UN General Assembly
1963

The dedication with which your predecessor, Mr. President, discharged his duties makes it incumbent upon us to pay him a just tribute. We are convinced that you are actuated by the same feelings, and we are gratified at the choice the General Assembly has made in electing you. 2. There are situations in which words do not adequately render feelings. I cannot find terms sufficiently strong, sufficiently warm, to express my country's gratitude to the United Nations, to which it largely owes the very fact of its existence today. The significance of this undertaking, unique in the history of our Organization, extends beyond my country's borders. It is a fact that progress, in bringing us closer together, has made us more sensitive to events, no matter where they may take place.