UN General Assembly
1963

7. It is common ground that, since the establishment of the United Nations, this is the first General Assembly that meets in a climate of relaxation and of promise. But, more significantly, what has emerged during the progress of this debate is the positive approach to problems in a spirit of understanding freed from cold war antagonisms. This session may well mark the beginning of a new period in human history —the period of mental adaptation to the unprecedented conditions of a nuclear age. 8. This new international climate started with the overcoming of the Cuban crisis. That crisis suddenly gave to the world a sobering glimpse of the imminent danger of nuclear destruction. It brought a healthy reaction. The statesmanship of the leaders of the Powers concerned —their positive response to the mediation of the Secretary-General, and their consequent co-operation, with his assistance— finally solved the crisis. This experience introduced an element of greater trust —or perhaps less mistrust— in common efforts for peace.