S/35/PV.10 Security Council

" Please accept our warm congratulations, Mr. President,on yourelectionto thepresi- dencyofthe thirty-fifthsessionof the General Assembly. In sharing in the assurances of appreciation of your own mer- its, achievements and experience that have been addressed to you from this rostrum, I should like, as representative of Poland, to underscore your personal contribution to the preparation of the process of normalization and develop- ment of relations between the Polish People'sRepublicand the Federal Republic of Germany. We join in the good wishes already expressed that, under your Presidency, the present session will bring about propitious and beneficial results. 50. We conveyour feelings of highesteemand gratitude to Mr. Salim Ahmed Salim, the outgoing President of the General Assembly, who used all his talents,dedicationand efficiency in guiding its work. 5I. As always,we follow withappreciation thetireless and dedicated activityof the Secretary-General of the Organiza- tion, Mr. Kurt Waldheim, and the efforts he makes with a view to solving compiex international problems. 52. We are pleased to be able to welcome in our midst today the newly admitted State,Saint Vincent and theGren- adines. May we also reiterate how much we rejoice at the 12 Mr. Czyrek spoke in Polish. The English version of his statement was supplied by the delegation. 5J.. Each year the interval between the sessions of this august forum brings new phenomena, new issues and new experiences in the lifeof individualnations and ofthe entire international community. We are meeting here, among the representatives of 154States, in order to draw appropriate conclusions from them. These conclusions must first and foremost be consistent with the purposes which we have ourselvesenshrined in the Charter of the United Nations- the maintenanceofpeace,the strengtheningofinternational security and the establishmentof conditionsfor the creative development of all nations. 54. The recent past has brought profound experiences'to the people of Poland. We assess them in the context ofour entire post-war development, in the perspective of the 35 years which have passedsincethe victoryover nazism, paid for dearly with irreplaceable lives, and since the emergence of the People's Republic of Poland. During that period, through a gigantic effort of our people,wehave rebuiltour country from the ravages of war, entered the road towards the all-embracing progress of our homeland, ensured full employment for all our citizensand created universal and freeaccess to education at all levels, to culture and to health care. 55. In the complex process of our socio-economic devel- opment, we have not escapeddifficulties, whether objective or subjective. We tackle and solve them with all openness and consideration, within the framework of what consti- tutes our nation's indisputablerecordofaccomplishment,in accordance with our principles, our politicalsystemand the socialistruleoflaw,inthe nameofconsolidatingtheunityof the people in the effort for the common good. 56. Our independent existence, sovereign development and lasting security are inseparably bound up with the strengthening of socialist Poland, which is linked through friendship and alliancewith the SovietUnionand isa strong component of the community of socialist States. Precisely such a Poland, an important factor of stabilization and peace in Europe, will continue to be fully committed to its role of eo-maker of permanent security on our continent and an active contributor to efforts towards peaceful and equitableco-operationthroughout the world. Sucha Poland isand will remain a consistentadvocate of a broad dialogue and many-sided co-operation with States having different socio-political systems, on the basis of the record so far accomplished in this field, in keeping with the principlesof peaceful coexistence. 57. We come to the present session faithful to the princi- ples and purposes on which Poland's foreign policy has invariably been based throughout the entire post-war period. They includethe <j',ruggle for the peaceand security of the nations ofEurope and ofthe world,the consolidation of detente and the development of comprehensive interna- tional co-operation. 59. The sources of evil include, moreover, all vestiges of colonialism and neo-colonial forms of domination and interference and the practice ofapartheid and various forms of racism and racial discrimination. which continue to breed tensions not only on a regional but also on a global scale. 60. The economic difficulties. and the energy problems in particular. which the world is now experiencing, combined with policies of protectionism, differences in the level of economic development and mounting demographic prob- lems, are further important indicators of the present state of the world. 61. Many statesmen believe that mankind has come to a crossroads. Our Polish experience of history and the vital interests ofall nations generate a desire that the worldfollow a road based on peaceful coexistence, strengthening of mutual understanding and just, equitable co-operation and on the implementation of the noble, humanistic purposes of the Charter of the United Nations. It cannot, however, be based on the escalation ofdangerous and costly armaments. the incitement of mutual distrust and the creation of ever- new tensions. 62. We firmly believe that, despite pressures brought to bear by imperialism, the world will choose the road of peaceful development. We are fortified in this conviction by the positive experience and achievements of the years that have passed. For no sensible person can deny that the time which separates us from the most ferocious ofwars, the time during which it proved possible to avert a global conflict, has brought much good to the nations of all continents. Indeed, would it have otherwise been possible to pursue the policy of active peaceful coexistence ofStates with different political systems and to continue detente and extensive ('1)- operation between them? Would the social progress achieved in many States have been possible? Would the entire process of decolonization and of the economic devel- opment of many regions of the world have proved feasible? 63. The positive impact upon European relations of the process of constructive transformations between East ~nd West, especially in the past decade. can hardly be denied, The signatories of the Final Act of the Conference on Secu- rity and Co-operation in Europe can be credited with impor- tant accomplishments in peaceful co-operation. 68. We consider the consolidation of detente and the pre- vention of a new escalation ofthe arms race to be most urgent at present. These two component questions are closely inter- linked and mutually conditional. What is more. their suc- cessful resolution will determine the political situation throughout the world. 64. Poland was one of the initiators of this process. We have been fully involved in the action to ensure its success. We know full well what a difficult task it was and how many obstacles had to be overcome on the road to detente. In this process there was and still is room for positive action by each and every State, irrespective of its socio-economic system, 65. Our concern for the fate of European detente and world peace and security has been reflected, in the present difficult period. in a number of initiatives and specific actions. Along with our allies, we have elaborated many constructive proposals with a view to easing and eliminating tensions in Europe and the world at large. At a time when the policy ofdetente was being threatened, we were among those who were doing their utmost to preserve contacts and dialogue in relations between East and West. 66. This year marks the tenth anniversary of the adoption by the General Assembly of the Declaration on the Strengthening of International Security [resolution 2734 (XXV)]. It provides a good opportunity to reflect on what we have attained and on what still remains to be done to give effect to its provisions. Wc can say with a full sense of responsibility: there is no such thing as a situation on which it is too complicated to take up or resume a dialogue, to seek constructive solutions, as long as all the parties are ready to demonstrate the indispensable political will, stemming from an understanding of the vital significance ofthe most impor- tant matters, namely, the maintenance of international peace and security and respect for the sovereign rights of nations. 67. In the struggle for peace, all rational, constructive initiatives count. We note with genuine satisfaction that, in response to tensions and threats, broadly representative social forces which come out in support of protecting and continuing detente and halting the arms race are becoming more active. This is, in fact, becoming a preoccupation of many people ofgreat wisdom and goodwill. We highly value the words of Pope John Paul 11 on the supreme question of peace for mankind. 69. The state of relations between the Soviet Unionand the United States remains of paramount importance. These relations, it isobvious, exert a decisive impact on the jnterna- tional atmosphere and on matters ofthe peace and security of nations in a global context. 71. In December 1979, the Council of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization [NATO] took a decision concerning deployment in Western Europe of new types of nuclear missile weapons. The decision, without any doubt, has become a factor hindering the process ofdetente, and not on a European scale alone. Dealing as it does a blow at the principle of equal security of the parties, it aims-which is particularly dangerous-at the lowering ofthe threshold for the use of nuclear weapons. It carries a threat ofinconceiva- ble consequences for the nations of Europe and for world peace. 72. Poland, therefore, supports the constructive proposals of the Soviet Union to their full extent and declares itself in favour of negotiations on nuclear missile weapons in Europe. We welcome the announcement of a prompt com- mencement of such negotia.tions and hope for their success. 73. Seven years have passed since the initiation of the Vienna Talks on the Mutual Reduction of Forces, Arma- ments and Associated Measures in Central Europe. Poland is unceasingly interested in a prompt and meaningful break- through in these talks, so that they produce appropriate agreements. The latest proposals presented by States parties to the Warsaw Treaty constitute another significant step towards bringing the respective positions closer together. 74. Considering the realities of the situation now obtain- ing on the European continent, we believe there is urgent need to elaborate a satisfactory negotiating formula con- cerning military detente and disarmament. This, in our opinion, could be made possible by taking up and develop- ing the idea ofa conference on military detente and disarma- ment in Europe, which has been advanced by the States parties to the Warsaw Treaty. Such a conference should agree upon confidence-building measures and subsequently lead to a reduction of military confrontation and a limita- tion of military activities in that important part ofthe world which has the greatest accumulation ofdangerous weapons. 75. In reiterating early this year the proposal to convene the conference, Poland offered to act as host to it in its capital. This would be an honour for our country, and Warsaw, we believe, would bea worthy and proper place to hold such an important international meeting. 76. Poland will seek a decision" during the Madrid meeting which will make it possible to convene such a conference in the shortest possible time. Its deliberations would make a valuable contribution to the consolidation of a broad and positive process, combining political and military detente into one inseparable whole. 78. In the present complex situation, it is important to initiate realistic steps with a view to reducing the danger of war. That is the idea behind the proposais submitted the other day by the Minister for Foreign Affairs ofthe Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, Andrei Gromyko [6th meeting]. They include most timely postulates concerning non- expansion of existing military-political groupings and renunciation, as from 1 January 1981, of the expansion of armed forces and conventional armaments. Other impor- tant proposals made by the Soviet Union cover negotiations with a view tc granting appropriate guarantees to non- nuclear-weapon States as well as the prompt conclusion of an international treaty on the complete and general prohibi- tion of nuclear-weapon tests. In our opinion, giving effect to these proposals would considerably reduce the direct threats facing mankind today. They contain an initiative which, when taken up, would give a new, broader dimension to the struggle for a more secure world for us and for the genera- tions to come. 79. We believe that, in view of the special significance of disarmament in the nuclear field, the strengthening of the regime of non-proliferation of nuclear weapons retains its lasting importance. In this context, it is worth stressing the validity of the idea of nuclear-free zones in Europe also, and zones of peace in different regions ofthe world, for instance, in the region of the Indian Ocean, as well as the validity of the idea of strengthening security assurances to non- nuclear-weapon States. 80. At the recently concluded Second Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, we paid special attention to measures aimed at the strengthening of the regime of non- proliferation, which would also be compatible with the inter- ests of peaceful utilization of nuclear energy. 81. The concern for the future ofthe world and for the fate of nations makes it imperative to break out of the vicious circle of tensions and conflicts by seeking just and enduring solutions to acute political problems in different regions of the world. In reducing and extinguishing hotbeds of tension and conflict, we recognize an important component of the struggle for the strengthening of international security. To the best ofour ability, we have taken and are still taking part in the efforts aimed at their solution pursued both within and outside the United Nations. 83. It is imperative to ensure peaceful development, good- neighbourly relations and co-operation for all nations of South-East Asia. A good basis to achieve this has been provided by the proposals of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and ofa number of other States. The acceptance of political realities, including the recognition of the People's Republic of Kampuchea and its Government and the termi- nation of hegemonistic pressures against the States of Indo- China, constitute an important condition for a process of stabilization and co-operation in the region. 84. Realism, honesty, the right to progressive transforma- tions and security-these are the guiding elements of our approach to the complex problems of South-West Asia, including the situation concerning the Democratic Republic of Afghanistan. We support the initiatives of the Govern- ment of Afghanistan towards solving the existing issues through mutual recognition, in the spirit of good- neighbourliness and co-operation. 85. On the twentieth anniversary of the historic Declara- tion on the Granting ofIndependence to Colonial Countries and Peoples [resolution /5/4 (XV)], we could not stress more emphatically the need for immediate and final eradication of the remnants of colonialism in southern Africa and of its particularly abhorrent form, apartheid. The elimination of the vestiges of colonialism and of all forms of neo-colonial dependence is also an essential prerequisite for ensuring world peace, justice and the security of nations. 86. Poland is in full solidarity with the peoples of Africa, Asia and Latin America fighting for their national and social liberation, the consolidation of their statehoods and their socio-economic development. We feel close to the main themes and objectives formulated by them, interalia, in the resolutions of the Shah Conference of Heads of State or Government of Non-Aligned Countries, heldat Havana from 3 to 9 September 1979. 14 We highly appreciate the constructive role played by the non-aligned movement in international relations. 87. We view with understanding and sympathy the eco- nomic claims of the developing countries emanating from their long-term legitimate interests and objectives. At the recently concluded eleventh special session of the General Assembly, we presented Poland's position regarding these matters. IS To the best of our ability, we shall act jointly in developing a new, just world economic order, Our position of principle has been repeatedly placed on record on various occasions, also in the course of formulating the Interna- tional Development Strategy for the Third United Nations Development Decade. 88. We realize the significance of and support the concept of global negotiations on economic co-operation for devel- 14See document A/34/542. 89. Poland is vitally interested in the expansion ofcompre- hensive co-operation with the countries ofAsia, Africa and Latin America. We are linked to many ofthem by intensive and mutually advantageous trade exchanges and industrial co-operation, as wellas collaboration in the sphere ofinvest- ments, science, technology, culture and training of person- nel. We shall consistently strive to expand this co-operation in the spirit of the idea of partnership for development. 90. I have outlined in general terms Poland's position with respect to the key issues of the international situation as it obtains at present. I realize that I may have left out many important and crucial issues. They will be dealt with, though, by members of my delegation in other statements during the Assembly's current session. 91. The awareness that we have to live and act in a world full of complex problems and tensions should stimulate us to even more active endeavours. In the interest of world peace and in the interest ofprogress and mankind's develop- ment, the entire international community should concen- trate on activities covering these fundamental objectives: we should strive, by way of concrete action, not only to main- tain, but greatly to intensify the international dialogue on the basic issues of international security and co-operation: we should bring about, through a co-operative effort, the consolidation of the process of political detente and its extension into the military field: we should make a genuine break through in the efforts to halt the arms race and proceed to real disarmament; we should demonstrate the maximum political goodwill and wisdom inaction aimed at reducing tensions and strengthening peace and security in different regions of the world; last but not least. we should strive energetically to overcome the obstacles on the road towards the establishment of a new international economic order based upon the principles of justice and equality and enhancing the solution of difficult and complex problems of socio-economic development. 92. Poland appreciates the important role which the United Nations can and should play in the strengthening of peace and security, in the development of friendly relations between nations and in the expansion of international co- operation. What counts is the fullest possible utilization of the possibilities offered by the constitution of the Organiza- tion, the Charter of the United Nations, in initiating actions of both global and complementary regional dimensions, for peace is an indispensable prerequisite for the successful solution of other pressing international problems, in partic- ular for accelerating socio-economic development. 93. In the course of the 35 years ofexistence ofthe Organi- zation, the world has time and again lived through difficult moments. Thanks to joint efforts, we have managed so far to weather the crises. The United Nations has taken an active part in these efforts, becoming ever stronger and richer with new experience. Today, the Organization is faced with par- ticularly important tasks. In declaring my country's readi- ness to co-operate, I wish to stress that Poland has followed,

It is a great pleasure for me to convey to you, Sir, our warmest congratulations on your election as President ofthe thirty-fifth session of the General Assembly. I avail myself of this opportunity to stress the satisfaction of the Roman- ian Government at the development achieved during the last few years in relations between Romania and the country which you represent, the Federal Republic of Germany. 95. This session ofthe General Assembly iscarrying out its work in the context of a particularly complex international situation. The Romanian Government considers that the threats to international peace and security and to the inde- pendence and free development of peoples, more than ever in the past, call for the United Nations and for all States, irrespective of their size, to take action in a spirit of high responsibility to settle, on just and equitable bases and in the interest of all peoples, the problems today confronting mankind. 96. The peoples of the world expect this session of the world forum to open new prospects for the prevention of growing international tension, for the resumption and con- tinuation of the policy of detente, independence, peace and co-operation; for the complete elimination from interna- tional relations of the policy of force and threat of force; for the settlement, exclusively by peaceful means, ofall disputes among States; for the cessation of the arms race and the urgent adoption of practical measures of disarmament, primarily nuclear disarmament; for the eradication of underdevelopment and the establishment of a new interna- tional economic order; for the democratization of interna- tionallife in its entirety; and for the strengthening ofthe role of the United Nations and its contribution to the consolida- tion of peace and co-operation among nations. 97. Since the thirty-fourth session of the General Assem- bly, particularly in the first part of this year, international life has been fraught with tension which has seriously endan- gered the policy of detente, peace and national indepen- dence. This situation, which is the result of the intensification of a policy of division and consolidation of zones of influence and spheres of domination, the sharpen- ing of contradictions between States and groups of States, the acceleration of the arms race, and the deepening of the gap between the rich and poor countries. This situation has been aggravated by the deepening ofthe economic crisis and by the energy crisis, particularly as it affects oil, and by the delay in the settlement of situations oftensions and conflict, including existing hotbeds of war, because of the emergence of new confrontations. 98. At present, as a result of the peoples' struggle and the vigorous reaction of world public opinion and the progres- 99. Developments in world affairs have convincingly Shown that international peace and co-operation depend essentially on respect for the right of each people to decide its own destiny, strict and consistent observance of the principles of independence, sovereignty, and equality of rights, non-interference in internal affairs and mutual advantage in relations among all States. Everyday life con- stantly offers fresh proofthatthe observance.ofthose princi- ples is the cornerstone of international peace and security and that the main cause of tension, conflict and upheavals around the world can in the main be traced to violations of those principles. Those situations are the result of the mani- festations ofthe anachronistic imperialist policy offorce and diktat, and interference in the internal affairs of other peoples. 100. As was recently pointed out by President Nicolae Ceausescu: "Romania has declared and declares itself firmly against the policy of tension and force. Our country strives for the settlement of matters in dispute by political negotiations only, on the basis of observance of each people's independence and of non-interference in inter- nal affairs. We are convinced that the peoples, the pro- gressive anti-imperialist forces, have the capacity to prevent the worsening of the international situation, to ensure the resumption of the policy ofdetente, peace and respect for national independence and to bring about conditions in which all peoples can focus their energies on economic and social development." 10I. In this spirit, the Socialist Republic of Romania and President Ceausescu carry out wide-ranging intensive activi- ties on the international scene. Proceeding from the right and duty of each country, irrespective of its size, strength or social and economic system, to take part in the settlement of problems of concern to the international community as a whole, the President of Romania has maintained and main- tains direct dialogue with a great number of heads of State or Government, and with political leaders in socialist, devel- oping and developed countries. Romania's international activity has constantly been designed to foster the peaceful approach to problems confronting mankind and the achievement of solutions through negotiations in accord- ance with the interests of the freedom and independence of peoples, peace, security and co-operation among nations. 102. .Romania is developing relations of friendship, soli- darity and co-operation with all socialist States, strengthen- ing the multisided co-operation with developing and non-aligned countries, extending its relations with all coun- tries of the world, and taking an active part in the world exchange of values. Romania's international relations are part of the universal process of free and independent affir- mat ion of nations, a contribution to the promotion of the policy of peace, detente, understanding and equal co- operation among all countries of the world. 104. Serious and ditlicult as the problems between States may be. nothing can justify the avoidance or abandonment of political means of settlement; nothing can justify recourse to force or the threat of force. Reality is a forceful factual witness that. when the path ofnegotiations has been chosen. appropriate solutions have been found to the most thorny problems. or at least a diminution of tension has been achieved. IOS. In this context.Lshould like to stress that last year, in requesting the inclusion in the agenda ofthe General Assem- bly of the item entitled the "Settlement by peaceful means of disputes between States"," Romania proceeded from the need to make use of the possibilities provided by the United Nations and its Charter to act more effectively to prevent and settle conflicts between States on justand durable bases. The extensive debate on this item revealed wide adherence by States to this basic principle ofthe Charter. and a consen- sus on the importance of preparing a declaration of the General Assembly on the peaceful settlement of disputes between States was reached [resolution 34//02]. We con- sider that such a declaration. as a first step towards the adoption ofa world treaty embodying firm commitments in this field, would have a positive impact on world political life and would help to enhance international legality. 106. The setting up of a permanent commission of the General Assembly for good offices and conciliation, which would function ill close connexion with the Security Council in order better to fulfil the responsibilities of the United Nations in the maintenance of international peace and secu- rity, would be a substantial contribution to the strengthen- ing of the role of the United Nations in the peaceful settlement, and particularly in the prevention, of disputes between States. 107. As a representative of a European country, I should like to refer to the new prospects opened up by the Helsinki Conference and the Final Act adopted five years ago. Unfor- tunately, subsequent developments in Europe have not.lived up to the expectations of peoples; in the past five years the arms race has continued and intensified, the accumulation of weapons of increasingly destructive capacity has con- tinued without interruption, and foreign troops and military 11" Ibid... Thirty-fourth Session, Annexes, agenda item 122. document A/34/143. 108. Romania, like other European States, has a vital interest in putting an end to the deployment on the continent of new medium-range nuclear missiles. For this reason, we strongly support the opening of negotiations on this issue. We conside. that the proposals put forward in this respect by the Soviet Union are good, and on that basis negotiations for the cessation of the deployment of new missiles could start. The Romanian Government also supports the earliest possible ratification of the SALT 11 Treaty. 109. Attaching great importance to the careful prepara- tion and smooth functioning of the Madrid meeting, we are endeavouring to ensure that that meeting will give a new and strong impetus to the policy ofdetente and totheimplemen- tation in full of the documents signed at Helsinki, reaffirm the principles contained in the Final Act, agree on the convening of a European conference on the strengthening of trust and disarmament, adopt measures aimed at expanding co-operation in various fields such as energy, transport, the environment and industrial co-operation, as well as in the fields of cultural and artistic exchanges, and at the same time reach an agreement to ensure the continuity of meetings dealing with European security. 110. Romania is striving for the development of bilateral and multilateral co-operation among the Balkan States and for the transformation of the Balkans intoa region of peace, good-neighbourliness and confidence, into a zone free of nuclear weapons, as an integral part ofthe efforts devoted to detente and European security. Ill. Allow me to express from this rostrum the deep concern of the Romanian Government and people at the dangerous situation caused by the continuation and intensi- fication of the arms race, which has acquired huge dimen- sions and leads to greater and greater waste of financial, material and human resources and to a further increase of insecurity and the danger of war. In the circumstances, where so many grave problems still remain to be settled in order to ensure the economic and social progress of each country, the burden of armaments on all peoples has become unbearable. Such a situation cannot last any longer. 112. In the present international situation, the cessation of the increase in military expenditures and the adoption of firm measures to reduce military budgets, armaments and armed forces represent a task of the utmost urgency and importance. This would save each year resources amounting to dozens and dozens of billions of dollars which could be used for the economic and social development of each nation, particularly for achieving more rapid progress in the developing countries. 113. Romania, acting in accordance with its concernsand its stand on this matter, recently decided-for the third time-to reduce its military expenditures for 1980 by 16 per cent and to devote the funds thus saved to the implementa- tion of the programme designed to raise the living standards of the people. 115. The Romanian Government considers that the con- cluding of international agreements on the freezing and reduction of military expenditures would be an important step in that direction and therefore it has presented practical proposals to that end. Of great importance would be the achievement of international agreements under which States, particularly those heavily armed, would commit themselves, until new agreements on the freezing and reduc- tion of military budgets had been concluded, to show self- restraint with regard to increases of military expenditures. 116. We regard as positive the fact that the Disarmament Commission at its last session began a more thorough exam- ination of the problem of military budgets. Romania will at this session present a draft resolution. It is our hope that at the next stage the United Nations will embark upon the identification and drafting of principles which would govern the activities of States in the matter of the freezing and reduction of military budgets. 117. In the view of Romania, among the disarmament measures absolute priority must be given to the matter of nuclear disarmament. We are, obviously. aware that dis- armament is a complex, long-term process. Therefore we believe that it would be particularly important to adopt partial measures, such as the abolition of foreign military bases, the withdrawal of all troops and armaments within national borders and the dissolution of military blocs. Such measures would strengthen confidence among States and would open the way to general and complete disarmament. 118. In the opinion of the Romanian Government. the tenth special session, the first special session of the General Assembly devoted to disarmament, established a more dem- ocratic organizational framework for the consideration and solution of these problems. Certain positive results achieved in the work of the Committee on Disarmament at Geneva confirm this assessment. It is essential now to use this frame- work, and, first of all, the Committee on Disarmament, for the negotiation and adoption of practical measures of disarmament. 119. Taking into account developments in weaponry, which are increasingly dangerous to world peace, it isneces- sary to do everything to ensure that the preparation for the second special session of the General Assembly devoted to disarmament and the work done at that session will produce a radical improvement in the endeavours of the entire inter- national community to achieve disarmament. 121. The existing and deepening gaps between the rich and poor countries are not unavoidable. The situation is perpet- uated by the present structure and machinery of the world economy and by the maintenance of inequitable relations and a system of international economic relations in which the rich become increasingly richer and the poor increas- ingly poorer. 122. It is an undeniablefact that the developed countries have accumulated the riches they have today not only through their own efforts, but also through the exploitation over centuries of dozens and dozens of other peoples. Another fact, which cannot help but cause anxiety, is that the rich countries are not only opposed to radical changes that need to be made in the existing machinery for interna- tional co-operation, but they resort, on a large scale, to new and insidious forms of exploitation of the weaker countries and obstruct the access of those countries to the achieve- ments of contemporary progress. 123. The persistance and deepening ofthe phenomenon of under-development, the grave implications ofthe economic, energy and raw materials crises and of the monetary and financial crises, have very adverse effects on the economies of all countries and especially on those of the developing countries. Those factors undermine their programmes of national development, aggravate distrust and contradic- tions, conflict and tension, and represent a direct threat to international peace and security. 124. The liquidation of under-development certainly implies above all the efforts of the developing countries themselves and broadening of co-operation among them, together with radical changes in current international eco- nomic relations and machinery which should ensure the development of relations based on equity and equality. The active participation of the rich countries in this process and the substantial support that those countries should give the developing countries are not questions of charity, but of justice and international morality, an imperative demand of progress in a world of increasing interdependency, anessen- tial prerequisite of international economic and political stability. 125. Experience has clearly shown that the problems of under-development, of the normal functioning and stability of the world economy, cannot be solved through superficial measures, but rather call for far-reaching changes, both in the economic structures and the international flows and machinery and in the transfer of technology and the grant- ing of technical assistance, and at the same time, in the mobilization, for development. of all material, financial and human resources. We should like to stress. in this respect also, Romania's proposal. made together with other States, that the savings effected through a 10 to 15 per cent reduc- 126. Romania, together with the other States members of the Group of 77, submitted at the eleventh special session 17 considerations and proposals stressing the urgent need to embark purposefully on the negotiation of practical meas- ures, in accordance with the requirements of the new inter- national economic order. 127. The Romanian Government considers that the basic objective of the present session remains the launching in 1981 of comprehensive negotiations and the concentration of efforts on reaching integrated and world-wide solutions within the framework of the United Nations and, with the participation of all Member States. These solutions should provide answers to the urgent problems and, at the same time, respond to the long-term interests of the progress of the developing countries and of a healthy and stable expan- sion of the world economy as a whole. In order to prevent grave implications both for the developing and the devel- oped countries, and for international economic and political life, it is imperative to carry through rapid and resolute actions to deal with the problems of energy, external debt, access to financial markets, reform of the international monetary system and the campaign against protectionism. in order to establish a new international division of labour and new economic relations. 128. It is necessary to understand that stability and lasting peace in the world, the independent affirmation of peoples, require the elimination of the serious anomaly of under- development which keeps the majority of the world's popu- lation in a state of poverty, hunger and backwardness. 129. Romania, like other States, is deeply concerned by the maintenance and worsening of tension and conflict and by the emergence of hot beds .of war and armed confronta- tions in different parts of the world, since they endanger international peace and security. 130. We should like to reaffirm Romania's unshakeable view that all States should direct and intensify their efforts, and do their utmost to bring about, as quickly as possible, settlement of disputes between States by political means only, through negotiations, completely avoiding armed con- frontation and the use of force. 131. In this spirit, Romania has constantly declared itself, and does so again, in favour of a political settlement of the problems of the Middle East and of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in that part of the world. That would require Israel's withdrawal from all Arab territories occu- pied in 1967, including Arab Jerusalem, settlement of the question of the Palestinian people on the basis of their right to self-determination, the establishment of a national inde- pendent State, and a guarantee of the independence and territorial integrity of all States in the area. We consider it J7/bid., Eleventh Special Session, Plenary Meetings and Annexes. agenda item 7, document A/S-II/25, para, 16, 132. Romania stands for a political settlement ofthe situa- tion in Afghanistan. leading to the cessation of all external assistance to the anti-governmental forces and, at the same time, to the withdrawal of Soviet military units from that country. It stands for respect ofthe independence and sover- eignty of Afghanistan, for the respect of the right of the Afghan people freely to decide their own development, in accordance with their own national will and interests. We want to see direct negotiations started between the Afghan Government and the Governments of neighbouring States, which should lead to the settlement of the problems, to the normalization ofthe situation in the area and to the develop- ment of good neighbourly relations among all States in that region of the world. 133. We are also in favour of a political solution to the question of Cyprus by negotiations between the two com- munities. which should ensure the independence, sover- eignty, territorial integrity. unity and non-alignment of the Republic of Cyprus, co-operation and the peaceful coexist- ence of the two Cypriot communities. 134. We wish to reaffirm. on this occasion too. our full solidarity with the just struggle ofthe Korean people to fulfil their national ideal-the independent, peaceful and demo- cratic reunification of the country by the Koreans themselves-on the basis of the constructive proposals put forward by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and of the provisions of resolution 3390(XXX) adopted by the General Assemblyon 18 November 1975. 135. One imperative of our times isthe complete eradica- tion of the vestiges of colonialism, of the policy of racial discrimination and apartheid. We welcomed with satisfac- tion the proclamation of the new State ofZimbabwe and its admission into the great family of the United Nations and, under the new conditions, we wish to develop further the relations of friendship and solidarity already established between the Romanian people and the Zimbabwean people during the long struggle of the latter against colonial domi- nation and to achieve independence. We give our full sup- port to the struggle of the Namibian people, led by the South West Africa People's Organization, for the earliest possible achievement of its full national independence. 136. We support and feel full solidarity with the peoples of southern Africa in the struggle they arc waging to put an end to the policy of apartheid and all racial discrimination, and to stop the acts of aggression being committed by the South African regime against neighbouring independent countries. We consider that the United Nations and all' the States Members of the Organization should do their utmost to put 137. For some time problems connected with the free and full development of the human personality have held the attention of the international community. 138. The Romanian delegation believes that debates on human rights should place a particular emphasis on the fundamental right of people and nations to life, peace and a free and independent existence, which are supreme values to which all nations aspire and on whose fulfilment depend respect for and the exercise of all the other fundamental human rights and freedoms. 139.. The. Romanian delegation will support the further consideration by the General Assembly of the universal impl~mentation of the right to education, since it is deeply convinced that the development ofeducation and the train- ing of national personnel, particularly in the developing countries, are primary requirements for ensuring the broad development of the human personality and for the over-all progress of society. 140. Wit~ regard to the decision of the General Assembly on the designation of 1985 as International Youth Year with th~ theme of participation, development and peace: [resolution 34//5/] we believe that it is necessary to make !horo~gh ~reparations for this in order to encourage the intensification of United Nations activities for and concern with youth. which is an important social force for progress. democracy and peace. 141., The solut~o.n of the complex problems of our times requiresthe par~lclpation on a basis of equality ofall States. Irrespective ofsize or social system. and especially that ofthe small and medium-sized countries. the developing countries an~ t~e non-aligned countries. which constitute the great majority of our world. 142. It is necessary that the United Nations and other international organizations should play an increasingly active role in the democratic and equitable solution of the problems confronting mankind by promoting a policy of peace and detente and of respect for the national indepen- dence of all peoples. Romania is in favour ofintensifying the efforts of the Special Committee on the Charter of the United Nations and on the Strengthening of the Role of the Organization to identify new ways and practical measures to enable the United Nations to discharge its great responsibil- ity for the defence of international peace and security and the development of co-operation among all States. 143. The Romanian delegation is participating in this ses- sion of the General Assembly in the conviction that. given the present international circumstances, the United Nations should involve itself more directly in the prevention and elimination of crises and conflicts and in the promotion of effective action capable of furthering understanding and peaceful co-operation among all countries. 144. I wish to express from this rostrum. on behalfof the Romanian Government. Romania's determination closely

Mr. President, on behalf of the Australian delegation. I should like to add my very warm congratulations to those already expressed on your election as President of the General Assembly. I have no doubt that you will serve the Assembly with distinction and I offer you the fullest co-operation of my delegation. 146. .I wish also to express my Government's recognition of the continuing contribution made to the United Nations by Ambassador Salim, who brought to the office of Presi- dent great diplomatic skill and wise counsel. 147. Since the thirty-fourth session of the General Assem- bly, Zimbabwe and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines have joined the United Nations. I should like to extend a very warm welcome to these fellow members of the Common- wealth, with whom we look forward to working closely in the common tasks that lie ahead. 148. I do not believe that there is anyone here-indeed I do not believe that there is an informed person anywhere- who would contest the fact that the international situation has deteriorated seriously since we met here a year ago. While there are differences as to causes, motivations and responsibilities, the sense that we have entered a new and dangerous period is almost universal. So far, this period lacks a label, lacks a name. That, I believe, is no accident. We can be sure that it is not due to any lack of effort on the part of journalists, academics and speech writers. What stands out as we contemplate the current scene is its great complexity. and complexity resists labels. 149. The absence of a label, the fact that we are confront- ing a crisis without a name, is indicative ofa deeper problem: the absence of any agreed conceptual map of the historical territory into which we are advancing. The problem is not that there is no map. but rather that tt 're are many different ones. Some have pulled down from the shelf, either reluc- tantly or enthusiastically, the old cold-war map ofthe 19505. Some cling with diminishing hope to the detente map of the 1970s.Third world spokesmen are understandably reluctant to surrender the North-South map they have drawn in recent decades.. 150. The reality is that none ofthese maps isadequate, but that all are relevant. For we are confronting a multidimen- sional crisis in which what have hitherto been semi- autonomous issues or areas of international politics are being drawn closely together and superimposed on each other: We have spoken much of interdependence in this forum over the last decade. It has now become increasingly evident that interdependence applies not only to countries but to issues and to realms of activity. 151. I believe that perhaps the most serious danger we face at present is that, confronted with what is simultaneously unfamiliar. turbulent and dangerous.a sense of unmanage- 152. Thirty-five years ago, the peoples of the United Nations expressed their determination to save succeeding generations from the scourge ofwar. To a remarkable extent we succeeded-to the extent, that is, that in a period of intense and bitter great-Power rivalry, a rivalry which in terms of all historical precedents should have resulted in armed conflict, a third world war was averted. In a period of pessimism, that is worth remembering and weighing in the balance. 153. That having been said, however, it must be recog- nized that the fact that we have avoided conflagration on a global scale is no consolation to the ravaged peoples of Indo-China, Afghanistan, the Horn of Africa, the Middle East or other lands. The ideals and objectives ofthe Organi- zation have been brutally assaulted by the actions of certain of its Members. Now, no lessthan in 1945, the international community is faced with the tragic plight of millions of people-killed, maimed or rendered homeless and hungry by the scourge of war. Where weshould be devoting a major part of our'collective energy to meeting the developmental needs of the poorer countries and communities of this world, we find that energy divided and diminished by inter- State and inter-group ambitions and rivalries which do nothing for mankind other than to add to its burden of misery.and deprivation, a burden borne mostly by the poor- est and most disadvantaged. 154. The first Articles of the Charter affirm that all Members shall refrain from the threat or use. offorce against the territorial integrity or political independence of any State. 155. What, however, is, for example, the situation in Indo- China, a region of particular concern to Australia? There is growing great-Power rivalry; 200,000 occupation troops remain in Kampuchea; and there is the consequent lack of any opportunity for the Kampuchean people to choose their own Government. In addition, there are threats to the secu- rity of Thailand, made manifest by the incursion of Vietna- mese troops into Thailand earlier this year. Those are the causes of regional political instability and tension. They are also the causes of human suffering on a scale which is affecting the life of the whole region. 156. Australian policy in this situation is based on the resolution adopted last year [resolution 34122], in which the Assembly called for the withdrawal of foreign forces from Kampuchea and for an act of self-determination by the Khmer people. Our support for those principles remains as strong as ever. A peaceful and secure South-East Asia can- not be achieved until a political settlement has been reached in Kampuchea which is acceptable to all parties concerned and which gives full opportunity to the Kampuchean people to determine their own style ofgovernment and way of life. We accept that Viet Nam has legitimate interests to safe- guard in regard to Kampuchea. What we cannot accept is 157. Australia has participated actively in the interna- tional efforts to alleviate the suffering of the Kampuchean people, both within Kampuchea itself and in refugee camps in Thailand. Australian contributions, both governmental and private, to international humanitarian relief pro- grammes to date exceed $A 24 million. Those international efforts have been necessary not only to meet the desperate and immediate needs of the Kampuchean people but to provide the basis for their eventual self-sufficiency. The achievements of the programme sponsored by the United Nations have been significant. Both common humanity and the peace and stability of the region demand that the effort be sustained until a lasting solution is found. 158. Indo-China is not the only point of danger. The activities of the Soviet Union in Afghanistan and elsewhere have inevitably impaired the international climate of trust necessary for the negotiation ofeffectivearms-control meas- ures. That is particularly true with respect to theprepara- tions for the Conference, to be held in Sri Lanka, on the implementation of the Declaration of the Indian Ocean as a Zone of Peace [resolution 2832 (XXVI)]. We must consider the proximity of Afghanistan to the Indian Ocean, as wellas the general climate of apprehension and uneasiness among the littoral and hinterland States of the region which.Soviet activity has brought about. The massive military build-up and deployment in the regionof the Indian Ocean has cast an ominous shadow over efforts to bring about peace in that region and consequently over preparations for a conference aimed at the creation of a zone of peace. 159. It is difficult to envisage how we could expect a conference to produce a declaration on a zone ofpeace when one of the hinterland States ofthe region isforcibly occupied by one 'of the Powers which would attend the conference. It is, however, preciselyduring periods ofinternational tension that we must redouble our collective efforts to work out effective arms control measures. 160. With that in mind, Australia is working actively with the other members of the AdHoc Committee on the Indian Ocean to work out arrangements for the eventual holding of a conference which would make a positive contribution to the implementation of the Declaration of the Indian Ocean as a Zone of Peace. 161. Across the Indian Ocean from Australia, the prob- lems of southern Africa continue to preoccupy the United Nations and the international community. The peaceful accession ofZimbabwe to independence and membership in the United Nations contrasts starkly with the continuing bleak situation in Namibia and South Africa. As a member of the United Nations Council for Namibia, Australia has been closely involved in United Nations attempts to resolve the problems posed by South Africa's illegal administration of the Territory. The Australian Government supportsfully 162. Just as my Government deplores the failure of the South African authorities so far to make possible the imple- mentation of the United Nations plan for Namibia, so do we deplore the apartheid policiesof the South African Govern- ment. We have heard the qualified promises from South African leaders that they willconsider reforms. With that in mind, Australia calls on South Africa to adopt substantial and early measures to dismantle the repressive apartheid system and to redress the injustices which so many of its citizens suffer. The longer those processes are postponed, the more difficult it will become to bridge the deep divisions which characterize South African society, and the more likely it is that the political violence which has become an increasingly common feature of life in South Africa will escalate to the detriment of all the peoples there. 163. One area of tension in which there has been some positive movement is that of Cyprus. Australia welcomes the resumption on 9 August of the intercommunal talks on Cyprus sponsored by the United Nations and sincerely hopes that the new round of negotiations will lead steadily towards a comprehensive solution. 164. In this context, I recall that at the Meeting of Com- monwealth Heads of Government, held at Lusaka in August 1979, it was decided to ask the Commonwealth Secretary-General to convene the Commonwealth Commit- tee on Cyprus at the ministerial level whenever appropriate. While we believethat the intercommunal talks offer the best avenue for an enduring settlement in Cyprus, depending on the progress made at those talks, there may well be a need for the Commonwealth aspect to be further explored. 165. Moving across the Mediterranean we find, regret- fully, that the situation in the Middle East continues to deteriorate. Indeed, since I last spoke to the Assembly condi- tions there have clearly come to pose a grave threat to international peace. 166. The Australian Government will support any well- founded steps which bring hope of a comprehensive and lasting peace in the Middle East. Any solution must clearly incorporate the principles embodied in Security Council resolution 242(1967), together with recognition ofthe legiti- mate political rights of the Palestinian people. 167. The Australian Government welcomes the contribu- tion that the process begun at Camp David has made towards such a peace. Implementation of the bilateral aspects of that process has been one of the few positive developments in that troubled region, but, unfortunately, in other areas progress. has been minimal. Neither the funda- mental principles of Security Council resolution 242 (1967) nor recognition of the need to ensure a just future for the Palestinian people have been advanced. 169. Given the growing and understandable sense offrus- tration over this lack of progress, it is most necessary that ways of moving forward again to meaningful negotiations be actively explored. The Australian Government has noted the declaration on the Middle East by the European Com- munity heads of Government following their meeting at Venice in June of this year, and it hopes that the consulta- tions flowing from this declaration will contribute, along with the Camp David process, to the search for a compre- hensive settlement in the Middle East. 170. I could not conclude my comments on the Middle East without expressing my Government's apprehension about the threat to global peace posed by some aspects of the present situation in Iran. Iran has an important role to play in promoting stability in the Middle East region. But it is clear that this role cannot be realized while the Iranian authorities continue to flout international convention and international law by holding diplomatic hostages. The Aus- tralian Government renews the call it has made many times in the long months since the United States diplomats were seized for the quick and safe release ofall the hostages being held by the Iranian Government. 171. I began my statement by referring to the deteriorating international situation. The events of the last few days remind us most forcibly of the dangers we face.The fighting which has erupted between Iraq and Iran is a further cause for very grave concern. That fighting continues to escalate. It has created a situation fraught with danger. It could have serious and unpredictable consequences for a highly sensi- tive region of the world. The problems between Iran and Iraq are, of course, complex and of long standing. Settle- ment will not be helped if outside parties seek to meddle in the dispute for their own advantage. Already there isserious concern that the conflict could tempt others into dangerous diplomatic and even military ventures. 172. Australia joins others in urging Iran and Iraq to terminate their conflict. We welcome the initiative of the Secretary-General and the President of the Security Council in appealing for restraint and urging that Iraq and Iran negotiate a solution to their differences. Unless there is a prompt response to these appeals, we believe the Security Council should meet as a matter of urgency to consider the CriSIS. 173. Among the distressing consequences of these and other conflicts is the appalling increase in the number of refugees around the world. In the past year, we have wit- nessed the continuing tragedy of hundreds of thousands of men, women and children being forced to fleetheir homes in fGlr of their lives and liberty and to seek sanctuary else- 174. The problem is rendered the more tragic by the fact that today the largest numbers of refugeesare concentrated in the developing regions of the world, those with least resources.available to cope with such a burden. Africa has suffered particularly badly in this respect, with over 2 mil- lion refugees and displaced persons in the Horn of Africa alone. In South-East Asia, the burden of the Indo-Chinese refugee crisis has fallen particularly heavily on the countries of ASEAN, imposing great financial, social and political costs. 175. Solutions to the refugee problem can be found only with the co-operation and involvement of the world com- munity, and it is encouraging to see the increasing attention which refugee questions are receiving in international forums. In the coming months the world will have to focus greater attention on Africa, which now has more refugees than any other part of the world. It is in recognition of this crisis that Australia has fullysupported recent initiatives for the calling of a pledging conference on African refugees. 176. Australia supports the United Nations High Com- missioner for Refugees in his efforts to alleviate the distress and to promote the resettlement of dispossessed peoples around the world. We are proud of our own role as a country of resettlement for refugees. Since the Second World War, sor;e 400,000 refugees and displaced persons have found new homes in Australia. In addition to resettling refugees, we have been active in providingfinancial aid. We have contributed more than $30 million in relief assistance for refugees and displaced persons in the past two years alone. 177. However, we all know that the provision of humani- tarian assistance is not of itselfsufficient to deal with refugee problems. Long-term solutions will be found only if the underlying political causes of refugee situations are addressed. It is the duty ofthe world community to persuade those Governments concerned to accept their responsibili- ties towards their citizens and to change the policies which have led to massive refugee outflows. 178. I turn to economic issues, for the eleventh special session on development is still fresh in all our minds. At that time, I addressed in detail the major economic questions confronting the international community," and I do not intend to retrace the ground that was covered there. A word is in order. however, with regard to the final outcome of the special session. Its failure to achieve agreement on the condi- tions for launching the global round was certainly disap- pointing. The urgency and the severity of the problems of the current international economic situation require a fresh approach to the task of international economic negotiation. 180. Failure to launch the global round should not obs- cure the fact that the special session was productive ofsome valuable results. We now have an International Develop- ment Strategy for the Third United Nations Development Decade. It isa matter for satisfaction that the world commu- nity was able to agree upon a framework within which we might all approach the development needs of our time. We believe that the text agreed on in the special session should now be adopted and its implementation not be delayed. 181. A special tribute should be paid to the important contribution of the Brandt Commission to international thinking about development issues. The Commission was the result of a unique initiative and its members are to be commended for their efforts to identify areas in which the North-South dialogue might be constructively pursued and for the stress laid on interdependence and the commonality of interest of North and South. Australia sees the report of the Commission" as both significant and timely and is interested in doing what it can to give effect to the general approach taken in the report. 182. I turn now to nuclear and arms control and disarma- ment issues. The difficulties which confront the world in assuring .itself of adequate energy sources highlight the importance of nuclear energy. We have seenan encouraging level of international debate on peaceful nuclear questions over the past year, such as the International Nuclear Fuel Cycle Evaluation, which should encouragethe development over time of closer international comity on the. arrange- ments and conditions governing nuclear trade and co- operation and sensitive stages of the nuclear fuel cycle.This trend was also observed at the recent Second Review Con- ference ofthe Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons where, despite the lack ofagreement on a consensus final document, there was substantial agree- ment on most issues relating to the application of interna- tional safeguards and the arrangements covering the peaceful uces of nuclear energy. 183. The further development of nuclear energy for peace- ful purposes on a stable and secure basisdepends, ofcourse, on continuing efforts and constraints against the spread of nuclear weapons to additional countries. The relationship between the peaceful uses of nuclear energy and arms con- trol and disarmament is integral to the Treaty on the Non- Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons [resolution 2373 (XXII). tmnex), a Treaty which represents a political barrier to 19North-South: A program for survival; report of the Independent Commission on International Development Issues, under the Chair- manship of Willy Brandt (Cambridge, Massachusetts, The MIT Press, 1980). 184. It is incumbent on the international community to make continuing efforts to encourage adherence to the Treaty and to offer incentives for doing so as wellas disabili- ties for non-membership. 185. That is not to deny the necessity of further measures of nuclear arms control by the nuclear-weapons States. Australia has given strong support to the SALT process, whic.i resulted in the agreement between the United States and the Soviet Union, and trusts that it will be continued. We have also been an active proponent ofthe conclusion of a comprehensive test-ban agreement as a further restraint on the existing nuclear arsenals and a further major obstacle to the spread of nuclear weapons. The finalization of such a treaty is urgent, for the involvement of the international community through the Committee on Disarmament-to complement the efforts of the negotiating Powers-is essen- tial if the treaty is to attract widespread support. Without that support its impact would be seriously limited. 186. Events earlier this year have had an undesirably adverse effect on the degree of mutual trust and confidence necessary in bilateral and multilateral arms control negotia- tions. It is my country's hope that an atmosphere more conducive to negotiations can be restored. 187. It is encouraging that the Committee on Disarma- ment has this year got down to serious business and has succeeded in separating polemical debate from the practical consideration of substantive issues. The Committee has been able in working groups to concentrate on the negotiat- ing tasks for which it has a mandate. 188. I now turn to decolonization and the South Pacific. As others before me have noted, 1980 is the twentieth anni- versary of two landmark resolutions on decolonization adopted by this Assembly, resolutions 1514 (XV) and 1541 (XV). With one lamentable exception, all African States which were once colonies have achieved their independence, and we have seen considerable progress in the Caribbean and in the Pacific. 189. The most recent country to achieve its independence is the former condominium of the New Hebrides, the new State of Vanuatu. Australia has made known in committees of this Assembly its views on the achievement of indepen- dence by the State of Vanuatu. It is sufficient for me to say here that Australia welcomes the advent of the new State and looks forward to its becoming the newest Member of this Organization, should it decide to join the ranks. The events which followed Vanuatu'sachievement of indepen- dence, specifically on Tanna and Santo islands, have drawn 190. There is one subject on the international agenda which has progressed most positively. I refer to the Third United Nations Conference on the Law of the Sea. The resumed ninth session, which recently concluded at Geneva, has achieved significant results, reflected in the fact that the Conference now has the text of a draft convention before it. Australia was particularly pleased with the progress made. It is our hope that the package which has been negotiated will hold together and that a convention can be opened for signature in 1981. We shall be making every effort to help to achieve that goal. 191. The Charter reaffirms our faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth ofthe human person and in equal rights ofall menand women. Unhappily, it isall too easy to enumerate situations arising since the original signature of.the Charter in 1945 and the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 in which the sanctity of human life and the protection of human rights have been disregarded. The features of the current international scene that I have referred to earlier make it clear that there are formidable obstacles to progress. Human beings in many parts of the world continue to suffer the denial of their fundamental rights through political oppression, racism and foreign domination, as well as through poverty or lack of effective access to the organs of State which determine their lives. 192. From an historical perspective, however, much has been done to bring hope to the dispossessed and deprived peoples of the world. Expectations have changed. Our defi- nitions of deprivation have become more pragmatic, and today when we take account of the rights of individuals we include the rights of women, the disabled and. the elderly. And we are beginning to talk of the right to development as a human right. 193. So long as we live in a world ofsovereign States, there will always be some tension between the legitimate interests of the States and the rights of individuals. But while accept- ing that, we should always scrutinize very carefully any attempted justification of the dilution of rights in terms of reasons ofState. It should be made absolutely clear that the onus of proof lies with the Government in question. The flagrant violations ofhuman rights, for whatever reason, are a proper concern ofthe international community, and cessa- tion of the conditions of such violations can rightfully be demanded of responsible Governments. Australia is firmly committed to international action to ensure the protection ofhuman rights, and we shall continue to attach the highest priority to the full realization of that fundamental goal as pursued both specifically in United Nations human rights programmes and more broadly in the activities of the Organization as a whole. 194. I began my statement with some observations about the seriousness of the multiple crisis which the world is now facing and by recalling some of the ideas which are basic to 195. Both, in my view, are mistaken. Nothing is auto- matic, nothing is inevitable. The role which the United Nations will play in this critical period isnot predetermined. It will depend on the will and capacity which we, its Members, bring to bear to make it effectiveand to make it relevant. 196. We should recognize the limitations of what the United Nations can do. But, having recognized them, we