S/PV.1838 Security Council

The representative of a nonmember of the Council, the representative of Portugal, has addressed a letter to me requesting that he be invited to participate in the Council’s debate on the item on today’s agenda. 2. In conformity with the relevant provisions of the Charter, that is, Article 31, and in accordance with rule 37 of the provisional rules of procedure and the usual practice of the Council, I propose, if. there is no objection, to invite the representative of Portugal to participate in the Council’s discussion without the right to vote. It is so decided. 3. In accordance with the usual practice, I invite the representative of Portugal to take the place reserved for him at the side of the Council chamber. He will be invited to take a place at the Council table when it is his turn to address the Council. At the invitation of the President, Mr. Quintela Paixao (Portugal), took the place reserved for him at the side of the Council chamber.

The Security Council will now consider the report of the Committee on the Admission of New Members, which is contained in document S/11806. In paragraph 3 of that report the Committee recommends to the Security Council -- the adoption of-three--draft-resolutions. In accordance with the procedure agreed upon in the course of prior consultations among all members of the Council, I propose, as the first order of business, to put these three draft resolutions to the vote. If I hear no objection I shall consider this procedure acceptable to the members of the Council. 5. Accordingly, I shall ask members of the Council to vote first on draft resolution A contained in paragraph 3 of document S/11806, which relates to the application of the Republic of Cape Verde for admission to membership in the United Nations. A vote was taken by show of hands. The draft resolution was adopted unanimously’.

I shall now ask members to vote on draft resolution B contained in paragraph 3 of document S/11806, which relates to the application of the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe for admission to membership in the United Nations. A vote was taken by show of hands. The draft resolution was adopted unanimously2.

The Council will now proceed to vote on draft resolution C, contained in paragraph 3 of document S/11806, which relates to the application of the People’s Republic of Mozambique for admission to membership. A vote was taken by show of hands. The draft resolution was.adopted unanimously3. 9. A number of members of the Security Council have asked to be allowed to speak following the voting, and I shall now call on them.

It is a great pleasure for me, on behalf of the people, the Government and the delegation of Guyana to welcome into membership of the United Nations the three States of the Republic of Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, and the People’s Republic of Mozambique. To us, the accession by these three States to membership of this Organization is another step forward towards the achievement of the goal of universality of membership. We are satisfied, after examining the applications, that the three States fulfil the conditions for membership required by Article 4 of the Charter, which states that: “Membership... is open to all... peace-loving States which accept the obligations contained in the... Charter and, in the judgement of the Organization, are able and willing to carry out these obligations.” We take note of the solemn declarations which the three applicant States have made to the effect that they accept the obligations of the Charter and that they undertake to carry out those obligations. 11. My Government believes that the United Nations can function well only if its Members are guided in their conduct by the principles of the Charter, respect the resolutions of the General Assembly and of the Security Council, and fulfil their basic obligations as Members. 12. We have followed the heroic struggle of the peoples of Cape Verde, Sao Tome and Principe and Mozambique to achieve their independence from the colonialist yoke, and we are satisfied that they are fully qualified for membership of this Organization. 13. That colonialist yoke harnessed the people of Cape Verde for over 500 years, and the peoples of Sao Tome and Principe and Mozambique for nearly 500 years. It was half a millenium of colonialism, which saw the worst excesses of the evil of man’s domination by man. 14. The triumphant struggle of the peoples of Cape Verde, Sao Tome and Principe and Mozambique for their independence is yet another warning to the white minority regimes of southern Africa of the inevitability of the victory of the oppressed peoples still under colonial domination over the brutal forces 15. More than a warning to the colonial oppressors in southern Africa, the entry into the United Nations of these new States will serve as a symbol of eventual victory and as an incentive to the valiant fighters in Zimbabwe, Namibia, and South Africa who are so bravely struggling to free their countries of the brutalities of racial domination, oppression and exploitation. 16. In this context, Guyana notes with great satisfaction the prospect that the independence of Mozambique will mean stronger sanctions against the racist regime in Zimbabwe. Such action would be all the more commendable, given the likely impact that it would have on the economy of the fledgling nation of Mozambique. The international community can do no less than take appropriate measures to assist in alleviating the burden of this principled sacrifice. 17. So not only does my Government see the accession to membership of these three new States as another step towards universality of membership of the United Nations, but we see it also as a victory for the struggle for human dignity and a struggle which is far from over. 18. My Government supports the struggle against colonialism and racism wherever in the world it is taking place. We believe that the people in any State have the right to govern themselves and to be the masters of their own destiny. 19. But while we welcome these three new States into our membership, we should pause to reflect that the struggle for human dignity and independence continues in the remaining enclaves of racism and colonialism. It is a struggle in which all mankind must be involved, and therefore it is a struggle which must rightly concern this Organization. It is to us a source of gratification that the majority of the Members of the United Nations have pledged themselves to full support -for and solidarity with the oppressed peoples of South Africa, of Namibia, of Zimbabwe and of the territories which were under the domination of Portugal. Some, including my own Government provide moral and material assistance to these oppressed peoples, and we should not rest until the evils of colonialism and racism have been tracked down like beasts to their lairs, utterly destroyed and buried so that they no longer haunt us on the face of this earth. 20. Our own freedom to rule ourselves without interference is meaningless while there are peoples that continue to live in colonial bondage and suffer 21. As I said, it is my great pleasure to welcome into our midst these three States and to pledge to them the support of my Government as they play their part in the councils of the United Nations.

The delegation of the Soviet Union voted in favour of, the admission to United Nations membership of the young African States of the Republic of Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe and the People’s Republic of Mozambique. The delegation of the Soviet Union upheld the requests of the Governments of those countries, since their applications were in full accord with the requirements laid down by the United Nations Charter. In the applications of these countries it is emphasized that the People’s Republic of Mozambique, the Republic of Cape Verde and the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe have assumed the obligations incumbent upon them under the Charter and have solemnly pledged to fulfil them. 23. These three fledgling African States were born as a result of a lengthy and heroic struggle on the part of their peoples for their national liberation. Many years of selfless struggle on the part of the patriots of those countries for their freedom and independence and also the downfall of the fascist regime in Portugal led to the destruction of the last colonial empire. Its downfall dealt a trangible blow to imperialism and colonialism in Africa and qualitatively changed the situation in that continent and provided fresh opportunities for those forces that are struggling for liberty and progress for the African peoples. 24. A major contribution to the cause of national liberation of African peoples was the victory of the Mozambique people in a selfless anti-colonial struggle, a victory they won under the leadership of the Mozambique Liberation Front, with the support of the democratic and anti-fascist movement in Portugal and progressive forces throughout the world. 25. “The downfall of Portuguese colonialism is a major landmark in the struggle for the complete and final abolition of colonial slavery on the African continent”. This was stated in a speech made in Berlin to celebrate the twenty-fifth anniversary of the formation of the German Democratic Republic by the General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, L.I. Brezhnev, who said: “We are convinced that the day 26. The problem of the final abolition of the last bastions of colonialism and racism throughout the world is one of the most important and most acute problems of the present day which requires an immediate solution. Only the complete eradication of the vestiges of colonialism and racism can put an end to the sufferings experienced by tens of millions of people who are still living in the grip of colonial enslavement and bring about the possibility of creating the necessary conditions for successful social, economic and cultural development of the presently oppressed peoples and increasing their well-being. 27. The completion of the decolonization process, is at the same time, fully in accord with the interests of all mankind, since, as the shameful colonialist and racist blots disappear from our planet, the number of potential hotspots which are so explosive and so fraught with threat to international security will equally diminish. The resolute struggle for the liquidation of colonialism, the cessation of colonial oppression and the granting of comprehensive support and aid to those peoples that are struggling for their national independence and liberation and political and economic independence have been the focus of attention of the foreign policies and actions of the Soviet Union from the very days when it was first founded. This derives from the very nature of the Soviet socialist system and Leninist foreign policy principles and, finally, is part and parcel of our communist philosophy, which rejects any forms of social and national repression and inequality. 28. In pursuit of its policy of comprehensive support for national liberation movements, the Soviet Union in 1960, in the United Nations took the initiative of promoting the adoption’ by the General Assembly of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples [resolution 15/4 (XV)] and was an active participant in the elaboration of a number of other decisions of the United Nations which were aimed at the eradication of colonialism. In United Nations bodies and in many other international forums representatives of the Soviet Union have supported and continue to support the adoption of effective steps to remove the vestiges of colonialism, racism and apartheid. 29. The delegation of the Soviet Union would express its profound conviction that the People’s Republic of Mozambique, the Republic of Cape Verde and the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe will not only become firmly entrenched in the family of independent African States but also become full-fledged and active Members of the United Nations, and that they will make their worthy contribution to the activities of the United Nations “An important factor in contemporary international developments is the ever-growing participation of African countries in the struggle for the consolidation of peace and for sound security. The serious changes which have occurred in the world arena towards detente are helping to provide effective and equal participation of all countries and peoples in world politics.” 31. The fact that today we are considering the applications of the People’s Republic of Mozambique, the Republic of Cape-Verde-.anddthe Demo- _ cratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe to be admitted, to United Nations membership is a clear indication that this process is gathering momentum and that liberation from colonialism, racism and apartheid will triumph in the end. 32. The Soviet Union has always been on the side of those peoples that have struggled against colonialism and neocolonialism and has been in favour of the equal participation of all countries in world politics, for sound and durable peace and security for peoples. This is the aim pursued by the struggle of the Soviet State for international detente, in order to give this process an irreversible character, in order to create favourable conditions for the free and independent development of all peoples, conditions which are not darkened by any. military threat. 33. The Soviet delegation would once again like to take this opportunity to congratulate the peoples and Governments of the People’s Republic of Mozambique, the Republic of Cape Verde and the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe on gaining their independence. 34. As stated in the congratulations of the President of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the Soviet Union, by Mr. N.V. Podgorny, to the President of the Liberation Front of Mozambique and President of the People’s Republic of Mozambique, Mr. Samora Machel: “The Soviet Union, faithful to its international duty, has consistently-come out-on the--side-of--the - struggling people of Mozambique and has given them comprehensive assitance and support. In accordance with Lenin’s peace-loving policies and the foreign policies of the Soviet Union, we have declared our willingness to recognize the People’s Republic of Mozambique as a sovereign State and our readiness to establish diplomatic relations with “The gaining of independence by the people of your country is a tremendous political victory which has been won under the leadership of the African Independence Party of Guinea and Cape Verde, with the support of progressive forces throughout the world. It marks a successful struggle by the African peoples to eliminate the final bastions of colonialism and racism on the African continent.” The Soviet Union declared also its recognition of the Republic .of Cape Verde as a sovereign, independent State and expressed its readiness to establish diplomatic relations with it. 36. On the occasion of the proclamation of independence by the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Mr. ,N.V. Podgomy, sent a message to President Pinto da Costa which said in particular: “In accordance ‘with its unswerving policy of equality and friendship among States, and also guided by the principle of’ self-determination of peoples, the Soviet Union declares its recognition of the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe as a sovereign State and its readiness to establish diplomatic relations with it.” 37. It is with a feeling of profound satisfaction that the Soviet delegation supported the decision of the Security Council to recommend that the General Assembly admit the new independent African States, namely, the People’s Republic of Mozambique, the Republic of Cape Verde and the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, to membership of the United Nations. We express our conviction that these countries will occupy a worthy place in the ranks of the full-fledged Members of our Organization and we shall be very pleased to welcome them to these halls.

In unreservedly supporting the draft resolutions in,document S/11806, whereby the Security Council has just recommended that the General Assembly admit the Republic of Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe -and the People’sRepublic of Mozambique to membership in the United Nations, my delegation wishes to indicate that we are devoted to the principle of universality of our Organization, for which we have always worked in this Council. 39. We furthermore wish to recognize unequivocally the peaceful character of the three new States 40. By voting in favour of these resolutions my delegation wished to give concrete embodiment to the natural friendship and solidarity that characterize relations between the Government and the people of the Cameroons and the Governments and peoples of the States of Cape Verde, Sao Tome and Principe, and Mozambique. 41. It should be pointed out that these excellent relations are drawn not only from obvious geographical factors and historical factors which are centuries old but, above all, from our common aspirations for. peace, our unconditional devotion to the cause of African unity, for the liberation of our continent from the yoke of colonialism, neocolonialism and racism, and the will of our Governments to develop their co-operation on the basis of the principles of sovereign equality, non-interference in internal affairs and mutual advantages. 42. It was in that brotherly spirit that the President of the United Republic of Cameroon recently addressed messages of congratulations to his colleagues of Cape Verde, Sao Tome and Principe, and Mozambique on the occasion of the accession of their respective countries to independence. We shall reserve for the Minister for Foreign Relations of Cameroon the privilege of reiterating those congratulations when the three States are admitted to membership of the United Nations by the General Assembly. 43. It is the firm hope of my delegation that, now that they have become masters of their destiny, the peoples of the three new republics will-be true partners in the United Nations family and that their contribution to the solution of the grave challenges that mankind faces will be appreciated by all States. 44. Furthermore, assessing the vastness of the urgent and crucial problems resulting from the devastations of war, prolonged colonial exploitation and unfavourable climatic conditions which the leaders of the new countries must face at present, my delegation sincerely hopes that the assistance which our Organization already provides in this field will be continued more vigorously than in the past in order effectively to second the reconstruction efforts of the Governments of the three new States. 45. My delegation could not end this statement without justly expressing its appreciation of the 46. In recalling this fortunate evolution of Portugal’s African policy, my Chief of State, El Hadj Ahmadou Ahidjo, indicated at the time that he congratulated the new Portugal for the faith, speed, scrupulous co-operation and realism that it had brought to the decolonization of Africa, an attitude which enabled it to regain a full measure of esteem and consideration in the concert of nations. 47. It is with these words of friendship and encouragement that my delegation expresses the hope that the new regime of Portugal will be able to continue unflaggingly to assume its responsibilities in the decolonization process which is under way so as to maintain -intact the growing prestige’ which it at - present enjoys in our Organization.

The Republic of Cape Verde, the People’s Republic of Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Sao ‘Tome and Principe submitted their applications for admission to membership in the United Nations on 21 July, 31 July and 13 August 1975, respectively. The Chinese delegation holds that in accordance with the relevant provisions of the United Nations Charter the People’s Republic of Mozambique, the Republic of Cape Verde and the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe are all qualified for membership in the United Nations. We have therefore supported their applications. 49. The people of Mozambique are a people with a glorious tradition of struggle. Over the past five centuries, they have never ceased their just struggles against the Portuguese colonialist domination and for national liberation. In 1964, the Mozambican people’s struggle for national liberation entered a new stage of people’s armed struggle. Under the, leadership of FRELIMO (Frente de LibertaGao de Mqambique) the heroic Mozambican people went through arduous and valiant armed struggles over a long period, finally won the great victory of national independence and solemnly proclaimed the establishment of the People’s Republic of Mozambique. 50. Dealing a heavy blow at imperialism, colonialism and racism, this victory has set an example for the people in the non-independent regions in southern Africa to achieve national liberation through people’s armed struggles. No doubt, it will greatly encourage and push forward the struggles of the peoples in those regions for national liberation. 51. The peoples of China and Mozambique have forged a profound militant friendship through their 52. Following the independence of Mozambique, the Republic of Cape Verde was officially proclaimed on 5 July this year; shortly thereafter, on 12 July, Sao Tome and Principe solemnly proclaimed its independence and established the Democratic Republic, thereby terminating the 5 century-old Portuguese colonialist domination in these regions. The independence of Cape Verde islands and of Sao Tome and Principe is the result of the prolonged heroic struggles carried out wave upon wave by the peoples there as well as a new victory of the hundreds of millions of African peoples in their unity against imperialism and colonialism. 53. Since the beginning of this year, one African state after another has become independent, and flags of national independence have been hoisted one after another on the militant land of Africa. This shows that the African people are marching forward victoriously on the road of anti-imperialism and anti-colonialism and that the African people’s unity and struggle are growing daily in strength. The situation in Africa is getting better and better. No amount of plots and intrigues on the part of imperialism, colonialism and hegemonism can hold back the advance of the wheel of history in Africa. 54. The Chinese Government and people will, as always, firmly support the governments and peoples of Mozambique, Cape Verde and Sao Tome and Principe in their just cause of eliminating the colonialist forces, consolidating their national independence and building their countries, and we sincerely wish them new successes. 55. We believe that upon admission to membership in the United Nations, the People’s Republic of Mozambique, the Republic of Cape Verde and the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe will make positive contributions to the realization of the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter together with all the other justice-upholding Member States.

At this time last year the Security Council decided in favour of the entry into the United Nations of Guinea Bissau [resolution 356 (1974)], the first country to accede to independence among a group of Territories which for some time had been claiming the right to choose their own destiny. In today recommending that the General Assembly 57. We voted in favour of these three applications for admission for reasons which have to do both with the application of international law and the friendship which we have for the peoples of Africa. 58. The independence of the Cape Verde islands, as provided for by the agreements signed in Lisbon on 18 December 1974, became effective on 5 July 1975. An identical process, following on the negotiations of 26 November last, was initiated in Sao Tome and Principe on 12 July. The authorities of both these States, henceforth endowed with interna-. tional personality, stated in the letter which they addressed to the Secretary-General that they would assume the obligations contained in the United Nations Charter and that they solemnly pledged to fulfil these obligations. We have taken note of these declarations and we are convinced that the Republic of Cape Verde and that of Sao Tome and Principe will scrupulously honour the commitments they have thus undertaken; we are no less convinced that, apart from certain structural modifications which might be made necessary by certain affinities between Cape Verde and a neighbouring country, which would necessarily involve changes in the representation of one of them in New York, these States will wish to a&m the personality which is conferred upon them by the status of Member State and which is defined by the Charter. 59. Mozambique, for its part, became an independent and sovereign State on 25 June 1975. The new Kamphumo authorities have also solemnly asseverated their intention to discharge the obligations incumbent upon all States seeking admission to the United Nations. We have no doubt that this country, endowed as it is with quite a considerable economic and human potential, will, after having acquired its independence as a result of a loengthy struggle, occupy in southern Africa a place which is commensurate with its importance. 60. Once all the conditions prescribed by the Charter had been met for the admission of these three States, the French delegation, faithful to the principle of universality, to which we should once again like to reaffirm our devotion, could not but vote in favour of the three applications before the Council. But other reasons also militated in favour of our decision. The French Government, which for a number of years now has forged bounds of friendship with most of the countries of Africa, will be pleased during our next session of the General 61. The French authorities have already marked the value which they attach to entertaining friendly relations with those countries. On 9 July President Giscard d’Estaing sent a message to the Head of State of Sao Tome and Principe, and we have expressed the hope that diplomatic relations will be extablished with that country, towards which a number of factors make us particularly sympathetic. We have also informed the highest authorities of Cape Verde that we recognize the new State and that the establishment of diplomatic relations would become the concrete embodiment of this recognition. 67. I should like to use this occasion to express the special satisfaction of my Government at now seeing Mozambique joining the United Nations, the determination of its people to shape its own destiny having been crowned with success. Beginning in the early sixties, Sweden co-operated with the liberation movement of Mozambique, FRELIMO, especially in the field of education and health. Therefore, for a number of years past, a solid basis has been laid for the friendship between our peoples. 68. We take this opportunity to welcome all the three applicant States and look forward to co-operating with them in the future, convinced that they will make essential contributions to the work of the United Nations. 62. Aware as we are of the economic difftculties that these two countries will have to confront-I am particularly thinking of the drought which has been affecting Cape Verde for a number of years now-the French Government is prepared, as far as it is concerned, and if it is their desire, to establish co-operation with them in order to promote satisfactory economic development to meet the needs of the populations concerned. In view of the urgency of the matter, food assistance is already under way in order to supply Cape Verde.

My delegation has welcomed the applications presented by the Republic of Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, and the People’s Republic of Mozambique, for admission to membership of the United Nations. We have found those applications to be in conformity with the relevant paragraphs of the Charter and the rules of procedure and we have been glad to vote in favour of the admission to the United Nations of these three new States. 63. We need hardly add that France is also ready to forge diplomatic relations with Mozambique. This might make it possible for the sort of co-operation to grow between the two States which could particularly affect the cultural, technical and economic areas. 70. Italy has already recognized these three Republics, which have so recently proclaimed their independence, and has expressed its readiness to establish friendly relations with each of them. I have had several occasions to reaffirm the faith of my country in the universality of the United Nations. The admission of these three States is therefore a welcome addition to the present membership, an addition aimed at maintaining a close adherence of our Organization to the existing reality of the international community. 64. The French delegation would not wish to conclude its remarks without extending its warmest congratulations to the young States, to their leaders, Mr. Aristides Pereira, President of the Republic of Cape Verde, Mr. Manuel Costa Pinto, President of the Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, and Mr. Samora Moises Machel, President of the Republic of Mozambique, as well as to the peoples of these three countries. We address to them our best wishes for felicitous development. 71. My delegation trusts that the General Assembly will confirm the recommendations of this Council so as to enable the representatives of my country to welcome these three new Member States very soon in this forum.

My country has always considered universality one of the essential cornerstones of an effective United Nations. Thus it is with great satisfaction that we note that another three States-all of which Sweden has recognized-have applied for membership of this Organization. Their admission would mark a further step towards the realization of the desired universality of the United Nations.

The delegation of Iraq is extremely pleased to have voted in favour of the draft resolutions which have just been adopted and to associate itself with the Council’s unanimous decision to recommend to the General Assembly the admission of the People’s Republic of Mozam- 66. We have on our agenda the report of the Committee on the Admission of New Members 73. The Government and the people of the Republic of Iraq had lent their unwavering support to the struggle which the freedom-fighters of these three States had to undergo for many years, and today the victories of the people of these countries, in spite of the insurmountable odds and setbacks, constitute an encouragement to all the other peoples of the African continent who are being subjected to the rule of racism, apartheid and foreign occupation and whose freedom-fighters, even at this moment, are striving by all possible means to liberate their people and lands. 74. The admission of the States of Mozambique, Cape Verde and Sao Tome and Principe to membership of the United Nations, while giving credence, we are happy to say, to the principle of universality, at the same time gives hope and adds impetus to all those people in Africa, Asia and Latin America who continue to struggle valiantly to liberate their lands and achieve their independence. The presence of Mozambique, Cape Verde, Sao Tome and Principe in the United Nations will reinforce the ranks of all peace-loving Member States in upholding the principles of the Charter. We look forward to their participation in the efforts which the international community, in particular the non-aligned States, is attempting to exert, both in the political and economic fields, to terminate and eliminate the existence of the abhorrent presence of colonial rule, foreign occupation, racism and opnrtheid in Africa, Asia and Latin America. 75. The Government of Iraq looks forward to a fruitful and positive co-operation and relations with the States of Mozambique, Cape Verde, and Sao Tome and Principe. We recognize the difficulties which the three new independent States are facing in all spheres. We therefore urge the international community represented in the United Nations to undertake the necessary steps and measures to render all assistance possible to alleviate some of these hardships and difficulties, so as to make economic and social progress possible and viable. 76. My delegation, in supporting the recommendation for the admission of the People’s Republic of Mozambique, the Republic of Cape Verde and the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe to membership of the United Nations, looks forward to co-operating and working closely with their delegations in the United Nations. 78. My delegation now greets, as future Members of the United Nations, the Republic of Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, and the People’s Republic of Mozambique, whose entry, like that of any people having achieved independence, represents a milestone in the history of their peoples as well as in the history of this Organization, which becomes stronger as the will for dialogue increases and there is a united effort for a better world, because faithful compliance with the commitments and obligations of the Charter and the political will of nations, which unite us in the efforts for peace and justice, cannot fail to render positive results for the benefit of all mankind. 79. The satisfaction of my delegation in casting a positive vote is furthermore based on the fact that we consider that resolutions concerning the admission of new Members and those intended to preserve peace and assist peoples are those which best justify the existence of the United Nations. Moreover, the votes of my delegation accord with the anti-colonialist tradition of my Government and the antidiscriminatory tradition of our country, which throughout history has considered colonialism and discrimination, whatever their expression, unjust and a threat to human dignity. Hence our attitude must be understood as a reaffirmation of these commitments to freedom of which we are so proud. We shall maintain these commitments unalterably in the hope the final vestiges of dependence in the world will disappear so that the world may take action that will. lead to a mature and dignified globality. 80. We wish to hail the courage of these peoples, which have achieved independence by fighting against and resisting the adverse past with the sole strength of their dignity and their profound desire for self-affirmation, a desire which finally found a response in the decision in.favour of independence, of the Government of Portugal, to which my delegation also wishes to pay a tribute. 81. .We feel sure that the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe; the .Republic of Cape Verde - and the People’s Republic of Mozambique will join the United Nations as peoples desiring to make a positive contribution to the bringing about of a better world of justice and peace with a plurality of economic and social and political systems, where,

The United States delegation welcomes the prospect that this year there will be three new African Members of the United Nations: the Republic of Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe and the People’s Republic of Mozambique. 89. The United States also supported the application of the Government of Sao Tome and Principe for membership in the United Nations. The islands of Sao Tome and Principe have a long historical tradition and a rich cultural heritage. My Government was pleased to have been represented at the independence ceremonies of Sao Tome and Principe on 12 July. The American delegation at the ceremonies was greatly impressed by the beauty of the islands and the warmth of their people. We are sympathetic to the aspirations of the Government of Sao Tome and Principe for progress. To assist in the islands’ economic development, -the United States has made available scholarships in this country to help develop skilled resources for the islands. 83. The United States is particularly pleased to support the membership application of the Republic of Cape Verde because of the very long ties of friendship between our two countries. In his letter of 5 July, the day of Cape Verde’s independence, President Ford stated to the President of the Republic of Cape Verde, Mr. Aristides Pereira, how much we as a nation look forward “to the opportunity for our two nations to work together in the cause of peace, freedom and the welfare of mankind”. 84. There is a long history of friendship and co-operation between the peoples of our two States, and indeed the close bond of kinship. These ties go back to the early days of our own national independence. The first American consulate in Cape Verde was established in 1816. Over these many decades a large number of Cape Verdeans have emigrated to the United States. Leaders of the Cape Verdean community in the United States estimate that between 200,000 and 300,000 American citizens are of Cape Verdean descent. They have added their language, their culture and their fine traits of energy and self-reliance to the American scene. 90. We look forward to co-operating closely with the representatives of the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe in pursuing the lofty goals of the United Nations, to which we are dedicated. 91. The United States has also voted in favour of the admission of the People’s Republic of Mozambique to the United Nations. Together with Guinea- Bissau, for whose membership we voted at the twenty-ninth session of the General Assembly4, Mozambique, the Republic of Cape Verde and the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, all of which this Council has just recommended be admitted, constitute an important addition of African States to the United Nations. Their admission is another step toward the development of a worldwide Organization. in which we hope all those nations that desire membership and are willing and able to carry out their obligations will be represented. 85. I am especially glad to welcome to the Security Council chamber this afternoon three distinguished Americans of Cape Verdean descent: Mr. Raymond Almeida, Mr. Anthony Ramos and Mr. Salah Matteos. They are present in the gallery. 86. I must at the same time express regret that the Council has acted so hastily in the case of Cape Verdean membership as not to make it possible for a representative of the new Government of the Republic of Cape Verde also to be present on this occasion, as I understand was requested.

My delegation was glad to vote today for the admission of three new Members to this Organization. Their application for membership as independent and sovereign States is a reminder of the immense changes that have taken place in Africa since 25 April of last year. 87. Perhaps not many around this table have ‘had the privilege, which was mine, of having visited personally the Cape Verde islands. I well remember from that visit the busy activity in the streets of Praia, the capital, the beautiful and active harbour of Mindelo and the verdant agricultural valleys of Sao Antao. The stalwart qualities of the people of this new republic are a vivid memory for me and a source of strength for the new State. 93. British Governments have often expressed their view that Portugal’s former territories in Africa should proceed to independence. I should like to take this opportunity to pay a tribute to the policy of decolonization which successive Portuguese Governments have pursued since April 1974. Members of the Council will be aware of the difficulties that still have to be resolved. It is, nevertheless, a pleasure to greet today the achievement of independence by the Republic of Cape Verde, the 88. The United States welcomes the Republic of Cape Verde to the United Nations, and we look forward to working with its representatives in our common 94. My Government is already in close contact with the Government of Mozambique, and we look forward to developing links with the Governments of Cape Verde and Sao Tome and Principe as well. We have already told the Mozambique authorities that we are very ready to engage in discussions on assistance to Mozambique at an appropriate time, when the new Government has taken stock of the country’s economic situation. 95. I should also like to take this opportunity to express my Government’s appreciation of the patient and constructive work of the President of Mozambique, in company with his colleagues in the United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia and Botswana, in bringing forward the prospect at last of change in Rhodesia. 96. In the light of our debate last week there is perhaps one point of organization which I should make at this meeting. We have voted here on the admission of independent and sovereign States, and on this understanding we have supported the three applications before us. My Government wishes to reiterate, however, with regard to the application from Cape Verde, that it would obviously be out of the question for one State to exercise the rights of another in this world body. Any such arrangement would create most undesirable precedents. At the same time, however, we are very conscious of the burden which membership of the United Nations imposes upon small States, and we naturally understand the wish of such States to seek the co-operation and assistance of those neighbours of theirs that are already members of this Organization.

The delegation of the Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic is very gratified to have voted in favour of the Security Council resolution which recommends the admission of the new sovereign States of the Republic of Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe and the People’s Republic of Mozambique to membership of the United Nations. The applications of these sovereign States for admission to membership of the United Nations are completely in accord with the requirements laid down by the United Nations Charter incumbent upon those seeking membership. These States have declared that they are prepared to assume the obligations contained in the United Nations Charter and have pledged to fulfil them. 99. As is shown by experience, positive changes in the international arena create more favourable conditions for the struggle of the democratic and progressive forces for social and national liberation. Therefore, it is quite logical that it is precisely in a condition of detente that the forces of the national liberation movements were able to score tangible successes in their struggle for independence and to consolidate national sovereignty and abolish the final bastions of colonialism and racism. The victorious culmination of the struggle of the patriotic forces for national liberation and independence is one of the concrete and material results of detente. The fall of the fascist rkgime in Portugal and the destruction of the last imperialist empire, which is the result of the heroic struggle waged by the peoples of the Portuguese colonies and the democratic forces inside Portugal, have created new possibilities for those forces which are struggling for freedom and progress of the peoples of Africa. The birth of these new free States is of great historical import not only for the peoples of those States but also for the entire African continent. 100. In the years of armed struggle against the colonizers, a friendship developed which has bound the Soviet people with the people of Mozambique. True to their international duty the countries of the Socialist community have unswervingly supported FRELIMO and hzve given it comprehensive and selfless assistance. The socialist countries are the natural allies of free Mozambique. This was stated by the President of FRELIMO and of the People’s Republic of Mozambique, Samora Machel. He stated: “From the very outset of our struggle the socialist countries were with us. We can say that the victory of Mozambique is the victory of genuine internationalism on the part of the socialist countries.” 101. Following Lenin’s behests, our country has unswervingly supported, and will continue to support, the liberation struggle of peoples. At the beginning of this century, Vladimir I. Lenin welcomed the awakening of those peoples that had been enslaved by colonialism. He foresaw that the time would come when those peoples would actively participate in deciding the fate of all mankind. We are living precisely in that time. 102. The growth of the influence of young independent States, the strengthening of their activity in international atfairs is one of the characteristic features of present international relations. This 103. In welcoming the admission to membership in the United Nations of these new States, the People’s Republic of Mozambique, the Republic of Cape Verde Islands and the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, it must be emphasized that the United Nations has made its own signal contribution to the cause of decolonization. The entire world is aware of the effective struggle which has been waged by the countries of the socialist community and other peace-loving States in the United Nations for the speedy and final elimination of colonialism and the complete liberation of the oppressed colonial peoples, which is strikingly borne out by the successful implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, which was adopted by the General Assembly on the initiative of the Soviet Union 15 years ago. The admission of the People’s Republic of Mozambique, the Republic of Cape Verde and the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe to membership of the United Nations will foster the achievement of genuine universality in the United Nations. 108. It is therefore most appropriate at this juncture to pay a special tribute to the militant fighters and leaders of FRELIMO, PAIGC and MLSTP (Movimento de Libertacao de $50 Tome e Principe) for the final successfully laid struggle in their respective countries. During the course of their struggle the United Nations played an important supportive role to the efforts of the liberation movements. The United Nations Special Committee on the Situation with regard to the Implementation of the Declaration on the granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and peoples had on a number of occasions reported on the progress of independence in those territories. Some of their leaders have appeared before this Council and other organs of the General Assembly to plead the case of the people. In response to those pleas the General Assembly adopted resolutions calling on Member States and the specialized agencies to render the necessary assistance to these countries. Thus the United Nations has every reason to be particularly satisfied with the impending membership of these three sovereign African States in the United Nations. 104. The delegation of the Byelorussian SSR would like to express its conviction that these young sovereign States will make their useful contribution to solving the tasks which are facing the United Nations, to strengthening international peace and security, to developing fruitful and mutually beneficial co-operation in order finally to remove colonialism, racism and apartheid.

Today will go down as one of those happy and memorable occasions in the history of the United Nations. The Security Council has just made an important recommendation to the General Assembly concerning the admission to membership in the United Nations of the Republic of Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe and the People’s Republic of Mozambique. We are looking forward to the day when the Governments of these three countries will assume their rightful place in the United Nations. 109. The United Republic of Tanzania welcomes these sister republics, and in doing so would like to pay special tribute to their militants and leaders, the militants of FRELIMO, PAIGC and MLSTP, whose valiant struggle made today’s Security Council recommendation possible. Members of this Council are fully aware of the gigantic efforts made by the people of these three countries to achieve their legitimate rights; we do not need to recite their untold sacrifices. While expressing our happiness and sense of jubilation at the victory of our brothers of these three countries, we must single out the particular significance for the struggle in southern Africa which the liberation of Mozambique, under the leadership of FRELIMO, implies. .As for its significance to the United Republic of Tanzania, I need hardly emphasize that the militant friendship and solidarity that bind the people of Mozambique and the people of the United Republic of Tanzania are a solidarity and friendship which are sealed in blood. 106. The history of the former Portuguese territories is well known to this Council; the Council’s recommendation today is a logical culmination of the victorious struggle of the people of those countries for freedom, independence and human dignity. It has not been an easy struggle: but one full of sacrifices, both human and material. 107. Both the General Assembly and the Security Council have followed with interest and sympathy the struggle of the people of Mozambique, of Cape 110. It is only fitting that on occasions like this we should pay homage to those gallant freedom 111. As we look forward to the membership in our Organization of the Republic of Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe and the People’s Republic of Mozambique, we must also bear in mind that the Governments of these countries have inherited, problems that are the result of the obnoxious system of colonialism-indeed, the colonialism which has survived for 500 years. Poverty, ignorance and disease must be eradicated. It is the responsibility of the United Nations to continue to render all the assistance that these countries require, with the minimum delay. 112. The three Governments, under the able leadership of their liberation movements, have all accepted the obligations contained in the Charter of the United Nations and have solemnly undertaken to fulfil them. The United Republic of Tanzania, for its modest part, has declared its preparedness to support Mozambique, Cape Verde and Sao Tome and Principe in their struggle for the national reconstruction of their respective countries. Africa too, through ,the Organization of African Unity, has expressed its readiness to support the new nations in their battle for economic reconstruction and for the consolidation of their hard won independence. I am sure that the United Nations will live up to its responsibilities and whole-heartedly support the people of Mozambique, of Cape Verde and of Sao Tome and Principe as they assume their new obligations.

Before calling on the next speaker, I should like to take this opportunity to speak in my capacity as representative of JAPAN on the subject under discussion. 114. It is indeed a source of great joy to me that I am privileged to preside over this meeting at a time when we are considering these felicitous items on the admission of three African States, each of which has acceded this year to full independence. The pleasure of my delegation became all the greater at the moment when I declared that the Security Council has unanimously resolved to recommend to the General Assembly that the three African 115. My delegation wholeheartedly supported the applications of the three States and voted in favour of the three resolutions which have just been adopted by the Security Council. The unanimity of the Council in recommending the membership of the three States in the United Nations is clear testimony that these three States are fully qualified for membership under Article 4 of the Charter. 116. In examining the applications before us my delegation took note with satisfaction of the declarations of the three applicant States that each of them accepts the obligations incumbent upon Member States under the Charter and that each solemnly undertakes to carry out these obligations. The delegation of Japan has confidence in their ability and willingness to do so. 117. On the occasion of the unanimous adoption of tlie three resolutions I wish to express, in the name of the delegation of Japan, our sincere congratulations to the Governments and peoples of the three countries for the confidence and assurance accorded by the Council. 118. In supporting these three applications, mv delegation has taken note with satisfaction that the agreements signed last year between the Government of Portugal and the leaders of the liberation movements of the three States have been fully implemented and that these former Portuguese Non-Self-Governing Territories have peacefully and in an orderly manner acceded to complete independence on the dates mutually agreed upon. 119. We join with the peoples of the three applicant States in rejoicing with them on their independence. Their full independence now enables them to occupy their rightful places among the family of nations and to assume the corresponding responsibilities in the international community. We are firmly confident that the new States will soon overcome the many difficulties that lie ahead of them in accomplishing the enormous tasks of building their nations and that they will actively participate in the collective efforts of the United Nations to build a world order in which equality, justice and human dignity will prevail among all peoples. 120. The Government of Japan recognized the People’s Republic of Mozambique on 25 June 1975, the Republic of Cape Verde on 11 July 1975, and the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe on 22 July 1975. In its congratulatory messages on their independence, the Government of Japan stated that the Government and people of Japan ardently desired to promote friendship and co-operation and 121. My delegation believes that the Council’s decision today will bring this Organization another significant step closer towards universality in membership and will further strengthen its functions in the fields of decolonization and international peace and security. 126. The admission of the Republic of Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe and the People’s Republic of Mozambique invites us to reflect once again on the course of the Portuguese decolonization process. In doing se we do not want to be judged as conspicuous and repetitive. We would like to call the attention of this Council to the firm and steady pace with which this decolonization process is being carried out. After the recognition “de jure” by Portugal of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau as an independent and sovereign State, the Portuguese Government, in a series of measures adopted, has respected its commitments to transfer powers in accordance with the established time schedules. Consequently Mozambique attained independence on 25 June, Cape Verde on 5 July and Sao Tome and Principe on 12 July 1975. Angola will attain independence on 11 November, and Timor, if its decolonization process is not hindered, will accede to full sovereignty in 1978. Thus, in a few months, Portugal has given to the world irrefutable proof of its intentions. 122. In accordance with the decision taken earlier at this meeting the representative of Portugal has been invited to participate in the discussion and he has expressed the wish to address the Council at this stage. I now, .in my capacity as President, invite the representative of Portugal to take a place at the Council table and to make a statement.

Mr. President, first of all, I should like to thank you and the other members of the Security Council for allowing me to participate in the work of this body concerning the applications of the Republic of Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe and the People’s Republic of Mozambique for admission to membership in the United Nations. Allow me also to say how pleased my delegation is to see this meeting presided over by the representative of Japan, a great country with which Portugal for many centuries has maintained the most friendly and fruitful relations. Allow me also to express our deepest appreciation for the kind words some’ of the speakers here have said about Portugal. 127. It is especially rewarding for my country to see this fact acknowledged by our Secretary- General in the introduction to his report on the work of the Organization. Allow me to quote the Secretary- General: 124. Portugal today sits before the highest organ of the United Nations for the second time since the revolution of 25 April 1974 and the subsequent initiation of the process of decolonization which has led, after approximately one year, to the independence of four African countries. As in August 1974, when the Security Council met to consider the application of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau for admission to membership in the United Nations, we sit here again in a spirit of co-operation and gratification at the unanimous decision taken by this Council in favour of the admission of the Republic of Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe and the People’s Republic of Mozambique. .We are, gratified for two reasons: first, because we -are deeply convinced that the membership -of, these. three nations will represent a valuable contribution to the universality that characterizes the United Nations itself and thus allows the Organization to pursue with increased strength its quest for freedom, justice, peace and international co-operation; and, second, because the admission of those three States constitutes a recognition that Portugal has kept its word. “In the past year there have been a number of welcome developments in the decolonization process in Africa. With the exception of Angola, all the former Portuguese colonial Territories on the continent have achieved independence by an orderly and peaceful transition of power in accordance with the agreements reached between the liberation movements concerned and the Government of Portugal.“s 128. The independence of those territories, achieved in an orderly and peaceful transition in keeping with the previously established time-table, was only possible through the true co-operation, friendship and mutual understanding existing between those States and Portugal. Their application for membership and expected admission during the thirtieth session of the General Assembly is regarded by my Government as the culmination of the process of their decolonization. 129. I should like, on behalf of my Government, warmly to salute the Governments and peoples of 130. Before I conclude, Sir, allow me to thank the Special Committee for the understanding and Litho in United Nations. New York 00300 82-6 1202-November 1983-2.200 The meeting rose at 5.15 p.m. NUWS 1 See resolution 372 (1975). z See resolution 373 (1975). 3 See resolution 374 (1975). 4 See Officiul Records of the General Assembly, Twenty-ninth Session. Plenary Meetings, 2248th meeting. lr See OfJicjal Records of the General Assembly, Thirtieth Session, Supplement No. IA. sect. XIII.