The heroic deeds that thrill humanity through generations were the deeds of little nations fighting for their freedom. But in expressing his admiration, President Kennedy also stressed the need for small nations to take part in the great project of international cooperation. Great Powers have their responsibilities and their burdens, but the smaller nations of the world must fulfil their obligations as well. Such a compact must be based on a clear acknowledgement of our mutual interest and common fate, and on a commitment to do our utmost at all times to come together across the various lines that divide, be they economic or ethnic, cultural or confessional. Increasingly, all countries face the same challenges.
Some threats are overt, such as terrorism, pandemics and the proliferation of arms.
No country, no matter how big or powerful, can ward them off alone or address them in isolation. If this is our reality, then the importance of small nations is clear. We cannot do without you. We need you. The Organization continues to offer a way forward, a pragmatic way to address global problems in comprehensive fashion, based on the universal ideals found in the Charter.