UN General Assembly
1960

320. I would remind you that our testimony has some value, seeing that we have twice been unjustifiably invaded and that we have spent nine years under military occupation. Incidentally I would remind the Soviet delegation that in 1917, while our country was still occupied, Russia made peace with Germany, and that in 1940, when we were invaded, Russia, having signed a treaty of friendship with Herr Hitler, broke off diplomatic relations with us. But what is to be gained by recriminations? Do you believe that we can build a future with memories, even of the recent past? We hope and believe that after two terrible ordeals a new Germany has arisen which, as we can bear witness, has proved itself a loyal associate. I believe it is unjust to attribute to it a desire for revenge. Its Government has solemnly affirmed in public statements— the only authentic ones — that it renounces the use of force to further its claims. It is not that Government which proposes unilaterally to alter the status of Berlin. Lastly I would emphasize that the whole of its armed forces are integrated in a defensive alliance whose policies are formulated and controlled by a group of Powers which includes such peaceful nations as the Benelux countries.