UN General Assembly
1972

18. The continuation of the policy of racial discrimination and illegal minority rule in southern Africa constitutes a source of incessant tension in that region. My country has a full understanding of the sincere endeavors which African States have been making towards the goal of achieving self-determination and the elimination of racial discrimination and believes that the United Nations should further intensify its constructive efforts towards the earliest possible solution of these problems by peaceful means in accordance with the provisions of its Charter. Particularly under the present circumstances, in which direct talks between the parties concerned have become virtually impossible, it is my firm belief that the United Nations should be utilized in a more positive and constructive manner as a forum for consultations in which the parties concerned participate. The settlement of the questions related to southern Africa, naturally requires a patient and practical approach. In this sense, it is highly commendable that the Secretary-General has been conducting dialogs with all the parties concerned, including the Government of the Republic of South Africa, and has achieved some encouraging progress in respect of the question of Namibia, regarding which an impasse has persisted for so many years.