UN General Assembly
1961

222. This initiative taken by Ecuador has been received favourably by the majority of Latin American countries, and my delegation wishes to say through me and on behalf of my Government that we appreciate this and warmly thank the countries concerned, and that we trust that this initiative will also be viewed favourably by the majority of peoples in the other continents. 223. Almost all the Ministers for Foreign Affairs of Latin America, as well as public opinion and the press of the continent, have expressly welcomed this initiative through which my country has simply reiterated the well-defined principles which govern its international policy — principles which may be expressed as respect for the self-determination of peoples (considered of course as an integral function of nationality per se), as well as for the sovereignty of States and for their equality under law. 224. Ecuador views with deep interest the problems which affect its sister nations and will always be prepared to lend its assistance to ensure that any differences that may arise between them may be solved peacefully.