S/PV.2023 Security Council

I should like also to inform the members of the Council that I have received a letter from the Permanent Observer of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam which reads:

I have just leamcd that our collcaguc hnibnssador Simcin Alherto Consalvi has been appointcrl hlirlistcr for I:.stem:tl Relations of Venezuela. I wish to tilkC this opportunity, on 1lly own behalf and on hCllillf or all tllc mcnit~crs of the Council, to express to him our warm congratulations and to wish him further successes in his irllp~lrli~I~t nCW poSt. “The Security Council is discussing the application of the Socialist Republic of Vict Nam for membership in the United Nations, I should like to request you to allow me, like last year, to make a statement after the vote is taken.” Adoption of the agenda 5. I also wish to inform members of the Council that I have received a letter from’ the representatives of Benin, China,. France, India, the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, Mauritius, Pakistan, Panama, Romania, the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics and Venezuela, requesting that during the present debate in the Council an opportunity should be afforded to the representative of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to present his Government’s views on the question on our agenda [S/12365]. If there is no objection, I propose to invite the representative of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to make a statement at the Close of this discussion. Admission of new Members: Report of the Committee on the Admission of New Members concerning the application of the Socialist Republic of Viet Num for admission to membership in the United Nations (S/12367’) 2. The PRESII)IINT (trunslution Ji~n C’hincsc): I llave received letters dated 10 July 1077 from the representatives Of Allude, Rulgaria, (lllhil, Czechoslovakia, thC German Democratic Republic, (;uincn, Guyana. Ilungary, Indonesia, Japan, the i..ao ~+~plc’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Mongolia, the l’I\ilipl~incs, I’oland and Sri Lnnka in which fiCY request to be invited to p;WticipiltC in the discussion of the question on the ilgelldil. Thcreforc, in accordance with the provisions of /\rticlc 31 of the C’IlilrtCr and rule 37 of the provisional rules of l?roCedurc, as well ilS with the usual Practice of the c’ou~~ci], 1 propc)se to invite those represcn- It was so decided.

The Council has before it for consideration the report of the Conmllttee on the Admission of New Members concerning tllc application of the Socialist Republic of Vict Nam for membership in the United Nations [S/12367/.

First of all I wish to congratulate Ambassador Consalvi on having been appointed Minister for External Relations of Venezuela. The outstanding qualities he has shown as representative of his country at the United Nations will, I am sure, be put to full and striking use in the post to which he has just been appointed. 9. My country was one of the first to affirm that the United Nations should admit Viet Nam as one of its Members. Since 1975, when that country was not yet reunited, France pressed for consideration of the question on its own merits. Last autumn, when the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam presented its candidature, we spared no effort to have it accepted, and we regretted that it was not successful. Accordingly, we are all the more gratified that a further consideration of the Vietnamese application is taking place today under new conditions. Everything leads us to believe that this time the Council will be able to decide unanimously to recommend to the General Assembly the admission of a State which in adversity has proved its inflexible tenacity and its passion for independence. 10. It is fitting that Viet Nam should address itself to the United Nations so that its rightful place within our Organization may be finally recognized. That country has requested the application in its favour of Article 4 of the Charter, according to which all peace-loving States which accept the obligations contained in the Charter and are able and willing to carry out those obligations may become Members of the United Nations. The Socialist Republic of Viet Nam undoubtedly fulfils those conditions. Has it not often affirmed its will to carry out a policy of peace and co-operation not only with its neighbours but with the entire international community? Furthermore, has it not been for some years a member of the non-aligned movement, whose contribution to the work of the Organization is considerable? 11. In co-sponsoring the draft resolution before the Council, France is not only fulfilling a duty towards a State whose application is legitimate. Our action is not only in accordance with the ideal of universality of our Organization. We also wish to manifest our profound friendship for the people of Viet Nam, a friendship which has its roots in history but also, above all, in the esteem we have for. the ancient civilization, the energy and the qualities of that nation. 12. We may recall that the multiple links earlier forged between our two peoples in the course of history have withstood vicissitudes. The official visit of the Prime Minister of Viet Nam to Paris last April is a sign of that renewal. Now that peace has returned, our relations have resumed on a broad scale based on mutual esteem and the devotion of our peoples to ditente and to international co-operation with respect for the characteristics of all. “It is for each people to define in complete sovereignty the principles of its organization and the means of its development. We assess the importance of the State of Viet Nam and the role it is called upon to play for equilibrium and peace in South-East Asia. We consider that Viet Nam should be able to occupy as early as possible its rightful place at the United Nations.” 13. My delegation believes, furthermore, that all South- East Asia will benefit from the entry of Viet Nam into the United Nations. That great country is of necessity called upon to exercise a profound influence on the future of the region. We firmly hope that Viet Nam, together with all the countries concerned, will contribute to the restoration of the atmosphere of security and confidence indispensable to the progress of the surrounding nations and thereby to the safeguarding of peace in the world. For its part, my country is convinced that the people of Viet Nam will place at the service of peace the qualities it has demonstrated in adversity. 14. Indeed, Viet Nam now looks towards the future. It has already resolutely undertaken the immense and inescapable task of reconstruction. In this respect, our Organization can pfay an important role by making a valuable contribution. For its part, France is determined to assist Viet Nam in its development effort. We have already signed important co-operation agreements with it. As was emphasized by Prime Minister Barre, France is prepared, within its means, to develop with that country “fruitful and exemplary relations”. 15. In the presence of Ambassador Dinh Ba Thi, the Permanent Observer of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, whom I see here and who is a well known and esteemed personality at the United Nations, I conclude by saying that the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam fully deserves a place among us. It should therefore be by a unanimous decision-as indeed we hope will be the case-that the Council wil1 make this possible.

First of all, I should like to join other members in extending my delegation’s warm congratulations to the representative of Venezuela, Ambassador Consalvi, on his elevation to the post of Minister for External Relations of his country. My delegation and I personally cherish the excellent relations we have enjoyed with Ambassador Consalvi, and we offer him our good wishes for much success in his new important assignment. 17. Turning now to the agenda item before us, this is the fourth time that the Security Council is considering the application of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam for admission to the United Nations. We are doing so now, not only at the request of the General Assembly, but also because of yet another application for admission from Viet 18. The fact that Viet Nam meets all the conditions for admission of a new Member stipulated in Article 4 of the Charter has never been disputed. Moreover, according to an advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice given in 1948,l no other conditions than those in Article 4 may be imposed on States applying for membership. 19.. On the present occasion, there appears to be no negative reaction on the part of any member of the Council. At long last, it would seem that the sign of the veto is absent, and the moment seems auspicious for recommending to the General Assembly the admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam. 20. Having reached this final stage in the admission of Viet Nam, we cannot help recalling that no people under colonial rule have struggled so hard and for so long as the Vietnamese people for their national independence and territorial integrity. Historically, the Vietnamese liberation struggle was a part of the wider global movement against Western colonialism which began in Asia. To us in India, the Vietnamese struggle meant something more, because the Vietnamese people have old cultural ties with the Indian people. It was our expectation that, like other States under colonial rule, Viet Nam too would be admitted to the United Nations immediately following the withdrawal of the colonial Power. Unfortunately, that did not happen. The country became divided, and the struggle then entered its last, terrifying phase; even the United Nations seemed quite helpless. 21. All that is fortunately behind us now, but the memories of the past may linger a while until, eventually, time conquers those sad memories. Meanwhile, the physical wounds of the prolonged war, the damage and the destruction to the country’s economy and society still remain. International assistance for the reconstruction of Viet Nam has thus become a common international duty. We feel sure that Viet Nam’s admission to the United Nations will enable it to play its rightful role in world affairs and also make it possible for the United Nations to provide the much-needed assistance to Viet Nam for the rehabilitation of its displaced people and the rebuilding of its shattered economy. 22. My delegation, together with 10 others, has sponsored a draft resolution recommending that the General Assembly should admit the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to the United Nations. We would earnestly urge all members to vote in favour of it. In doing so we would be quietly closing one door and opening another, which, we trust, will lead the way to a happier and peaceful future for Viet Nam and its long-suffering people.

Before speaking on the question on the agenda, I wish, on behalf of the delegation 1 Admission of a State to the United Nations (Charter, Art. 4), Advisory Opinion: I. C, J. Reports 1948, p. 51. 24. AS has been pointed out, it is the fourth time now that the Security Council is discussing the question of the admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to membership in the United Nations. The admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam-this very important, much respected freedom-loving State in South-East Asia-is something which should have been achieved some time ago. The policies of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam are in Full accord with the requirements laid down by the Charter of the United Nations and the admission of that country to United Nations membership willlead to a great strengthening of the international community, will make it more universal, and will also help to promote the further strengthening of the authority and the viability of the United Nations, This is something which is fully grasped and fully understood by the overwhelming majority of Member States, as was shown by the result of the vote on the question of the admission of the Socialist Republic of Vict Nam to United Nations membership at the thirty-first session of the General Assembly. As members of the Council are aware, 124 States voted in favour of the immediate admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet N~~IJ and thus unreservedly came out in favour of speedily granting to that country its rightful place at the United Nations. In resolution 31/21, the General Assembly expressed the firm conviction that the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam should be admitted to membership in the United Nations. The General Assembly recommended that the Security Council should reconsider the matter favourably in strict conformity with Article 4 of the Charter. 2.5. We must note with some regret that the admission of a major independent Asian State, the Socialist Republic af Viet Nam, has been blocked by contrived obstacles that have nothing in common with either the requirements of the Charter regarding the admission of new States to membership in the Organization or with other valid requirements. The invalid requirements imposed on the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam were in djrect contradiction of the Charter and ran counter to the demands expressed by an absolute majority of Member States that Viet Nam should be granted its lawful place in the international community. 26. The desire of the independent and peace-loving State of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to become a Member of the United Nations is perfectly natural. The just liberation struggle of the heroic Vietnamese people won 27. The Vietnamese patriots have victoriously concluded many years of selfless struggle for their liberty and independence and the reunification of their country. In showing this stubborn valour and unswerving desire for victory, the Vietnamese people, constantly enjoying the warm sympathy and fraternal support of the socialist countries and progressive, democratic people throughout the world, was able to inflict a defeat on the imperialist aggressors and their puppets. It protected and consolidated the achievements of socialism in the north and carried out a national democratic revolution in the south, creating the unified Socialist Republic of Wet Nam. 28. Through its struggle and its victory, the Vietnamese people has made a tremendous contribution to the process of liberation throughout the world. The example of Viet Nam is very clear evidence of the fact that a people that struggles for its liberty, its independence and its inalienable right to take its future into its own hands and to determine the forms of its life, its present and its future, is invincible. The result of the long and arduous war in Viet Nam has shown the tremendous role of international solidarity among the socialist countries, the vitality and the ineluctable nature of the national liberation movement, whose joint actions have ensured the resolution of the vital tasks of world historic scope. The dauntless struggle of thevietnamese people, which spared no effort to achieve that victory, has provided a powerful stimulus for fresh successes for peace, for socialism and for the new rising up of the national liberation movement. 29. The Fourth Congress of the Communists of Viet Nam, which was held in December 1976, outlined grandiose plans for the development of that country, to give it a new life on the path of socialism. That historic congress consolidated the results of the glorious victory of the Vietnamese people in its struggle for liberty and independence and indicated the correct way to implement Marxist-Leninist ideals and the legacy of Ho Chi-Minh to the land of Viet Nam, ns well as opening the way to socialist construction in a unified Viet Nam. 30. At the present time, the entire Vietnamese people is bending every effort to remove the consequences of the war that was imposed on it, to carry out the comprehensive development of agriculture and industry, to improve the life of the workers and of all the people and to develop culture and science in its country. 31. In this connexion, we cannot fail to refer to the particular responsibility of those who unleashed the aggression in Viet Nam, and to their responsibility to undo the damage caused to that country. Any attempts on the part 32. The international authority of Viet Nam has grown immeasurably. The Socialist Republic of Viet Nam is making a tremendous and positive contribution to the strengthening of international peace, friendship and cooperation. As the General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, Mr. Brezhnev, said: “Viet Nam, with its tremendous experience of heroic struggle against imperialist aggression in order to achieve freedom and independence, and with its lofty revolutionary authority, has now become an important factor for peace and progress in South-East Asia and in Asia as a whole. ” 33. The Socialist Republic of Viet Nam has established and is developing relations with almost 100 States throughout the world, including 13 members of the Security Council. These relations between Viet Nam and other States are based on the principles of respect for independence, sovereignty, equality and mutual benefit. As its leaders have frequently stated, Viet Nam is prepared to co-operate with all States which desire such co-operation, on an equitable and mutually advantageous basis. 34. The Socialist Republic of Viet Nam occupies a prominent place in the non-aligned movement. It is a member of the Co-ordinating Bureau of the Non-Aligned Countries. In a communique issued in connexion with a meeting of the Ministers for Foreign Affairs of the member countries of the Co-ordinating Bureau, which was held at Delhi in April of this year, there was an appeal to the Security Council to consider immediately and constructively the application of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam for membership in the United Nations, in accordance with General Assembly resolution 31/21. In that communiquC, furthermore, it was emphasized that it was necessary that the United States of America should honour the obligations flowing from article 21 of the Paris Agreements on Viet Nam. 35. The Soviet Union decisively supports the legitimate request of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to be admitted to membership in the United Nations and considers that a speedy and favourable decision on this question will be fully in accord with the main purpose of the United Nations: to ensure genuine international peace and security. The time has long been ripe for justice to be done on this question. 36. The Soviet people is proud of the fact that, in the hard struggle in Viet Nam, giving assistance and support to the people of Viet Nam was of vital interest to the entire Soviet people. The Soviet people, which has itself experienced war and its consequences, is very much aware of the tremendous and cotiplex post-war tasks facing the Vietnamese --- 2 United Nations, Treaty Series, vol, 935, p. 2. 37. During his recent meeting in Moscow with the Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Viet Pam, Mr. Pham Van Dong, General Secretary Brezhnev said that the Soviet Union would continue to give support to the Vietnamese people, to help them accomplish the tasks involved in SOCiaht reconstruction. He emphasized that the Soviet people ilif&iY valued the contribution made by socialist Viet Nam to the struggle for peace, national independence, democracy and socialism. Mr. Pham Van Dong, in turn, stated that the eminent successes of the Soviet people, which was about to celebrate the sixtieth anniversary of the great October Revolution, were a matter of joy to all Vietnamese workers, and that the adoption of the new Constitution of the Soviet Union was an inspiring stimulus to all peoples fighting for peace, democracy, national independence and socialism. 38. The delegation of the Soviet Union voices the hope that the Security Council, following its consideration of the application of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, will adopt a positive recommendation. Such a decision would be in accordance with the purposes and principles of the United Nations, and in accordance with the need to strengthen international peace and security and to improve ddtente in international relations. The admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam would also help further to instil the principle of universality in the Organization. 39. The delegation of the Soviet Union welcomes the rcpresentativcs of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam who arc present in this chamber and expresses its conviction that the relations of friendship and co-operation between our peoples and between our delegations will continue to develop and grow. 40. The Soviet delegation fully supports the draft resolution now before the Council, which was introduced bY the representative of India and of which the Soviet Union, together with other States, is a sponsor. We would stress that it would be even better if all 15 members of the Council were sponsors of the draft resolution.

Once again the Security Council has before it a subject whose deep political, historic and moral significance is obvious. The question of the admission of Viet Nam to the United Nations has always represented far more than one of the routine cases discussed by the Organization. It is an event with the force of a symbol; that was, indeed, true of the entire glorious, epic struggle of the Vietnamese people. The far-too-prolonged absence of Viet Nam from our Organization llad become a real crisis of conscience. Beyond the question of the principle of universality, keeping the people of Viet Nam outside the United Nations placed in question the very foundations of the Charter. 42. In participating in this debate, which this time is being held under favourable auspices, we have no intention of “We sincerely believe it wise t0 loOk courageously and honestly to the future, and the future can be based only on new principles of international relations aimed at a more just world based on equality and justice for all, great and small alike.” 43. We are particularly pleased that now-as is evident from the report of the Committee on the Admission of New Members-there is no longer any obstacle to the admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to the United Nations. 4. The %XWity COWId’s favourable reconsideration of the apphtiofl for admission to the United Nations bY the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam is, above all, an act of justice-so long awaited-towards a State that fully meets all the conditions for admission and that, in all its foreign policy actions, is guided by the purposes and principles of the Charter. Such an act is in conformity with the aspirations of the Vietnamese people, which, throughout its history, has struggled heroically to achieve its independence and national unity; it is proof of the determination of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to participate, along with the other Member States, in the activities of the Organization. Such an act is also part of the legitimate requirements of the international community, as laid down, inter alia, in General Assembly resolution 3 l/2 1 of 26 November 1976. 45. Faithful to its policy of militant solidarity with the Vietnamese people, Romania has from the very outset given constant support to the just cause of Viet Nam and that people’s legitimate right to occupy the place it deserves in the Organization. The favourable recommendation of the Security Council regarding the application of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam will consequently give real satisfaction to the delegation of Romania. We are convinced that the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, which carries out a policy of peace and co-operation among nations, will make an important contribution within the framework of the international community towards the strengthening of peace in South-East Asia and the maintenance of international peace and security in general. 46. me Socialist Republic of Romania has always been at the side of the peoples struggling for their national freedom and independence. In that spirit, Romania from the very outset expressed solidarity with the people of Viet Nam in its heroic struggle and gave that people moral, material, political and diplomatic support. This was recently emP!asized by President Nicolae Ceaugescu in the following terms: “The Romanian people, aware from its own experience of the sacrifices required bY the struggle for freedom and independence, fully understood the aspirations of the people of Viet Nam to become liberated and to reunite its country and gave that people aI1 suPPort during the difficult Years of the struggle against foreign intervention.” 48. The people of Viet Nam is at present engaged in the vast and complex task of reconstructing its country. It seems natural to us that in these efforts the Vietnamese people should be able to rely on the support of the international community and to benefit from the aid necessary to overcome the consequences of war. III this respect, we support the legitimate request of the Government of the Socialist Republic of Vict Nam for restitution for the damage caused by war and for assistance in the economic reconstruction of the country. 49. In conclusion, and anticipating a favourable result of this Council debate, I should like to assure Ambassador Dinh Ba Thi and all our Vietnamese friends of the complete co-operation of the Romanian delegation in our common efforts within the United Nations. 50. Romania, which has at all times supported the people of Viet Nam, has once again become a co-sponsor of a draft resolution recommending the admission to the United Nations of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam. The present draft resolution is simple and clear. Our colleague Ambassador Jaipal of India has just introduced the draft on behalf of the 11 members who have sponsored it, and we are convinced it will meet with general agreement. 51. We have learned with great satisfaction that Ambassador Sim6n Albert0 Cons&i has been appointed Minister for External Relations of his country. While we sincerely rejoice at this important appointment, we regret the imminent departure of an esteemed and effective colleague and close friend. We have admired the lofty political and diplomatic qualities he has demonstrated here, particularly as President of the Security Council during the month of April, when he guided the Council’s work effectively, discreetly and courteously, winning our complete admiration and appreciation. I wish to congratulate him most warmly and to express our best wishes for success in his new function. I express the hope that we shall see him here with us again very often.

Mr. President, I join you and other colleagues in extending our warm felicitations to Ambassador Consalvi of Venezuela on his appointment to the high office of Minister for External Relations of his country. As members of the Security Council, we have witnessed at first hand his deep and humane understanding of international issues, his outstanding diplomatic skill in dealing with complex matters and his patience and good humour. These are the qualities which we are sure will help him and his country play an even greater role in world 53. The Security Council once again has under consideration the application of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam for admission to membership in the United Nations in pursuance of General Assembly resolution 31/21 and the request of the Permanent Observer of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to the United Nations. The Council also has before it the report of the Committee on the Admission of New Members, reflecting the unanimous view of the members of the Council that the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam should be admitted to membership in the United Nations. 54. At the Council’s 1970th meeting, on 12 November 1976, my delegation had occasion to express our warm support for the admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to the United Nations. We reiterate that, in our view, the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam is fully qualified for membership of the United Nations in accordance with the provisions of the Charter. We are glad that the Council is now able unanimously to recommend to the General Assembly that the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam should be admitted to membership in the Organization and that the draft resolution sponsored by 11 delegations, including my own, will receive full support in the Council. 55. The people of Viet Nam won their independence after a long and arduous struggle involving immense sacrifices and have already taken their rightful place among the third-world countries. The people and the Government of Pakistan hold the people of Viet Nam in great respect and wish them peace, progress and prosperity. As a member of the third world, the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam is certain to uphold and further its just causes and to foster unity among its peoples and Govern.nellts. 56. We are certain that the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, as a Member of the United Nations, will make a valuable contribution to the realization of the purposes of the Charter and to the implementation of its principles. Moreover, Viet Nam’s admission to the United Nations will assist it in the considerable task of nation-building and reconstruction. It thus remains our firm belief that the admission of Viet Nam to the Organization will contribute to the strengthening of peace and stability in South-East Asia, a region that has undergone tremendous suffering in the recent past. Further, in our view it will also promote international peace and security in general. 57. We look forward to welcoming the delegation of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam in our midst during the next session of the General Assembly and to close co-operation in all areas at the United Nations and in other intemational forums between the delegations of our two friendly countries. 58. Mr. McHENRY (United States of America): First of all, I should like to offer the congratulations of the United States to Ambassador Con&vi on his appointment as Minister for External Relations. My Government looks 59. When the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam is admitted to nlembership in the United Nations this fall, one more nation will join the ranks of the Organization. The principle of universality of representation will be further advanced. At that lime, Viet Nam will accept the Purposes and principles of the United Nations and the obligations of the Charter. As a Menlber of the United Nations, Viet Nam will join us in our collective responsibility to maintain intcrnational peace and security, to develop friendly relations among nations, to settle disputes peacefully and to advance hunmn rights. (10. MY Government believes now, as it did when it helped draft the Charter, that lasting peace lies in the dedication of all nations to these high principles through universal lll~mhmhip in the United Nations. We look forward to working with Viet Nam, as with all other members of the (‘uuncil, to bring about a new era of peace, co-operation and friendship, not only in our bilateral relations but in our work together at the United Nations. 01 * Mr. 1lOSSEN (Mauritius): I should like first of all to CX~CIIC~ my delegation’s warmest felicitations to the repre- XII tative of Vencznela, Ambassador Consalvi, upon his al~l~ointn~ent to the high office of Minister for External Relations of his country. The Mauritian delegation wishes him much success in his new assignment. 62. Mr. Prcsidcnt, less than a fortnight ago the Security Council met under your able and efficient leadership to consider the application of the Republic of Djibouti for adniission to nlernbership in the United Nations. The result was :I resounding unanimous vote in favour of the admission of this newly independent country. Today the Council is niecting mew to examine for the fourth time the application for admission to this concert of nations of yet another third-world country, the Socialist Republic of Viet Nanl, a country which won its independence from the clutches of ilnperialist forces against heavy odds and through sheer indomitable determination. The Mauritian delegation feels that this country has been denied once too often the right to membership in the Organization for rc:Isons that have swept international opinion off its feet. The resulting frustration has perhaps left a scar even uglier than tl~osc suffered by the brave and heroic people of Viet N:II~ during tile protracted war of liberation. 03. ~11c Mauritian delegation has all along believed in and recognizcd the legitimate aspirations of the people of the Socialist ~cpublic of Viet Nam. Their unfaltering faith in this community of nations, their ardent desire to co-operate with one and &III and their love for peace and stablity arc qualities that are well known to Members of the United Nations. lt is our understanding that the long and arduous path of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to secure international recognition has now come to an end and that tllis great country will no longer be denied the right of assunling its rightful place at the United Nations. We are further ]qpy to note that one State member of the Security Council has finally seen the light. 65. MY delegation strongly feels that, in the interest of the universalitY of the Organization and, further, in the interest of international peace and security, and alsO because the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam fulfds all the conditions for membership, it should no longer be denied admission to full membership of the Organization. The Security Council, by recommending this application for admission, would further consolidate the trust which the world community has placed in the United Nations. 66. My delegation is honoured to be a co-sponsor of the draft resolution recommending the admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to membership in the United Nations. I should like to add here that we fully support the application, members to do so. and we strongly urge other

I know that Ambassador Sim6n Albert0 Consalvi, a man of intrinsic virtues, abhors praise however sincere. Nevertheless, I wish, on behalf of the delegation of Panama, to say that the excellent qualities which characterize him fully justify the distinction conferred upon him by the illustrious President of his country, Mr, Carlos And& PCrez. Panama sees in Ambassador Con&vi a sincere and determined friend and we could not fail at this time to express our happiness at his appointment to the lofty post of Minister for External Relations of the country of Bolivar. We wish him every success for the good of Venezuela and of the Hispanic American community. 68. The delegation of Panama is a sponsor of the draft resolution contained in document S/12366. Our action is consistent with the position which we have taken on this matter from the very beginning. WC are certain that we are thereby helping to make up for an injustice committed against the heroic people of Viet Nam. 69. As we stated at the meeting of the Comrnitb? On the Admission of New Members, Panama, like the vast nMjoritY of the Members of the Organization, considers that the Vietnamese people meets ail the requirements to take its place in the United Nations with all the ensuing ridlts. duties and obligations. Its participation will undoubtcdiy be of benefit to the strengthening of international Peace and security. The Socialist Republic of Viet Nam fills all the conditions laid down in the Charter for llatiOnS which aspire to membership of this world body. Therefore, nothing could be Illore just than to include Viet Nani without delay in the full process of international co-opcration. 70. We observe with genuine satisfaction that the United States of America, which, in November 1976, opposed the admission of Viet Nam, has now changed its position and that, as stated by its representative yesterday in the Committee on tile Admission of New Members, it has no 71. My delegation congratulates the United States for this new approach which is truly positive. We wish to see in this context a very encouraging sign; it seems to us that, under the leadership of President Carter, the Government of this great nation is taking the path of rectification, and, since my country, Panama, is precisely one of the countries which has most to hope for from this new policy and from the philosophy of the new frontier, this decision regarding Viet Nam generates in us warranted optimism. We believeand I hope that we are not mistaken-that the hour of justice for which the Panamanian people have been waiting for more than 70 long years is drawing near. 72, Lastly, my delegation wishes to congratulate, with brotherly affection, the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam on the triumph of its cause. We at once offer it our most sincere, loyal and selfless co-operation. 73. We thank you, Mr. President, the representative of the great nation of China, for having guided these debates with so much skill and wisdom.

First of all, I wish to take this opportunity to convey my sincerest good wishes to Ambassador Consalvi on his assumption of the important duties in his new post. I think it is heartening that once again one of our colleagues will have an opportunity to continue to follow the work of the United Nations at a very much higher level. After the words of praise which you yourself, Mr. President, as well as preceding speakers have uttered, I can add nothing more without being repetitious. However, I should like to join my colleagues in thanking Ambassador Cons&i for the cordial and close co-operation he has offered and to wish him every success in his new responsibilities. 75. A few days ago the Security Council decided to recommend to the General Assembly the admission of the Republic of Djibouti. Today we have met to do the same in the case of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam. Thus, for the second time this month, under your effective leadership, Mr. President, the members of the Council have come together to deal with a matter on which a decision will serve as the positive outcome of political developments. I should like to congratulate you on this and to state that the Federal Republic of Germany will support this new recommendation of the Council. We are sure the General Assembly will ratify the Council’s decision and that the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam wil.I thus be able to participate in the work of the thirty-second session as a full Member. 76. The Federal Republic of Germany, on 23 September 1975, established diplomatic relations with the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and, in 1976, the ambassadors took UP their posts. We should be extremely satisfied to see Viet Nam take its place at the United Nations. After long years marked by violence and tragic events, the Socialist Republic 77. When it becomes a Member of the Organization, Viet Nam, whose representative hitherto has been an accredited observer, will have ampler and more direct opportunities to participate in the deliberations and the work of the international community. In stating its adherence to the principles and the obligations contained in the Charter, Viet Nam is helping to broaden the application and strengthen the universal validity of the Charter. It is our hope that this will contribute to a more effective application of these principles and that the peoples of the United Nations will thus enjoy a more peaceful, freer and more prosperous future than many of them have in the past. It is in this spirit that we hail the imminent entry of Viet Nam into the United Nations. 78. We were very much interested to read the last report, which was transmitted under the cover of a letter from the Secretary-General dated 8 July, from the Co-ordinator for Rehabilitation Assistance to Viet Nam. This is the blueprint for a long and arduous process of reconstruction but it is a beginning which can serve as a basis for the necessary efforts which will have to be made hereafter. In this connexion, we have just communicated to the Secretary- General a report on the contributions being made by a number of humanitarian organizations in the Federal Republic of Germany to render assistance to Viet Nam. These contributions bear witness to the interest my country has in providing aid to Viet Nam. 79. The admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam will be the result of a judicious and realistic policy on the part of those concerned in the most recent past. We hope that this will also augur well for the future participation of a new Member State in the activities of the United Nations. 1 should like to add to this my personal hope that the cordial and confident relations which have characterized the co-operation between our two Missions will be strengthened.

I now invite the representative of Japan to take a place at the Council table and to make a statement.

Mr. President, let me first express the gratitude of the Japanese delegation to you and the other members of the Security Council for giving us an opportunity to speak before the Council on this very important occasion when the admission to the United Nations of one of our closest neighbours, the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, has come up for decision. 82. The Japanese delegation wishes to take this occasion to congratulate you, Mr. President, on your assumption of the presidency of the Council for the month of July. There 83. I wish also to take this opportunity to congratulate the representative of Venezuela, Ambassador Consalvi, on his appointment to the elevated post of Minister for External Relations of his country. 91. I should also like, on behalf of my delegation, to congratulate Ambassador Consalvi on his appointment as Minister for External Relations of Venezuela and to say how much my country looks forward to working with him at aI1 levels, particularly in the maintenance of the existjng friendly relations between our two nieghbouring countries. J wish him every success in his new office. 84, The Japanese delegation strongly supports the admjssion of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to membership in the United Nations. We believe that the admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam is most appropriate in view of the important place that that country occupies in Asia. I may recall that, during Japan’s membership of the Security Council, the Japanese delegation voted, both in 1975 and 1976, for the draft resolutions recommending to the General Assembly the admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, and 1 wish to renew our support for the admission of Viet Natn. 92. My delegation fully supports the recommendation for admission to membership in the United Nations of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam as contained in the report of the Committee on the Admission of New Members. We have always been convinced-and we have affirmed this conviction during previous consideration of this matterthat the application of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam fully conforms to the requirements of Article 4 of the Charter. Indeed, last year the General Assembly, in its rcsolutidn 3 l/21, recommended that the Security Council consider favourably the application of Vjet Nam for membership. Whiie we cannot be oblivious to the obstacles which impeded the admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to membership in this international body, it is not the intention of my delegation at this time to delve into the past-history will record those events-but I will certainly pay tribute to the long and resolute struggle of the heroic people of the Socialjst Republic of Viet Nam to achieve their rightful place in the international community. 85. The Government of Japan is confident that the admission of the Socialist Republic of Vjet Nam will further advance the principle of universality, which constitutes one of the goals of our Organjzatjon, and wjll prove to bc a very positive clement in the maintenance of peace and security and the promotion of international co-operation. My Government feels that the admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam will symbolise the peace and stability that are taking root in Asia. 86. My delegation is very happy to say that, since Japan’s establishment of diplomatic relat,ions with the Democratic Republic of Viet Nun on 21 September 1973, two agreements for economic co-operation on a grant basis have been concluded between the two countries to promote the post-war reconstruction of Viet Nam. 93. The Socialist Republic of Viet Nam has played a constructive role in the non-aligned movement and has shared in that movement’s general concern for and promotion of international peace and justice. We are therefore confident that the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam will mLake a positive contribution to the attainment of the goals and objectives of this international Organization. . 87. It is the strong desire of the Government of Japan that the close relationship existing between our two countries will be further strengthened, not only in the field of economic co-operation but also in the political, cultural and all other fields. My delegation is looking forward to co-operation in the United Nations with the delegation of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam. 94. This recommendation for admission brings us ncarel to the goal of the universality of the Organization, a goal to which my Government is ardently committed. Meanwhile, it is even more imperative for us to maintain resolutely the struggle for the complete elimination of the surviving forms of colonjrtlism, imperialism and racism.

1 thank the representative of Japan for his congratulations to me and for his kind wishes with regard to the development of friendly relations between Japan and China. 95. We look forward to welcoming the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam as a Member of this intcmational Organization, and WC offer our full co-operation to its delegation in our earnest desire to strengthen international peace and security. 89. The next speaker is the representative of Guyana, whom I invite to take a place at the Council table and to make llis statement.

Mr. President, I should first of all like to express my gratitude to you and, through you, to all the members of the Council for allowing my delegation to participate in the discussion of the question

I thank the representative of Guyana for his congratulations to me.

Mr. President, permit me, on behalf of my delegation, to extend congratulations to you on your assumption of this high office and to thank you for giving me the opportunity to take the floor before this significant gathering and to speak again on the admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to membership in the United Nations. 99. Our best wishes go to Ambassador Consalvi on his new appointment as Minister for External Relations of Venezuela. 100. Linked in solidarity with the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, we regard it as our duty to raise our voice to espouse the just cause of Viet Nam. My delegation has repeatedly had the opportunity to express the full support of the German Democratic Republic for the admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to membership in the United Nations. We welcome with deep satisfaction the resumed discussion on the legitimate claim for admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam. We highly appreciate and fully support the draft resolution which has been submitted by the representative of Kndia and sponsored by other members of the Council. 101. The time is long overdue to give the people and Government of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam full rights in our world. Organization. As has been emphasized many times in the past, there is no doubt that the admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to United Nations membership will help to consolidate peace and strengthen international security. At the same time, it further increases the authority of our Organization and complies with the principle of universality, one of the pillars of its activities. 102. The application made last year by the Government of the sovereign and independent Socialist Republic of Viet Nam is fully in accord with the provisions of the Charter of the United Nations. The Socialist Republic of Viet Nam is willing and able to carry out the obligations incumbent upon all Members of the Organization. 103. The Socialist Republic of Viet Nam consistently pursues a policy of peace and friendship with other States based on respect for national sovereignty, independence, equality, non-interference, mutual advantage and peaceful coexistence. In the relatively short period of its existence as a reunited, undivided country, it has gained a respected position in the world. The Socialist Republic of Viet Nam stands firmly by the side of the peoples of Asia, Africa and Latin America in the struggle against imperialism, colonialism, neo-colonialism and racial discrimination and on behalf of national independence, democracy and social progress. It makes a constructive contribution in the group of non-aligned States and co-operates actively in the United 104. Links of deep friendship connect us with the Vietnamese people. The fraternal alliance between our States and peoples has its firm basis in a joint ideology and in common goals and objectives. It is deeply rooted in tradition and was reaffirmed by our comprehensive help and support for the Vietnamese people in the course of their fight against the aggressors and during the years of reconstruction. Solidarity with the Vietnamese people is State policy and a cause near to the hearts of all the citizens of the German Democratic Republic. The General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Socialist Unity Party of Germany, Mr. Erich Honecker, declared at the ninth Congress of the Party: “Solidarity with the heroic Vietnamese people has at all times been a cause very near to our hearts. The victory they won after a struggle involving heavy sacrifices aroused great joy among our people. We shall continue to give wholehearted support to the Vietnamese people in healing the wounds of war and building a socialist society.” Only a few days ago, on the occasion of a visit by a Government delegation of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to our country, measures were agreed on for the further development of economic co-operation between the German Democratic Republic and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam. 105. During the cruel war that was forced upon it from outside, untold misery was inflicted upon the people of Viet Nam. For this reason alone, it is destined to be represented as an equal member at the United Nations, which has made the struggle to strengthen and to secure durable peace its main objective. Those who bear the responsibility for the victims and for the suffering and destruction in Viet Nam have, besides their responsibility to support its application for membership in the United Nations, the moral obligation above all to help as soon as possible to heal the wounds that were inflicted upon the Vietnamese people. That obligation exists the more so since the Paris Agreements provide the basis for it under international law. We also hold the view that such an obligation should concern especially those who so often like to speak of humanity and human rights. 106. My delegation expects that the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam will, in the near future, take its legitimate place at long last as a full Member of the United Nations and that justice will again triumph in spite of all obstacles. The German Democratic Republic is fully confident that the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam as a Member of the United Nations will make a valuable contribution to fulfilling the objectives of the world Organization.

The next speaker is the representative of Hungary. I invite him sdvi On his appointnlent as Minister for External Relations of his country. We should like to join others in wishing him Well, good health and success in his important duties h the fllture. 109. Mr. President, I should like to express to you, and through you to the other members of the Council, my delegation’s deep appreciation of the fact that we have been @verl the opportunity to Participate in the discussion as the Security Council is considering the question of the application Of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam for admission to membership in the United Nations. I also wish to convey to YOU OUT congratulations on your assumption of the presidency of the Cou~~cil for this month. 110. I should like to welcome whole-heartedly the delegation of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, which is present here, headed by its well-known and very distinguished and respected ambassador, Mr. Dinh Ba Thi. 11 1. Since August 1975, my delegation has had the privilege of participating in every discussion on the question of the admission of Viet Nam to the United Nations. Mention of the month of August 197.5 is in itself ample proof that it is now more than high time that the Organization Put an end to the unfortunate delay over this issue. It is our firm view that the reasons why the I Iungarian delegation has consistently requested to be allowed to speak on this item are as valid as ever. Nevertheless, I should like to elaborate on them, although briefly. 11’. The question of the admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam has always been characterized as being of the utmost significance and of particular importance to the people and Government of the Hungarian People’s Republic. We have never hidden, nor do we now hide, the fact that the Hungarian people and Government fully supported Viet Nam during its national liberation struggle, and we shall continue to do so in the days ahead, in tirncs of Peace, with all the means at our disposal. The peoples of Hungary and Viet Nun are closely bound by ties of fraternal and comradely friendship and solidarity, as a result of a historical co-operation of which we are proud. Our sincere and warmest solidarity, based upon the high principle of true internationalism as regards the socialist State of Viet ~~~~1, has also been reflected in the firm and dclermined support for the admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to our Organization. 113. There can be no question in anyone’s mind regarding the willingness of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to accept and carry out the obligations laid down in the Charter of the United Nations, and no one has ever questioned the commitment to this end expressed by the Vietnamese Government. Moreover, this nation Of 40 million people has already contributed effectively to the maintenance of international peace and security, as well as 114. We are still wondering if there is, or ever has been, any other State more qualified for membership irl the United Nations than the Socialist Republic of Viet warn. The heroic struggle of the Vietnamese people for in&pendence against foreign intervention, and consequently foreign domination, has been a shining example to t]lose Peoples fighting for self-determination and independence. me reification Of Vi& Nam has been celebrated and saluted throughout the world. The Position of Viet Nam on the international scene iS growing stronger and stronger. Viet Nam’s constructive contribution to international Peace and security is widely and rightly recognized and praised. The consistent Policy of peace followed by the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam has ho contributed to the peace and security of Asia and of the world in genera]. 115. There is, however, a failure to be corrected by the community of nations: the delay-dictated by unjustified, selfish and narrow-minded interests-in admitting the Socialist State of Viet Nam to the United Nations. We have been witness to-and it is without joy that we recall this-the unfortunate experiences of the past two years with respect to the meetings of the Security Council and the outcome of those meetings, when a permanent member of the Council three times vetoed the application of Viet Nam. Dozens and dozens of Member States demanded and urged that Viet Nam should be given its legitimate right to be recognized; wider support for that could hardly have been expressed. 116. History once again taught us a lesson, and indications are that by now all of us have learned it. In the course of the debates in the past two years, delegations have declared almost unanimously that the realities of history, progress and justice would prevail, and it appears to US that the opinions are now going to prove justified. 117. The Socialist Republic of Viet Narn is facing tremendous difficulties arising from the results of the devastating war launched by imperialism. In admitting Viet Nam to the United Nations, we cannot in any way heal the deeply rooted wounds of the war, but we definitely can raise our voice strongly in this forum to state that those responsible for the destruction of the national economY and infmstructure of Viet Nam are obliged to carry out their responsibilities by contributing to the reconstructions of Viet Nam, as stipulated and agreed upon in an international agreement. 118. It can, ]lowever, be observed with satisfaction that a significant number of States have expressed their readiness and taken appropriate action to contribute to the reconstruction of this war-torn country; this has been done alSo by the United Nations, through the specialized agencies. 1 lg. ln the li~lt of the foregoing, it becomes ever more urgent that favourable consideration should be gLven to fulfilling the mandatory obligations of States, with due regard for the often-advocated ideas of moral va1ues, 120. In concluding my statement, 1 wish to reiterate the position of the Government of the Hungarian People’s Republic, which fully and vigorously supports the admission of Viet Nam to the United Nations, all the more since we believe that it is almost too late for the Members of the Organization to take such action as to do justice to the people of Viet Nam, who have suffered so much, by admitting the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to the United Nations. That action should have been taken two years ago. 121. Once again I wish to assure our Vietnamese friends present here that, as in the past, we are determined and shall continue to be determined to lend our full support to them. We are convinced, at the same time, that the Security Council, being aware of its responsibilities, will act in accordance with the expectations of the nations of the world.

The next speaker is the representative of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. I invite him to take a place at the Council table and to make his statement.

I should like first, on behalf of the delegation of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, to extend to you, Sir, our warmest congratulations on your accession to the presidency of the Security Council for the month of July. I should like to take this opportunity to say to you that the People’s Republic of China and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic are linked by ties of militant solidarity and co-operation based on Marxism-Leninism and international proletarianism. We are very happy to see you guiding the work of the Council at a time when this body is reconsidering the exceptionally important problem of the admission of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to the United Nations. 124. We wish also to thank you and, through you, all the members of the Council for having been good enough to authorize us to take part in the discussion of the question now before the Council. 125. We would take this opportunity also to extend sincere congratulations to Ambassador Barton of Canada, who presided over the Council with such competence during the month of June. 126. As we so vividly remember, last year, because of the obstruction of the representative of the outgoing Republican Administration of the United States, the Security Council was unable to give positive consideration to Viet Nam’s application for admission to the United Nations. Today, the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, supported by the overwhelming majority of Member States, renews its application for admission. 127. In applying for admission to this international Organization, the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam is merely 128. The question now before the Council is of the utmost importance to my delegation, because my country, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, has close bonds of solidarity with the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam. We have privileged links based on a spirit of comradeship and brotherhood, These bonds of active solidarity and co-operation are consolidated and strengthened more and more from day to day. We have given and shall continue to give our brotherly support to the endeavours now being undertaken at the diplomatic level by the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam for admission to the United Nations. We support and resolutely continue to support the brotherly people of Viet Nam in their efforts to obtain from the Government of the United States a contribution for the healing of war wounds and the postwar reconstruction of Viet Nam. 129. I avail myself of this opportunity to reaffirm before the representatives of the United States Government present here that my country, which still maintains diplomatic relations with the United States, is prepared to improve normal relations between our two countries on the basis of respect for the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Laos. The United States must put an end to its hostile policy and its hostile acts against the people of Laos and must honour commitments by contributing to the healing of the war wounds in Laos. 130. In conclusion, my delegation wishes to appeal to members of the Security Council to re-examine favourably the application of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and to recommend unanimously to the General Assembly its admission to the United Nations. To act otherwise would be to disregard the will of the overwhelming majority of the peoples and countries which constitute the international Organization, thereby jeopardizing the principle of universality which is essential to its effectiveness. 13 1. The PRESIDENT (translation from Chinese): I thank the representative of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic for the congratulations he addressed to nie. The Chinese Government and people share the sentiments expressed by him and will strive to develop the ties of militant solidarity and co-operation and the feelings of friendship which exist between our two countries. Tlze meeting rose at 12.55 p.m. HOW TO OBTAIN UNITED NATIONS PUBLICATIONS United Nations publications may be obtained from bookstores and distributors throughout the world. Consult your bookstore or write to: United Nations, Sales Section. New York or Geneva. COMMENT SE PROCURER LES PUBLICATIONS DES NATIONS UNIES Les publications des Nations Unies sont on vente dans les librairies et les agences depositaires du monde entier. Infornez-vous aupres de votre libraire ou adressez-vous g : Nations Unies. Section des ventes, New York ou Gen&ve. COMO CONSEGUIR PUBLICACIONES DE LAS NACIONES UNIDAS Las publicaciones de las Naciones tlnidas e&n en venta en librerias y casas distribuidoras en todas partes de1 mundo. Consulte a su librero o dirijase a: Naciones Unidas. Secci6n de Ventas, Nueva York o Ginebra. Litho in United Nations, New York Price: %U.S. 1.00 (or equivalent in other currencies) 77-70001-April 1978-2,200