UN General Assembly
1969

of this appeal by the General Assembly and the adoption by Governments of appropriate measures for its implementation will constitute a major step towards strengthening international security and world peace — a great victory for the United Nations. 36. The appeal expresses the deepest sentiments of the world community; it takes account of the demand of the present international situation. One of the most serious problems now threatening peace is the armed intervention of certain States against other States and peoples. The appeal is right in emphasizing this crucial question. 37. The withdrawal of all troops from territories occupied as a result of action by the armed forces of some States against other States defending the independence they have won as a result of the collapse of the colonial system is an essential condition for improving the international situation. The presence of foreign troops in those territories is a constant source of tension and insecurity; it is a flagrant violation of the principles of national independence and freedom, of the right of peoples freely to choose their