UN General Assembly
1955

7. Now that the tension in international affairs is on the wane, we can more clearly discern controversies that beset relations between peoples and nations alike. I refer to the so-called colonial question. Almost all the American nations achieved their independence through insurrection, and to this day they derive pride and strength from their valiant struggles and feats of arms. It is only natural, therefore, that their sympathies flow to those who are demanding independence. This sentiment, however, springs from the heart and should not overcast the mind. May I recall, gentlemen, the words of Napoleon: “Le coeur d’un homme d’Etat doit être dans sa tête”. 8. Thus it would appear that the role of the United Nations is to avoid premature actions which, once adopted, may one day be sorrowfully regretted. Red independence is the fruit of the natural growth of political institutions, founded on a sound economic and social structure. Let the people mature arid their institutions develop fully. Then independence will be a blessing; otherwise it will be just a dangerous illusion.