UN General Assembly
1947

It is impossible to speak of Europe without speaking of Germany. That is where the heart of European peace really lies, whether we consider the German problem per se or as one of the many problems of the present-day world. France, for its part, has always sought to consider this problem per se, for we know that until security with regard to Germany is guaranteed, no European settlement will alleviate anxiety and settle fundamental difficulties; hence, no settlement would be likely to last. This attitude is well known, but I think I should recall it before this Assembly, which is the highest tribunal for peoples and Governments. Since the defeat of Germany, France has always taken the same stand on the German problem. Its only wish is that Germany, in the future, should never again be in a position to threaten world peace.