of seeking to impose its ideology and rule on others. So we acknOWledged the deep and abiding differences between our systems of government, acknowledged the deep and abiding differences between our systems of government, our views of history, and the future of mankind. But, despite these differences, our views of history, and the future of mankind. But, despite these differences, we resolved to work together for real reductions in nuclear arms, as well as we resolved to work together for real reductions in nuclear arms, as well as progress in other areas. progress in other areas. (President Reagan) (President Reagan) Delegates to the forty-first session of the General Assembly of the United Delegates to the forty-first session of the General Assembly of the united Nations, today I want to report to you on what has transpired since the summit, Nations, today I want to report to you on what has transpired since the summit, notably the important letter I sent on 25 July to Mr. Gorbachev. In that letter, I notably the important letter I sent on 25 July to Mr. Gorbachev. In that letter, I dealt with the important issues of reducing nuclear arms, agreeing on strategic dealt with the important issues of reducing nuclear arms, agreeing on strategic defences, and limiting nuclear testing. In addition to those issues, which concern defences, and limiting nuclear testing. In addition to those issues, which concern the military aspects of Soviet-American relations, I would also like to address the military aspects of Soviet-American relations, I would also like to address other essential steps towards peace: the resolution of political conflicts, the other essential steps towards peace: the resolution of political conflicts, the strengthening of the international economy~ and the protection of human rights. strengthening of the international economy: and the protection of human rights. Before I do this, however, let me, in the tradition of candour establish~d at Before I do this, however, let me, in the tradition of candour establish~d at Geneva, tell you that a pall has been cast over our relations with the Soviet Geneva, tell you that a pall has been cast over our relations with the Soviet Union. I refer here to a particularly disturbing example of Soviet transgressions union. I refer here to a particularly disturbing example of Soviet transgressions against human rights. against human rights. Recently - after the arrest of a soviet national and United Nations employee Recently - after the arrest of a Soviet national and united Nations employee accused of espionage in the united States - an American correspondent in Moscow was accused of espionage in the united States - an American correspondent in Moscow was made the subject of fabricated accusations and trumped-up charges. He was arrested made the subject of fabricated accusations and trumped-up charges. He was arrested and jailed in a callous disregard of due process and numerous human rights and jailed in a callous disregard of due process and numerous human rights conventions. In effect, he was taken as a hostage - even threatened with the death conventions. In effect, he was taken as a hostage - even threatened with the death penalty. penalty. Both individuals have now been remanded to their respective ambassadors. But Both individuals have now been remanded to their respective ambassadors. But this is only an interim step, agreed to by the united States for humanitarian this is only an interim step, agreed to by the United States for humanitarian reasons. It does not change the facts of the case: Gennadi Zakharov is an accused reasons. It does not change the facts of the case: Gennadi Zakharov is an accused spy who should stand trialJ Nicholas Daniloff is an innocent hostage who should ~~ spy who should stand trialJ Nicholas Daniloff is an innocent hostage who should ~~ released. The Soviet Union bears the responsibility for the consequences of its released. The Soviet union bears the responsibility for the consequences of its action. Misusing the United Nations for the purposes of espionage does a grave action. Misusing the United Nations for the purposes of espionage does a grave disservice to this Organization. disservice to this Organization. (president Reagan) (president Reagan) The world expects better. It expects contributions to the cause of peace that The world expects better. It expects contributions to the cause of peace that only the leaders of the United States and the Soviet union can make. only the leaders of the United States and the Soviet union can make. It is for this reason that I wrote last summer to Mr. Gorbachev with new arms It is for this reason that I wrote last summer to Mr. Gorbachev with new arms control proposals. Before discussin9 the proposals, let us be clear about which control proposals. Before discussin9 the proposals, let us be clear about which weapons are the most dangerous and threatening to peace. The threat does not come weapons are the most dangerous and threatening to peace. The threat does not come from defensive systems, which are a shield against attack, but from offensive from defensive systems, which are a shield against attack, but from offensive weapons - ballistic missiles that hurtle through space and can wreak mass weapons - ballistic missiles that hurtle through space and can wreak mass destruction on the surface of the Earth - especially the. Soviet Union's heavy, destruction on the surface of the Earth - especially the soviet union's heavy, accurate ICBMs, with multiple warheads, which have no counterparts in size or accurate IeBMs, with multiple warheads, which have no counterparts in size or number in any other country. number in any other country. That is why the United States has long urged radical, equitable, verifiable That is why the united States has long urged radical, equitable, verifiable reductions in these offensive systems. Note that I said reduction; for this is the reductions in these offensive systems. Note that I said reduction; for this is the real purpose of arms control: not just to codify the levels of today's arsenals, real purpose of arms control: not just to codify the levels of today's arsenals, not just to channel their further expansion, but to reduce them in ways that will not just to channel their further expansion, but to reduce them in ways that will reduce the danger of war. Indeed, the United States believes the prospect of a reduce the danger of war. Indeed, the United States believes the prospect of a future without such weapons ef mass destruction must be the ultimate goal of arms future without such weapons ef mass destruction must be the ultimate goal of arms control. control. I am pleased to say that the Soviet Union has now embraced our idea of radical I am pleased to say that the Soviet Union has now embraced our idea of radical reductions in offensive systems. At the Geneva summit last November, we agreed to reductions in offensive systems. At the Geneva summit last November, we agreed to intensify work in this area. Since then, the Soviets have made detailed proposals intensify work in this area. Since then, the Soviets have made detailed proposals which, while not acceptable to us, appear to represent a serio~s effort. So we which, while not acceptable to us, appear to represent a serio~s effort. So we continue to seek a 50 per cent reduction of American and soviet arsenals - with the continue to seek a 50 per cent reduction of American and s~viet arsenals - with the central focus on the reduction of ballistic missile warheads. If the Soviet Union central focus on the reduction of ballistic missile warheads. If the Soviet Union wants only a lesser reduction, however, we are prepared to consider it but as an wants only a lesser reduction, however, we are prepared to consider it but as an interim measure. In other provisions as well, we have sought to take account of interim measure. In other provisions as well, we have sought to take account of Soviet concerns. So there has been movement. Soviet concerns. So there has been movement. (President Reagan) (President Reagan) Similarly, in the area of intermediate-range nuclear forces, the United States Similarly, in the area of intermediate-range nuclear forces, the United States seeks the total elimination of such missiles on a global basis. Again, if the seeks the total elimination of such missiles on a global basis. Again, if the Soviet Union insists on pursuing such a goal in stages, we are prepared to conclude Soviet Union insists on pursuing such a goal in stages, we are prepared to conclude an interim agreement without delay. an interim agreement without delay. All this gives me hope. I can tell representatives that the exchanges between All this gives me hope. I can tell representatives that the exchanges between our two sides this summer could well have marked the beginning of serious, our two sides this summer could well have marked the beginning of serious, productive negotiation on arms reductions. The ice of the negotiating stalemate productive negotiation on arms reductions. The ice of the negotiating stalemate could break, if both sides intensify their effort in the new round of Geneva talks could break, if both sides intensify their effort in the new round of Geneva talks and if we keep the promises W2 made to each other last November. and if we keep the promises W2 made to each other last November. For too long a time, however, the Soviet response has been to downplay the For too long a time, however, the Soviet response has been to downplay the need for offensive reductions. When the United States began work C:l technology to need for offensive reductions. When the United States began work C~l technology to make offensive nuclear weapons obsolete some day, the Soviets tried to make that make offensive nuclear weapons obsolete some day, the Soviets tried to make that the main issue - as if the main danger to strategic stability was a defence against the main issue - as if the main danger to strategic stability was a defence against missiles that is still on the drawing boards, rather than the menacing ballistic missiles that is still on the drawing boards, rather than the menacing ballistic missiles themselves that already exist in excessive numbers. missiles themselves that already exist in excessive numbers. still, the United states recognizes that both the offensive and defensive ~till, the united states recognizes that both the offensive and defensive sides of the strategic equation must be addressed. And we have gone far to meet sides of the strategic equation must be addressed. And we have gone far to meet Soviet concerns expressed about the potential offensive use of strategic defensive Soviet concerns expressed about the potential offensive use of strategic defensive systems. I have offered firm and concrete assurances that our strategic defence systems. I have offered firm and concrete assurances that our strategic defence initiative could never be used to deploy weapons in space that can cause mass initiative could never be used to deploy weapons in space that can cause mass destruction on earth. I have pointed out that the radical reduction we seek now in destruction on earth. I have pointed out that the radical reduction we seek now in offensive arsenals would be additional insurance that strategic defence init!ati~e offensive arsenals would be additional insurance that strategic defence init!ati~e cannot be used to support a first-stike strategy. Our preference from the cannot be used to support a first-stike strategy. Our preference from the beginning has been to move forward co-operatively with the Soviets on strategic beginning has been to move forward co-operatively with the Soviets on strategic defences, so that neither side will feel threatened and both can benefit from the defences, so that neither side will feel threatened and both can benefit from the strategic revolution that strategic defence initiative represents. strategic revolution that strategic defence initiative represents• o (president Reagan) o (president Reagan) Th~ united States ccntinu~s to respect the anti-hallistt~ rnis9ile Treaty - in Th~ united States continu~s to respect the a~t!-ballistt~ rniS9ile Treaty - in spite of clear evidence that the Sov'iets are violating it. We have told the spite of clear evidence that the Sov'iets are violating it. We have told the soviets that, if we can both agree on radical reductions in st~ategic offensive Soviets that, if we can both agree on radical reductions in st~ategic offensive weapons, we are prepared right now to sign ah agreement with them on research, weapons, we are prepared right now to sign ah agreement with them on research, development, testing and deployment of strategic defences based on the following. development, testing and deployment of strategic defences based on the following. First, both sides would agree to confine themselves, through 1991, to First, both sides would agree to confine themselves, through 1991, to research, development and testing, which are permitted by the anti-ballistic research, development and testing, which are permitted by the anti-ballistic missile Treaty, to determine whether advanced systems of strategic defence are missile Treaty, to determine whether advanced systems of strategic defence are technically feasible. technically feasible. Secondly, a new treaty, signed now, would provide that, if after 1991 either Secondly, a new treaty, signed now, would provide that, if after 1991 either side should decide to deploy such a system, that side would be obliged to offer a side should decide to deploy such a system, that side would be obliged to offer a plan for sharing the benefits of strategic defence and eliminating offensive plan for sharing the benefits of strategic defence and eliminating offensive ballistic missiles. This plan would be negotiated over a two-year period. ballistic missiles. This plan would be negotiated over a two-year period. Thirdly, if the two sides cannot agree after two years of negotiation, either Thirdly, if the two sides cannot agree after two years of negotiation, either side would be free to deploy an advanced strategic defensive system~ after giving side would be free to deploy an advanced strategic defensive system~ after giving six months' notice to the other. six months' notice to the other. As the tnited States has repeatedly made clear, we are moving towards a future As the lnited States has repeatedly made clear, we are moving towards a future of greater reliance upon strategic defence. The united States remains prepared to of greater reliance upon strategic defence. The United States remains prepared to talk about how - under what ground rules and process - we and the Soviet union can talk about how - under what ground rules and process - we and the Soviet union can do this co-operatively. Such strategic defences, coupled with radical reductions do this co-operatively. Such strategic defences, coupled with radical reductions in offensive forces, would represent a safer balance and give future statesmen the in offensive forces, would represent a safer balance and give future statesmen the opportunity to move beyond it - to the ultimate elimination of nuclear weapons from opportunity to move beyond it - to the ultimate elimination of nuclear weapons from the face of the Earth. the face of the Earth. In addition to our proposals on offensive reductions and strategic defence, we In addition to our proposals on offensive reductions and strategic defence, we have suggested new steps in another area - nuclear testing. Just as eliminating have suggested new steps in another area - nuclear testing. Just as eliminating all nuclear weapons is our long-term goal, so too is a total b~n on nuclear all nuclear weapons is our long-term goal, so too is a total b~n on nuclear (President Reagan) (President Reagan) testing, but both must be approached with practical steps. For the reality is that testing, but both must be approached with practical steps. For the reality is that for now we still must rely on these weapons for the deterrence of war, thus the for now we still must rely on these weapons for the deterrence of war, thus the safety anQ I.eliability of our deterrent are themselves critAcal to peace. safety and I.eliability of our deterr.ent are themselves crit1ical to peace. The United States is proud of its record of nuclear safety and intends to The United States is proud of its record of nuclear safety and intends to maintain it. Nevertheless, we are, ss I said, ready now to take two important maintain it. Nevertheless, we are, ss I said, ready now to take two important steps towards l~diting nuclear testing: first, we a~e ready to move forward on steps towards l~diting nuclear testing: first, we a~e ready to move forward on ratification of the Threshold Test Ban Treaty and the Treaty on Peaceful Nuclear ratification of the Threshold Test Ban Treaty and the Treaty on Peaceful Nuclear Explosions, once agreement is reached on improved verification procedures. We have Explosions, once agreement is reached on improved verification procedures. We have proposed new ideas to make ~nis possible, secondly, upon ratific~tion of those proposed new ideas to make ~fiis possible, secondly, upon ratific~tion of those treaties - and in association with a programme to reduce and ultimately eliminate treaties - and in association with a programme to reduce and ultimately eliminate all nuclear weapons - we are prepared to discuss ways to implement a step-by-step all nuclear weapons - we are prepared to discuss ways to implement a step-by-step parallel programme of limiting and ultimately ending nuclear testing. parallel programme of limiting and ultimately ending nuclear testing. Those are steps that we could take in the near future to show the world that Those are steps that we could take in the near future to show the world that we are moving forward. I therefore call upon the Soviet union to join us in we are moving forward. I therefore call upon the Soviet union to join us in practical, attainable progress in limiting nuclear testing. practical, attainable progress in limiting nuclear testing. Just a few days ago I r"1ceived a reply from General Secretary Gorbachev to my Just a few days ago I rr.~ceived a reply from General Secretary Gorbachev to my letter of. 25 July - and, for the moment, let me say simply that we are giving it letter of. 25 July - and, for the moment, let me say simply that we are giving it serious and careful consideration. serious and careful consideration. As we move towards our goal of eliminating nuclear weapons, it is vital that As we move towards our goal of eliminating nuclear weapons, it is vital that we also address important imbalances in other kinds of weapons. This is why the we also address important imbalances in other kinds of weapons. This is why the United States has proposed a comprehensive global ban on all chemical weapons and United States has proposed a comprehensive global ban on all chemical weapons and why we and our allies have tried hard to break the stalemate in the conventional why we and our allies have tried hard to break the stalemate in the conventional force negotiations in Vienna. In the Stockholm Conference a major advance has been force negotiations in Vienna. In the Stockholm Conference a major advance has been achieved: a concrete new set of military confidence-building measures which achieved: a concrete new set of military confidence-building measures which inclUdes inspections. inclUdes inspections. (President Reagan) (President Reagan) But we must remember from the experience of the 1970s that progress in arms But we must remember from the experience of the 1970s that progress in arms control cannot be divorced from regional political developments. As I said at the control cannot be divorced from regional political developments. As I said at the beginning, political tensions cause military competition, not the other way around. beginning, political tensions cause military competition, not the other way around. However, while the United States and the Soviet Union disagree over the root However, while the united States and the Soviet Union disagree over the root causes of political tension, we agree that regional conflicts could escalate into causes of political tension, we agree that regional conflicts could escalate into global confrontation. Last year, from this rostrum, I presented a formula for global confrontation. Last year, from this rostrum, I presented a formula for peace which would apply to five critical regional conflicts that are potential peace which would apply to five critical regional conflicts that are potential flashpoints for wider conflicts. I pointed out how difficult it is for the United flashpoints for wider conflicts. I pointed out how difficult it is for the United states to accept soviet assurances of peaceful intent when 126,000 Soviet troops States to accept Soviet assurances of peaceful intent when 126,000 Soviet troops prosecute a viciou~ war against the Afghan people; when 140,000 Soviet-backed prosecute a viciou~ war against the Afghan people; when 140,000 Soviet-backed Vietnamese soldiers wage war on the people of Cambodia; when 1,700 Soviet advisers Vietnamese soldiers wage war on the people of Cambodia; when 1,700 Soviet advisers and 2,500 Cuban combat troops are involved in military planning and operations in and 2,500 Cuban combat troops are involved in military planning and operations in Ethiopia; when 1,300 Soviet military advisers and 36,000 Cuban troops direct and Ethiopia; when 1,300 Soviet military advisers and 36,000 Cuban troops direct and participate in combat operations to prop up an unpopular, repressive regime in participate in combat operations to prop up an unpopular, repressive regime in Angola; when hundreds of millions of dollars in Soviet arms and Soviet-bloc Angola; when hundreds of millions of dollars in Soviet arms and Soviet-bloc advisers help a dictatorial regime in Nicaragua try to subvert and betray a popular advisers help a dictatorial regime in Nicaragua try to subvert and betray a popular revolution. revolution. The danger inherent in these conflicts must be recognized. Marxist-Leninist The danger inherent in these conflicts must be recognized. Marxist-Leninist regimes tend to wage war as readily against their neighbours as they routinely do regimes tend to wage war as readily against their neighbours as they routinely do against their own people. In fact, the internal and external wars often become against their own people. In fact, the internal and external wars often become indistinguishable. In Afghanistan, for example, the puppet regime has announced indistinguishable. In Afghanistan, for example, the puppet regime has announced its intention to relocate tens of thousands of people from border areas~ Can its intention to relocate tens of thousands of people from border areas~ Can anyone doubt this will be done in classic communist style - by force? Many will anyone doubt this will be done in classic communist style - by force? Many will die, to make it easier for the Soviets and their satellite troops to intimidate die, to make it easier for the Soviets and their satellite troops to intimidate Pakistan. Pakistan. (President Reagan) (president Reagan) It is just such transgressions that make the risk of oonfrontation with It is just such transgressions that make the risk of oonfrontation with democratio nations 80 acute. democratic nations so acute. So, once again, I propose a three-point peace process for the resolution of So, once again, I propose a three-point peace process for the resolution of regional confliots: first, talks between the warring parties themselves, without regional confliots: first, talks between the warring parties themselves, without which an end to violence and national reconciliation are impossible; secondly, " which an end to violence and national reconciliation are impossible; secondly, " discussions between the united States and the Soviet Union - not to impose discussions between the united states and the Soviet union - not to impose solutions but to support peace talks and eventually eliminate the supply of arms solutions but to support peace talks and eventually eliminate the supply of arms and the proxy troops from abroad; thirdly, if the talks are successful, joint .. and the proxy troops from abroad; thirdly, if the talks are successful, joint .. efforts to welcome each country baok into the world economy and the oommunity of efforts to welcome each country back into the world economy and the community of nations that respect human rights. nations that respect human rights. (President Reagan) (President Reagan) In addition t~ ~egional disputes, the grave threat of terrorism also In addition t~ ~egional disputes, the grave threat of terrorism also jeopardizes the hopes for peace. No cause, no grievance can justify it. Terrorism jeopardizes the hopes for peace. No cause, no grievance can justify it. Terrorism is heinous and intolerable. It is the crime of cowards - cowards who pl:ey on the is heinous and intolerable. It is the crime of cowards - cowards who pl:ey on the innocent, the defenceless, and the helpless. innocent, the defenceless, and the helpless. with its allies and other nations, the united States has taken steps to with its allies and other nations, the united States has taken steps to counter terrorism directly - particularly State-sponsored terrorism. Last April, counter terrorism directly - particularly State-sponsored terrorism. Last April, the united States demonstrated that it will defend its interests and act against the united States demonstrated that it will defend its interests and act against terrorist aggression. Let me assure all of you today, especially let me as~ure any terrorist aggression. Let me assure all of you today, especially let me as~ure any potential sponsors of terrorism, that the American people are of one mind on this potential sponsors of terrorism, that the American people are of one mind on this issue. Like other civilized peoples of the world, we have reached our limit. issue. Like other civilized peoples of the world, we have reached our limit. Attacks against our citizens or our interests will not go unanswered. Attacks against our citizens or our interests will not go unanswered. We will also do all in our power to help other law-abiding nations threatened We will also do all in our power to help other law-abiding nations threatened by terrorist attacks. To that end, the united States believes that the by terrorist attacks. To that end, the united States believes that the understandings reached by the seven industrial democracies at the Tokyo summit last understandings reached by the seven industrial democracies at the Tokyo summit last May made a good start towards international accord in the war on terrorism. We May made a good start towards international accord in the war on terrorism. We recommend to the General Assembly consideration of the Tokyo resolutions. recommend to the General Assembly consideration of the Tokyo resolutions. MQving.to the economic realm, how ironic it is that some continue to espouse Moving to the economic realm, how ironic it is that some continue to espouse such ideas as a "new international economic o~der" based on state control when the such ideus as a "new international economic o~derft based on state control when the world is learning, as never before, that the freedom of the individual, not the world is learning, as neve~ before, that the freedom of the individual, not the power of the State, is the key to economic dynamism and growth. Nations have power of the State, is the key to economic dynamism and growth. Nations have turned away from centralized management and government controls and towards the turned away from centralized management and government controls and towards the incentives and rewards of the free market. They have invited their citizens·to incentives and rewards of the free market. They have invited their citizens·to develop their talents and abilities to the fullest and, in the process, to provide develop their talents and abilities to the fullest and, in the process, to provide jobs g to create wealth, to build social stability and foster faith in the future jobs p to create wealth, to build social stability and foster faith in the future for all. The economic summits of the industrial democracies have paid a tribute to for all. The economic summits of the industrial democracies have paid a tribute to these principles - as has the historic United Nations' special session on Africa in these principles - as has the historic United Nations' special session on Africa in (President Reaga~) (President Reaqa~) May. We applaud the African nations' call fo! reform leading to greater reliance May. We applaud the African nations' call for reform leading to greater reliance on their private sectors for economic growth. We believe that overcoming hunger on their private sectors for economic growth. We believe that overcoming hunger and economic stagnation requires policies that encourag~ Africa's own productivity and economic stagnation requires policies that encourag~ Africa's own productivity and initiativeJ such a policy framework will make it easier for the rest of the and initiativeJ such a policy framework will make it easier for the rest of the world, including the united States, to help. The laws of e~onomic incentives do world, including the united states, to help. The laws of economic incentives do not discriminate between developed and developing countries. They apply to all not discriminate between developed and developing countries. They apply to all equally. equally. Much of the recent recovery in the world economy can be directly attributed to Much of the recent recovery in the world economy can be directly attributed to this growth of economic freedom. And it is this trend that offers such hope for this growth of economic freedom. And it is this trend that offers such hope for the future. And yet this new hope faces a grave threat: the menace of trade the future. And yet this new hope faces a grave threat: the menace of trade barriers. History shows that the imposition of such barriers invites retaliation, barriers. History shows that the imposition of such barriers invites retaliation, which in turn sparks the very sort of trade wars that plunged the world in the which in turn sparks the very sort of trade wars that plunged the world in the 1930s deeper into depression and economic misery. Truly, protectionism is 1930s deeper into depression and economic misery. Truly, protectionism is destructioniem. destructioniem. That is why the united States seeks the assistance of all countries That is why the United States seeks the assistance of all countries represented here in the General Assembly in protecting the practice of free and represented here in the General Assembly in protecting the practice of free and fair trade. We applaud the success of the meeting of the General Agreement on fair trade. We applaud the success of the meeting of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) trade ministers last week in Uruguay, where agreement was Tariffs and Trade (GATT) trade ministers last week in Uruguay, where agreement was reached to launch a new round of multilateral trade negotiations covering a wide reached to launch a new round of multilateral trade negotiations covering a wide range of topics important to economic growth. with over 90 other countries members range of topics important to economic growth. with over 90 other countries members of GATT, the United States is working to maintain the free flow of international of GATT, the United States is working to maintain the free flow of international trade. trade. In addition to resistance to protectionism, the United States is also seeking In addition to resistance to protectionism, the United States is also seeking to stimulate world economic growth in other ways. Our Treasury bill interest rate to stimulate world economic growth in other ways. Our Treasury bill interest rate is now just over 5 per cent, the lowest it has been in nine years - which provides is now just over 5 per cent, the lowest it has been in nine years - which provides enormous relief to debtor countries. America's new tax structure will open the way enormous relief to debtor countries. America's new tax structure will open the way for greater prosperity at home, which will contribute to greater prosperity abroad. for greater prosperity at home, which will contribute to greater prosperity abroad. (President Reagan) (President Reagan) Finally, the united States is working with other countries to minimize currency Finally, the united States is working with other countries to minimize currency swings, to promote stability in the monetary markets, to establish predictability swings, to promote stability in the monetary markets, to establish predictability as a basis for prosperity. as a basis for prosperity. But, the United States believes the g~eatest contribution we can make to world But, the united States believes the g~eatest contribution we can make to world prosperity is the continued aa70cacy of the magic of the market-place - the truth, prosperity is the continued aa70cacy of the magic of the market-place - the truth, the simple and proven truth, that economic development is an outgrowth of economic the simple and proven truth, that economic development is an outgrowth of economic freedom just as economic freedom is the inseparable twin of political freedom and freedom just as economic freedom is the inseparable twin of political freedom and democratic government. democratic government. And it is here that we come to our final category - human rights - the And it is here that we come to our final category - human rights - the indispensable element for peace, freedom, and prosperity. I note that indispensable element for peace, freedom, and prosperity. I note that Mr. Gorbachev has used in recent speeches the same categories I have used here Mr. Gorbachev has used in recent speeches the same categories I have used here today: the military, the political, and the economic~ except that he titled his today: the military, the political, and the economic; except that he titled his fourth category: humanitarian. fourth category: humanitarian. The difference is revealing. The United States believes that respect for the The difference is revealing. The United States believes that respect for the individual, for the dignity of the human person - those rights outlined in the individual, for the dignity of the human person - those rights outlined in the United Nations universal Declaration of Hum ~ Rights - does not belong in the realm United Nations Universal Declaration of Hum ~ Rights - does not belong in the realm of charity or Rhumanitarian R causes. Respect for human rights is not social work~ of charity or RhumanitarianR causes. Respect for human rights is not social work; it is not merely an act of compassion. It is the first obligation of government it is not merely an act of compassion. It is the first obligation of government and the source of its legitimacy. and the source of its legitimacy. It also is the foundation-stone in any structure of world peace. All through It also is the foundation-stone in any structure of world peace. All through history, it has been the dictatorships and the tyrannies that have surrendered history, it has been the dictatorships and the tyrannies that have surrendered first to the cult of militarism and the pursuit of war. Countries based on the first to the cult of militarism and the pursuit of war. Countries based on the consent of the governed, countries that recognize the inalienable rights of the consent of the governed, countries that recognize the inalienable rights of the individual, do not make war on each other. Peace is more than just an absence of individual, do not make war on each other. Peace is more than just an absence of war. True peace is justice, true peace is freedom. And true peace dictates the war. True peace is justice, true peace is freedom. And true peace dictates the recognition of human rights. recognition of human rights. (President Reagan) (President Reagan) Commitments were made more than 10 years ago in Helsinki concerning those Commitments were made more than 10 years ago in Helsinki concerning those rights and their recognition. We need only look to the East today to see how sadly rights and their recognition. We need only look to the East today to see how sadly unfulfilled those commitments are. The persecution of scientists, religious unfulfilled those commitments are. The persecution of scientists, religious leaders, peace activists, political dissenters, and other prisoners of conscience leaders, peace activists, political dissenters, and other prisoners of conscience continues unabated behind the Iron Curtain. You know, one section of the Helsinki continues unabated behind the Iron Curtain. You know, one section of the Helsinki Accords even speaks to: "improvement of working conditions of journalists". Accords even speaks to: "improvement of working conditions of journalists". So, it is clear that progress in the human rights area must keep pace with So, it is clear that progress in the human rights area must keep pace with progress in other areas. A failure on this score will hinder further movement in progress in other areas. A failure on this score will hinder further movement in East-West relations. East-West relations. These, then, are the areas of concern and of opportunity that the united These, then, are the areas of concern and of opportunity that the united States sees in the quest for peace and freedom - the twin objectives of the united States sees in the quest for peace and freedom - the twin objectives of the united Nations Charter. Nations Charter. Last year, I pointed out in my address to the General Assembly the differences Last year, I pointed out in my address to the General Assembly the differences between the united States and the Soviet Union are deep and abiding. But I also between the united States and the Soviet union are deep and abiding. But I also called for a fresh start in relations between our two nations, a fresh start that called for a fresh start in relations between our two nations, a fresh start that could benefit our own people and the people of every nation. Since that time v the could benefit our own people and the people of every nation. Since that timer the United States has taken action and put forth new proposals that could lead our two United States has taken act~on and put forth new proposals that could lead our two countries and the entire world in a direction we all have long sought to go~ Now countries and the entire world in a direction we all have long sought to go. Now more than ever, it is the responsibility of the Soviet union to take action and more than ever, it is the responsibility of the Soviet union to take action and demonstrate that they too are continuing the dialogue for peace. demonstrate that they too are continuing the dialogue for peace. As I have said, I believe that we can be hopeful about the world and the As I have said, I believe that we can be hopeful about the world and the prospects for freedom. We only need look around us to see the new technologies prospects for freedom. We only need look around us to see the new technologies that may some day spare future generations the nightmare of nuclear terror, (.It the that may some day spare future generations the nightmare of nuclear terror, Ot the growing ranks of democratic activists and freedom fighters, or the increasing growing ranks of democratic activists and freedom fighters, or the increasing movement towards free market economies, or the extent of world-wide concern about movement towards free market economies, or the extent of world-wide concern about the rights of the individual in the face of brute, State power. the rights of the individual in the face of brute, State power. (President Reagan) In the past, when I have noted such trends - when I have called for a "forward In the past, when I have noted such trends - when I have called for a "forward strategy for freedom" and predicted the ultimate triumph of democratic rule over strategy for freedom" and predicted the ultimate triumph of democratic rule over totalitarianisRl - some have accused me of telling people what they want to hear, of totalitarianisRl - some have accused me of telling people what they want to hear, of urging them not to engage the day but to escape it. urging them not to engage the day but to escape it. Yet, to hl~pe is to believe in humanity; and in its future. Hope remains the Yet, to hl~pe is to believe in humanity; and in its future. Hope remains the highest reality, the age-old power; hope is at the root of all the great ideas and highest reality, the age-old power; hope is at the root of all the great ideas and causes that helve bettered the lot of humankind across the centuries. causes that helve bettered the lot of humankind across the centuries. History teaches us to hope - for it teaches us about man, and about the History teaches us to hope - for it teaches us about man, and about the irrepressible human spir~t, A Nohal laureate in literature, a great figure of the irrepressible human spir~t, A Noh~l laureate in literature, a great figure of the American South, William Faulkner, once said that the last sound heard on earth American South, William Faulkner, once said that the last sound heard on earth would be that of the two remaining humans arguing over where to go in the spaceship would be that of the two remaining humans arguing over where to go in the spaceship they had built. In his speech to the Nobel Committee in 1950, Faulkner spoke of they had built. In his speech to the Nobel Committee in 1950, Faulkner spoke of the nuclear age~ of the general and universal physical fear it had engendered, a the nuclear age~ of the general and universal physical fear it had engendered, a fear of destruction that had become almost unbearable. But~ he said: fear of destruction that had become almost unbearable. But~ he said: "I decline to accept the end of a man. I believe that man will not merely "I decline to accept the end of a man. I believe that man will not merely endure: he will prevail. He is immortal ••• because he has a soul, a spirit endure: he will prevail. He is immortal ••• because he has a soul, a spirit capable of compassion and sacrifice and endurance." capable of compassion and sacrifice and endurance." (President Reagan) (President Reagan) Paulkner spoke of the old verities and truths of the heart, of the courage, Paulkner spoke of the old verities and truths of the heart, of the courage, honour, pride, compassion, pity, sacrifice and, yes, that hope which is the glory honour, pride, compassion, pity, sacrifice and, yes, that hope which is the glory of our past. And all of these things we find today in our presentJ we must use of our past. And all of these things we find today in our presentf we must use them to build our future. It is why today we can lift up our spirits and our them to build our future. It is Why today we can lift up our spirits and our heartsJ it is why we resolve that with God's help the cause of humanity will not heartsf it is why we resolve that with God's help the cause of humanity will not merely endure but prevailJ that some day all the world - every nation, every merely endure but prevailf that some day all the world - every nation, every people, every person - will know the blessings of peace and see the light of people, every person - will know the blessings of peace and see the light of freedom. freedom.

On behalf of the General Assembly, I wish to thank the

On behalf of the General Assembly, I wish to thank the President of the united States of America for the important statement he has just President of the United States of America for the important statement he has just made. made. Mr. Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, was escorted Mr. Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America. was escorted from the General Assembly hall. from the General Assembly hall.