UN General Assembly
1963

92. My delegation follows with keen interest the evolution towards independence in the various territories reported upon by the Special Committee of Twenty- Four. A colonial issue of major importance in the Arab homeland is the question of Aden and the protectorates in the southern Arabian Peninsula. The presence of a British military base in Aden is a cause of tension and insecurity in the whole region. The political measures and establishments which the colonial Power tries to impose in order to secure its continued presence in the colony of Aden and the protectorates are contrary to the national aspirations of the inhabitants who should be given full freedom to exercise the right of self-determination for the attainment of their independence and the achievement of their national and territorial unity. The United Nations itself, in view of the prevailing conditions in Aden and the protectorates, should see to it that the political future of the area is determined by the freely expressed will of its inhabitants. Such has been the practice of the United Nations on all similar colonial issues. This area, therefore, cannot be an exception. My delegation will give full consideration in due course to the important question of Aden.