UN General Assembly
1988

The path that we have followed in Guatemala to achieve a democratic Government that is respectful of its role the guarantee of freedoms and the faithful interpreter of the aspirations of the Guatemalan people has been long and difficult. My Government faced a difficult task 32 months ago - that of rebuilding a country that was just awakening to the dawn of a democratic era. It is no easy task to initiate and consolidate a democratic process in such a short time. Its enemies are many, as are misunderstandings and frustrations. In my country the majority were forgotten, only marginally benefiting from development and enjoying only minimum respect for their fundamental rights. Today we are learning how to live in a democracy. Guiding a people with a tradition of lack of understanding and intolerance requires moral strength and a firm commitment. Our daily struggle is hard, as we wish to build a truly free, truly just and truly united land. Our commitment is the result of our unbending will, our democratic faith and our historical experience.