In accordance with a solid tradition, the delegations of States Members of the United Nations are meeting for the thirty-ninth time since it was founded for an annual evaluation by international diplomacy of the record established by the great family of nations since the last session of the General Assembly, in connection with the Organization's task of promoting peace and progress in the world on the basis of constructive dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
2.	This is not a purely routine gathering nor a mere ritual repeated automatically every 12 months. Rather, the annual session of the General Assembly is an ideal opportunity for Member States to exchange opinions on the serious, major concerns of our day and solemnly to reaffirm their faith in the purposes laid down in the Charter of the United Nations. It is in that spirit that the Rwandese Republic is taking part in the work of this session.
3.	At the present time, the international community is confronted with many major threats—threats that result from the increase in hotbeds of tension, from the persistence of conflicts for which attempts at settlement and mediation have remained ineffective, and from the crisis that continues to undermine the international economy.
4.	Given these threats, only tireless efforts, within the framework of the objectives of the United Nations, allow for a measure of optimism as to the prospects for a calmer and more harmonious atmosphere in international relations.
5.	While, at the political level, serious dangers continue to threaten international peace and security, on the economic level the situation remains characterized by stagnation that persists and worsens as the years go by.
6.	The negative repercussions of this situation, which is a tragedy for the least developed countries, whose socioeconomic prospects remain particularly grim, are many. I will mention but a few: galloping inflation, the constant deterioration of the terms of trade, the heavy indebtedness that is a source of concern for many developing countries, the slowdown in economic growth—not to mention the deficits and food shortages facing different parts of the world, and above all the African continent, which is haunted by the spectre of hunger caused, in particular, by its unpredictable climate.
7.	The size and seriousness of these problems, which are made more acute by the structural imbalances that now characterize international relations and by the protectionist designs of the industrialized countries, mean that comprehensive, lasting solutions are urgently needed.
8.	The rich and industrialized countries, in close cooperation with their partners in the third world, must adopt new strategies to ensure the implementation of programmes and action plans better adapted to the objective of promoting the economic development of the developing countries, which, in fact, are becoming poorer day by day, and of reducing the gap, which is widening steadily at the expense of those countries on the economic level.
9.	This objective is a challenge. It would not be difficult, much less impossible, to meet that challenge. It is a question of will, of determination and of political commitment, which should be reflected specifically in the stabilization and upward revaluation of the prices of commodities and raw materials on international markets, in an increase, in terms of volume and quality, of development assistance, especially for the least developed countries, and in the reduction of the interest rates on the international financial markets.
10.	Above and beyond these measures, the objective of giving new impetus to the world economy, taking into account the interests and needs of all the partners, is dependent on the structural and fundamental reforms that are necessary to make the present system more harmonious and to establish a new international economic order based on complementarity and active and effective solidarity.
11.	Global negotiation on international economic cooperation for development, the principle of which was decided on at the thirty-fourth session of the General Assembly, remain the appropriate framework for the promotion of that new international economic order.
12.	We therefore deplore the fact that those global negotiations have not yet begun. Such negotiations should make it possible to adopt specific provisions to promote, within the framework of mutually beneficial cooperation and firmer solidarity, the economic launching of the so-called developing countries and the steady development of their partners in the industrialized world.
13.	It is in this spirit that the Rwandese Republic attaches a great deal of interest and importance to the North South dialogue, the long overdue launching of which would be in the interests of the entire international community.
14.	In spite of the efforts made by the United Nations, especially within the framework of the tasks of its specialized agencies, such as UNDP, UNCTAD and UNIDO, we must recognize that this dialogue is now at an impasse. Thus, the Fourth General Conference of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, held at Vienna from 2 to 19 August 1984, concluded its work without having arrived at concrete results, contrary to the hopes and expectations of the developing countries, whose industrialization needs remain considerable because the transfer of the capital and technology that would make it possible for them to ensure the development of their natural resources has not taken place.
15.	Apart from the North South dialogue, Rwanda attaches a great deal of importance to the promotion and strengthening of horizontal cooperation among the countries of the third world. We support the objectives of the Lagos Plan of Action for the implementation of the Monrovia Strategy for the Economic Development of Africa, adopted by the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the Organization of African Unity in April 1980, with a view to the progressive promotion of the socioeconomic integration that will make it possible for our continent to achieve collective self-reliance. Furthermore, Rwanda seeks the continuous development of its relations of cooperation with other third world countries, on the bilateral as well as the multilateral level and especially within the framework of Arab African cooperation
16.	The crisis that is undermining the world economy and that worsens steadily as the years go by is certainly a generalized one. However, its impact is felt in different degrees according to the specific problems that stem from it or that it exacerbates for given countries, given regions or given categories of countries.
17.	Hence, the effects of the crisis are particularly serious for a country which, like Rwanda, is one of the group of least developed countries and is confronting various handicaps, such as being landlocked, lacking natural resources and suffering from a shortage of arable land, a problem that is all the more important since agriculture constitutes the main economic activity of a population with a particularly high growth rate and a disproportionate economic growth rate.
18.	Faced with these handicaps, Rwanda relies above all on the national effort to ensure the development of its economy, but the resources that can be thus mobilized are tragically inadequate given the magnitude of our needs For example, we are compelled to have recourse to intervention by our foreign partners for more than 60 per cent of the finance needed to implement the most important and urgent part of our five-year development plan.
19.	In these conditions, an increase in international development aid is of crucial importance for a country such as Rwanda. We are therefore extremely concerned at the steady trend towards reduction in the financing capacity of international agencies such as UNDP, the World Bank and, more precisely, its subsidiary the IDA, whose work is particularly appreciated by the developing countries which are not in a position to meet the terms for credit at market rates. At the same time, with rare exceptions, we have witnessed a stagnation of resources devoted to development aid in the framework of bilateral cooperation.
20.	In this context, few industrialized countries have been able to meet the target and commitment to devote 0.7 per cent of their gross national product to development aid and, furthermore, pledges made at the United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries, held in Paris in September 1981, have not yet been followed by concrete action with a view to reducing the constraints faced by that category of countries.
21.	Far from yielding to pessimism, as far as we are concerned, Rwanda remains convinced that the efforts and initiatives aimed at promoting effective solidarity in the international community will make it possible to stem the negative effects of the present crisis and to offer to the third world countries the resources they need to escape from underdevelopment.
22.	On the basis of this conviction—which is at the same time an expression of hope—on behalf of the Government and people of Rwanda, I should like from this rostrum to reiterate the most heartfelt and sincere thanks of our people to all the partners, friendly countries and international organizations that support our country and will continue to back it in its development efforts.
23.	The African continent, where most of the countries in the least developed category, as defined by the United Nations, are located, is particularly harshly affected by the effects of the international economic crisis. In addition to the negative factors inherent in this generalized and persistent crisis, Africa is at grips with natural disasters such as drought and desertification, which, because they considerably reduce agricultural production, year after year worsen the problem—and I would even call it the tragedy—of hunger, which, according to available statistics, threatens approximately one third of the total population of the continent.
24.	In the course of years, the number of African countries facing the dramatic effects of climate changes increases steadily. Thus, this year, as a result of a long and unusual drought, Rwanda, my own country, registered a deficit of 60 per cent in its normal agricultural production. Given that situation, the Government of Rwanda was compelled to request emergency food aid from its foreign partners in order to make it possible for the hardest hit population to confront the present shortages.
25.	My delegation wishes here to renew the sincere thanks of the Government and people of Rwanda to all the friendly countries and international agencies that responded so generously to our appeal.
26.	Rwanda feels that international cooperation in respect of food strategy is necessary in order to promote the adoption and implementation of appropriate programmes of action that can make it possible for the countries experiencing climate disturbances and a progressive reduction in their agricultural production to guarantee food self-sufficiency.
27.	At the political level, the situation prevailing in the international community is still marked by a number of crises, the persistence of tension in various parts of the world and the pursuance of overt conflicts that bear the seeds and the growing danger of a new world cataclysm. These tensions and conflicts stem from differing interests or from the determination of oppressed peoples to obtain, at all costs, recognition of and respect for their most fundamental rights, such as the right to freedom and independence.
28.	Countries which express complete support for the ideals of the United Nations cannot remain indifferent to the fate of those peoples. It is in this context that the Government of Rwanda is very attentively following initiatives aimed at promoting a policy of detente in southern Africa and at putting an end to the violence that so seriously imperils development in that longsuffering region of the African continent.
29.	For several months, that policy seems to have been prevailing; even in that racist minority South African regime which has accustomed us to its arrogant will to defy continually principles of morality and international ethics.
30.	Should we believe that that regime has now changed for the better and that it is now inspired by a real and effective will to commit itself to constructive changes with regard to respect for rights recognized for all peoples under the Charter of the United Nations? Raising this question is tantamount to voicing the hope and the wish that the course of dialogue, to which South Africa seems to be committing itself, will enable its neighbours to remove those obstacles which it is placing in the way of their security and development and, at the same time, that this dialogue will turn out to be a constructive one, making it possible to achieve the legitimate aspirations of the Namibian people to independence, as well as those of the majority of the South African population to live in a society in which the value of man and his dignity will no longer be determined by his race or the colour of his skin.
31.	If this hope and aspiration are not achieved, it would be an illusion to expect a positive effect from what, for South Africa's part, would be a parody of dialogue and a game of duplicity likely to jeopardize the development taking place in southern Africa that would promote and facilitate the implementation of the process laid down by the United Nations in Security Council resolution 435 (1978) aimed at ensuring Namibia's accession to independence. At the same time, that evolution should commit South Africa to a policy of genuine democracy, putting an end to the humiliations and acts of oppression imposed in that country by a minority regime which practices anachronistic racism.
32.	The Rwandese Republic reaffirms its solidarity with the South West Africa People's Organization [SWAPO], which is recognized by the international community as the sole legitimate representative of the Namibian people, in its struggle, in particular at the diplomatic level, for recognition of the right of that people to self-determination and independence, in accordance with the relevant decisions of the United Nations and without the imposition by South Africa—which is in military occupation of and illegally administering the Territory of Namibia—of conditions extraneous to the problem of the independence of Namibia, which would constitute unacceptable interference in matters relating to the sovereignty of another country.
33.	The Rwandese Republic would also like to reiterate its solidarity with the authentic liberation movements recognized by the international community which are struggling for the triumph of human rights, dignity, freedom and justice in South Africa. Thus, the Rwandese Government condemns as a ruse which deceives no one the constitutional amendments to which the Pretoria regime has resorted in desperation, as well as the electoral masquerade in which it has engaged within the framework of a strategy designed to perpetuate its odious policy of apartheid and racial discrimination. The Rwandese Republic demands the cessation of this policy and the establishment in South Africa of a genuinely democratic society based on equality of rights and respect for the dignity of all South Africans.
34.	The amendments made to the South African constitution are only internal minor changes in a system whose basic principles have in no way changed. Thus, because they are black, the majority of South Africans continue to be treated as foreigners in their own country, kept outside political institutions by a regime which exploits them to the hilt and denies them their most fundamental rights. Furthermore, the policy of forced migration of populations and the establishment of bantustans with sham independence continues unabated. This is why the Rwandese Republic continues to denounce the reactionary, unacceptable policy of the South African Government. In the present context, this consistent attitude of the Government of Rwanda is accompanied by the fervent wish that the staunch supporters of the doctrine of apartheid will heed the voice of reason and the legitimate claims of the oppressed people. At the same time, we hope that South Africa will do everything necessary to fulfil the commitments it has undertaken vis-à-vis certain frontline States, in order to establish a climate likely to ensure genuine and effective detente in southern Africa, in a spirit of mutual respect and in the interest of the sacred cause of independence and freedom.
35.	It is in this spirit that the General Assembly calls for profound, substantive changes in South African policy to ensure the positive development of the situation prevailing in that region and the establishment of a just and democratic society in South Africa to end the vicious circle of excessive violence.
36.	The Rwandese Republic firmly believes in the virtues of dialogue as long as it is constructive and free from ulterior motives designed to compromise established principles and concepts.
37.	The Government of Rwanda believes that it is in the context of such a frank and constructive dialogue that other major political problems facing Africa should be satisfactorily solved. I have in mind here the conflicts in Western Sahara and in Chad, which, along with the problems of southern Africa, are matters of great concern to the Organization of African Unity [OAU].
38.	The conflict in Western Sahara is a problem of decolonization, and it can be solved only through respect for and the application of the universal principle of the right of all peoples to self-determination. By virtue of this principle—and we deplore the fact that it can be applied in a selective manner, to the detriment of the people of the Sahara—the necessary steps should be taken in good faith and a spirit of confidence to enable that people freely to decide its own future.
39.	To this end, at the nineteenth ordinary session, held at Addis Ababa in June 1983, the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the Organization of African Unity adopted a resolution advocating a direct dialogue between the protagonists in the conflict and the organization of a referendum in Western Sahara. The timetable established in this connection has not been respected, but the resolution nevertheless constitutes a suitable basis for an equitable solution that deals just with the Saharan people and enables them to exercise their rights. In the same spirit, the thirty-eighth session of the General Assembly adopted resolution 38/40 on 7 December 1983.
40.	Deeply committed to the universal principle which recognizes and establishes the right of all peoples without exception to self-determination, the Rwandese Republic cherishes the hope that Morocco and the Frente POLISARIO will embark resolutely on negotiations in order to achieve a ceasefire without delay and organize a referendum on self-determination in Western Sahara, in accordance with the relevant resolutions of the United Nations and the OAU.
41.	For some 20 years, Chad has been in the grip of a fratricidal conflict resulting from divisions and disputes which sap its energies, despite the appeals for dialogue and national reconciliation constantly made by the international community, particularly from this rostrum.
42.	Thus, during the thirty-eighth session, on behalf of the Rwandese Republic, I noted that the continuance of this conflict seriously impeded the development of that brother country, which needs the contributions of all its sons and daughters to ensure its reconstruction and guarantee the rehabilitation of its economy, which has been devastated by so many years of war. Last year I also stressed that this work of national reconstruction and rehabilitation constituted a challenge which all the people of Chad had to meet in order to ensure their future. There is one prerequisite in this regard: the people of Chad must overcome the divisions and disputes which fuel the struggles for power and the futile quarrels. Indeed, the settlement of the Chadian problem is first and foremost a matter for the Chadians themselves, united in their efforts to achieve the fundamental goal of effective and lasting national reconciliation and in the search for a political settlement that will enable the people of Chad to safeguard the higher interests of their country, preserve Chad's territorial integrity and consolidate its independence, while guaranteeing that all their vital energies will be devoted to rebuilding its institutions and developing its economy.
43.	In the Horn of Africa, the political climate is still marked by continuing tension, which causes grave concern. The Rwandese Republic believes that the parties involved should adopt, within the context of brotherly dialogue, a strategy that can bring peace, security, detente and stability to this area, which is one of the most sensitive in Africa. This strategy should be worked out and adopted on the basis of the principles of non-interference in the internal affairs of other States, respect for their sovereignty and territorial integrity and the peaceful settlement of disputes, as advocated by the United Nations, the OAU and the Movement of Nonaligned Countries. The delegation of the Rwandese Republic is convinced that respect for these universal principles, which form the basis of international morality and ethics, will promote within the comity of nations fruitful relations transcending the political and ideological differences that result in the kind of disputes of which we see examples in the present situation in the Horn of Africa.
44.	While we must deplore the problems that hinder the promotion of a climate of security in Africa, we have to say that the continent does not have a monopoly of tensions and conflict situations. The objective of promoting genuine, effective and constructive detente within the international community is hampered by latent or declared conflicts which are developing or are being carried on in other parts of the world.
45.	For more than 30 years, faithful to the principles of international law, the countries that love peace, justice and freedom have deplored the situation prevailing in the Middle East. It is a dangerously explosive situation, which seriously threatens the security of the States of the region, and even international security, because of the denial of justice to an entire people—the Palestinian people—through the unacceptable, arrogant policy of a State, Israel, whose policy has become the law of force, replacing the force of law. The rejection of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, the occupation of Arab territories, the annexation of the Holy City of Jerusalem, an aggressive policy in constant defiance of the principles of international law—these are some aspects of a continuing crisis which the United Nations constantly deplores, a crisis that is the responsibility of one State that has not drawn the lessons of its own history and has therefore become an implacable and unyielding enemy of a people fighting for the recognition of its most elementary and fundamental rights.
46.	In the view of the Government of Rwanda, whose solidarity with the Palestinian people results from an objective analysis of the factors involved in the crisis and whose position on the matter has been constant, any solution to the Middle East conflict aimed at establishing a comprehensive, lasting peace in the region must be based on recognition of, and respect for, the inalienable, fundamental rights of the Palestinian people. These include the right to its own homeland, in which it may establish the institutional and governmental structures of its own choice, with respect for the principles of international law, under the auspices of its legitimate and authentic representatives. In this spirit, I repeat, on behalf of the Government and people of Rwanda, the unswerving support of the Rwandese Republic for efforts to preserve cohesion within the Palestinian resistance, as well as our solidarity with the Palestinian people, which, under the banner of the Palestine Liberation Organization V.PLO], is pursuing its just struggle, in legitimate self-defence, to secure recognition of its rights, in accordance with the relevant resolutions of the United Nations, the OAU and the Movement of Nonaligned Countries.
47.	The State of Israel, which rejects out of hand decisions concerning respect for the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, is also notable for a blatant disregard for the principles of respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other States. It seems to have set itself the goal of placing Lebanon under its protection, jeopardizing the efforts of the leaders of that martyred country to implement a comprehensive plan that would guarantee security and stability for the benefit of all Lebanese and would open the way to national reconciliation. Part of that country's territory has been under Israeli occupation since the tragic events of June 1982. Faced with this situation, the delegation of Rwanda believes that the total, unconditional withdrawal of the foreign troops of aggression that occupy nearly one third of Lebanese territory will enable the Government of Lebanon to exercise its sovereignty over the whole of its territory, preserve the independence of its country and work to rebuild its economy in a climate of peace, security and national reconciliation.
48.	Five years ago, the differences that for more than 100 years had been a source of tension between Iraq and Iran erupted into an open conflict which has caused ever-increasing casualties and material losses. Recent developments in this conflict, and the prospect of a merciless war of extermination, give rise to grave apprehensions about the risk of its leading to a large-scale confrontation, which would be a serious threat to international peace and security. The United Nations, the Movement of non-aligned Countries and the Organization of the Islamic Conference have spared no effort to persuade the two belligerents to take part in negotiations to end an absurd and costly war which seriously jeopardizes the interests of two brother countries that are raising the stakes in a way that harms the interests of their peoples. Once again, the delegation of Rwanda expresses the hope that Iraq and Iran will be persuaded by the repeated appeals to return to the path of peace and once and for all to abandon the path of hate and bloody and destructive conflict.
49.	Since the thirty-fifth session, among the serious problems which, because they interrupt the momentum gradually acquired by the policy of detente, stand in the way of international peace and security, the Organization has been dealing each year with the crisis which broke out at the end of 1979 in Afghanistan. The majority of Member States have taken a clear stance in favour of the total and unconditional withdrawal from that country of foreign forces, in order to enable the Afghan people to settle its problems in full sovereignty and free from all foreign interference.
50.	In Southeast Asia, since December 1978, the Cambodian people has been tragically undergoing foreign interference in a political crisis which has turned into a bloody power struggle.
51.	We regret to have to note that there has been no tangible and substantive progress towards a settlement—settlement remains entirely theoretical—of the situation in Afghanistan and Cambodia, which sows the seeds of tension and instability in Asia, harming the spirit of detente and harmony which should underlie international relations.
52.	In this context, it is urgently necessary that the needed steps be taken to foster and facilitate the search for political solutions to the Afghan crisis and the Cambodian problem, with scrupulous respect for the principles of non-interference in the internal affairs of other States and of the peaceful settlement of disputes.
'3. That same reliance on the fundamental principles set out in the Charter of the United Nations should also be seen in the context of bringing together in unity nations which are still divided.
54. In line with these principles—whose complete implementation would promote the effective establishment of an atmosphere of peace and detente throughout the world—the Rwandese Republic greatly appreciates and supports the tireless efforts and initiatives aimed at promoting gradual normalization of relations between the Federal Republic of Germany and the German Democratic Republic, while waiting for the realization of the legitimate aspiration of the German people to regain its unity at the end of a process in which dialogue and respect for the right of all divided nations to seek the ways and means to regain their unity in peace and free from all outside interference and pressure constitute a principal element.
55.	Rwanda firmly believes in the virtues of dialogue and is devoted to the principle that divided nations have the right to seek, by themselves and without outside interference or pressure, the best formula to promote the reunification of their countries and the participation of their peoples in building a world of peace, complementarity and effective solidarity. That is why we also support realistic initiatives aimed at ensuring, in that spirit, the peaceful and independent reunification of the Korean nation.
56.	Since 1974, the island of Cyprus has faced de facto partition. Despite the efforts made by the United Nations, this problem persists, and there seems to have been no progress along the lines hoped for by the international community as a whole towards the achievement of a solution which would allow every Cypriot citizen to return to his home and to live in a country where communal characteristics complement one another rather than sowing fratricidal quarrels.
57.	The problem of Cyprus is one in which reunification should be brought about through peaceful negotiations, without outside interference and with respect for the territorial integrity of the country.
58.	The serious concern aroused by the persistence of open crises and by the proliferation of hotbeds of tension in various regions of the world has been exacerbated by the present escalation of the arms race, a frenzied race which is dragging mankind towards a new conflagration—towards its own annihilation. The arms race will lead to massive genocide; it has already had a negative impact, with a continuing and increasing build-up in the struggle for influence.
59.	In spite of the efforts made by nations which cherish peace and which are aware of the effects of this arms race and of this escalation, there has yet to be any substantial progress towards disarmament. It is time—high time—that negotiations were resumed and that they resulted in the adoption of effective, specific measures in the context of true and effective detente, in accordance with the relevant General Assembly resolutions, resolutions which are in keeping with the wishes and aspirations of the international community.
60.	The preservation and promotion of peace requires a staunch and persistent will to negotiate in order to achieve the gradual and balanced reduction of the arsenals which were established and which grow day by day in an atmosphere of mistrust and fear, pressing the Powers directly involved unceasingly to arm themselves further.
61.	In this process, we see a spiral which I would not hesitate to call frenzied; it takes up major human, material, scientific and financial resources which would be more usefully employed for humanitarian ends, especially the promotion of social and economic development, in particular for the disadvantaged countries.
62.	The Rwandese Republic is convinced that the frenzied arms race can in no way guarantee international security and that, on the contrary, it is leading mankind inexorably to the brink of the abyss, and we share the same concerns and the same aspirations of all the other countries that are actively pressing for the limitation and reduction of expenditures on arms, which should be reallocated to peaceful and humanitarian objectives. This reallocation would be a highly significant and positive factor towards curing the ills of the world economy, particularly in the present period of continuing crisis.
63.	In referring to the great political, social and economic problems now at the heart of the concerns of the international community, I wished to review, on behalf of the Rwandese Republic, the main challenges which the United Nations must contribute to meeting in order to remove the major obstacles to the promotion of more harmonious international relations, marked by an effective will to establish a climate of peace and security and to provide for the social and economic development of all peoples in a spirit of mutual trust and active solidarity.
64.	In spite of the very real difficulties we must continue to confront with hope and optimism, the Organization has a generally positive record in this regard, in so far as it remains within the context in which, for 39 years, the Assembly has regularly adopted resolutions and decisions defining appropriate means of settlement for the great political, social and economic problems of today.
65.	The Rwandese Republic regrets that most of these resolutions and decisions remain dead letters. But this should not make the United Nations lose sight of the noble objectives of the Charter and thus to inspire hope for a better world, a world based on the great vision of peace, security, and social and economic progress in a climate of dialogue, mutual trust, complementarity and solidarity among peoples.
66.	It is in that spirit that today, on behalf of Major General Juvenal Habyarimana, President of the Rwandese Republic and President Founder of the National Revolutionary Movement for Development, I solemnly renew the commitment of the Rwandese Republic to continue to contribute, to the best of its ability, to efforts to consolidate and strengthen confidence in the United Nations, on the basis of the fundamental principles enshrined in its Charter. In this respect, the delegation of Rwanda hopes that the work of the General Assembly at the present session will lead to decisions that will enable the United Nations to establish new landmarks on mankind's journey to the effective and complete implementation of the objectives which flow from those principles.
67.	In that context, Mr. President, you have been entrusted with a very important task, that of guiding the work and the debates of this Assembly. In view of your talents and your experience as a wise and knowledgeable diplomat, the delegation of Rwanda is convinced that you will be able to discharge, in an outstanding manner, the difficult task entrusted to you, which is a tribute to your outstanding personal qualities and your competence, and a tribute also to the constructive role played by your country, Zambia, in the United Nations.
68.	In expressing in my turn, as other speakers before me have done, our warm and fraternal congratulations on your election as President of this thirty-ninth session, I should like to stress that your election does outstanding honour to our continent and, in particular, to a country with which the Rwandese Republic is gratified and honoured to have excellent relations of brotherly friendship.
69.	I should like also to pay a tribute to Mr. Jorge E. Illueca, who presided over the work of the thirty eighth session with most commendable efficiency.
70.	I should like also to take this opportunity to renew to the Secretary General the expression of the great esteem which the Rwandese Republic has for the farsightedness, competence and dynamism with which he dedicates himself to the achievement of his noble and onerous task.
71.	Finally, before leaving this rostrum, I should like, on behalf of the Rwandese Republic, to welcome into the United Nations its 159th Member State, the independent Sultanate of Brunei Darussalam. The Rwandese Republic heralded its accession to independence on 1 January 1984 as a further step in the achievement of one of the fundamental aims of the United Nations, the liberation of all peoples from the yoke of colonialism. Its admission bears witness to the universality of the Organization as well as to our unswerving devotion to the principles enshrined in the Charter.


On behalf of the Government and people of Japan, I wish, Sir, to extend to you my heartfelt congratulations on your election to the presidency of the thirty-ninth session of the General Assembly. I am confident that, given the wealth of your experience and the wisdom of your views, this session will prove fruitful indeed. Please be assured that the delegation of Japan will spare no effort in cooperating with you as you carry out your important duties.
87.	At the same time, I should like to express my deep appreciation to the President of the thirty eighth session of the General Assembly, Mr. Jorge Illueca, for the very capable manner in which he discharged his awesome responsibilities.
88.	I should also like to take this opportunity to pay a tribute to the Secretary General. As we begin this third year under his leadership, I am most encouraged by his determined efforts and capable leadership in the face of the harsh international situation.
89.	I am pleased to be able to extend a sincere welcome to Brunei Darussalam as the 159th country to be admitted to United Nations membership. As an Asian country itself, Japan is most happy to welcome this new Member.
90.	Nearly 40 years have passed since the end of the Second World War. This has been a period of unprecedented political, economic and social change throughout the world. The scale and gravity of these ever accelerating changes make it impossible for any one country to respond adequately on its own, yet the urgency of the situation demands that we respond without delay. There is a crying need for fresh perceptions and international cooperation. Nevertheless, the international situation remains tense.
91.	East West relations, especially relations between the United States and the Soviet Union, are languishing, and the arms control and disarmament talks between the two countries are suspended. Regional conflicts and disputes continue to foster instability worldwide.
92.	In the world economy, the problems of unemployment and massive governmental deficits remain unsolved and protectionism is firmly entrenched even as the recovery, centred in the industrialized countries, takes held and gains strength. The developing countries continue to face a myriad of difficulties, as may be seen in their cumulative foreign indebtedness and the critical food situation in Africa.
93.	At the same time, however, patient cooperative efforts to bring about the relaxation of tensions and economic recovery are continuing here in the United Nations, as well as in multilateral and bilateral forums, and these efforts are gradually gaining momentum.
94.	Looking back, Japan's post-war peace and prosperity were considerably facilitated by the prevailing international situation. Today, the changes in the international climate and the growth in the Japanese economy mean that Japan is increasingly expected to fulfil new international responsibilities commensurate with its national strength.
95.	Since becoming Minister for Foreign Affairs, I have sought to bring about peace and prosperity in Asia and throughout the world by stepping up Japan's diplomatic efforts to promote disarmament and the relaxation of tensions; seeking to revitalize the economies of the developing countries through economic exchange; strengthening the bonds of cooperation and solidarity within the free world; promoting Japan's relations of friendship and cooperation with the countries of the Asia Pacific region; and seeking mutual understanding through dialogue with the Eastern bloc. With the international situation becoming increasingly difficult, I am resolved to respond to the hopes which the international community has placed in Japan by developing a creative diplomacy for a more active and more constructive approach in keeping with the five goals just enumerated.
96.	From this perspective, I should like to say a few words now on some of the international issues which I regard as especially important and to explain Japan's foreign policy and its efforts on these issues.
97.	The first is the creation of a climate conducive to peace. With the world as unstable as it is today, the best and surest way to avert a potentially catastrophic war is to deter expansion and, more important, to prevent escalation of the various regional conflicts that erupt all over the globe, and then to alleviate these conflicts and find some way to resolve the underlying issues.
98.	The tense situation surrounding the Iran Iraq conflict persists. The Secretary General's initiative last June produced agreement by both sides not to attack civilian population centres.  Believing that such agreements are important steps toward inhibiting further escalation, Japan has the highest regard for the Secretary General for having taken this initiative, as well as for Iran and Iraq for having acceded to his proposal. However, my Government finds it regrettable that attacks were recently made on industrial and economic facilities in both countries.
99.	For the future, the issues before us are, first, how to prevent any escalation of the conflict and then how to build upon present efforts to scale down the conflict further. I hope the Secretary General will continue to play an active role to that end. I am confident that the steady weight of such efforts goes far towards ensuring the success of the peace process. From this perspective, I would hope very much that the following two points would be promptly settled.
100.	The first concerns the issue of chemical weapons. Given the present circumstances, it seems to be essential to reach a clear understanding that there will be no future violations of the 1925 Geneva Protects prohibiting the use of chemical weapons.
101.	The second concerns the issue of safe navigation in the Gulf. This is important not only to Iran and Iraq but to all countries. Ensuring safe navigation requires that the principle of free navigation be observed in international waters in the Gulf and also that the safe use of ports and harbours be respected. It is of vital importance that the ports and harbours of both countries should not be subject to attacks of any kind. Past United Nations resolutions may provide reference in defining ports and harbours in this connection.
102.	I am confident that the settlement of these two points would contribute to the creation of a climate conducive to the just and honourable settlement of this conflict, now in its fifth year, and I strongly hope that these issues will be accorded comprehensive and serious consideration.
103.	I have been very much concerned with the situation in this region throughout my tenure as Foreign Minister. I have met with the leaders of both Iran and Iraq several times, developed a sympathetic understanding of their positions and appealed to both sides for an early peace. In consultation with the Secretary General and all other countries which seek peace in this region, I intend to continue to make every possible effort to create a climate conducive to peace.
104.	Turning to Asia, the problem of Kampuchea remains unresolved. Japan has consistently supported a comprehensive political settlement of the Kampuchean problem based upon the withdrawal of all foreign military forces from Kampuchea and the exercise of the right of the Kampuchean people to self-determination. At the same time, Japan believes that it is important to continue to explore various means in search of a clue to the solution of this problem, while maintaining its basic position. From this point of view, I made a three point proposal centring upon financial support to the dialogue partners at the ministerial meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations [ASEAN] at Jakarta in July.
105.	To summarize the proposal: the first point concerns financial cooperation for peacekeeping activities in the event of last September's ASEAN appeal being implemented, with the consent of all the countries concerned; the second concerns cooperation, such as providing personnel, if free elections are held throughout the whole of Kampuchean territory under international supervision; and the third concerns Japan's  co-operation in the reconstruction of Indo China after peace has been restored in Kampuchea.
106.	While fully aware that there are many difficulties on the road to peace in Kampuchea, Japan hopes that this proposal will be helpful in creating a climate conducive to peace in IndoChina, and we intend to continue our dialogue with the ASEAN countries as well as with the other countries concerned, including Viet Nam.
107.	While the tense situation continues in the Korean peninsula, the Korean question should basically be resolved peacefully through direct dialogue between the authorities of both North and South. Japan strongly hopes that substantive dialogue will be resumed between the two sides as soon as possible.
108.	Earlier this month, President Chun DooHwan of the Republic of Korea paid an official visit to Japan. On that occasion, Japan reiterated its welcome and support for United Nations membership for both North and South Korea, if both sides would consider such membership as one step on the road to reunification of the Korean peninsula, as contributing to the relaxation of tensions and as enhancing the universality of the United Nations. For its part, Japan will continue to cooperate in every way possible to create a climate conducive to the relaxation of tensions in the Korean peninsula.
109.	Elsewhere in the world I find it most regrettable that in the past year no concrete progress has been made in resolving the problems in Afghanistan and the Middle East. In Afghanistan, I call upon all parties concerned for a prompt withdrawal of Soviet troops, the restoration of self-determination for the Afghan people and a safe and honourable return for the refugees. On the issue of peace in the Middle East, I again appeal to all the principals involved to make even greater efforts for the attainment of a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in the Middle East.
110.	Despite the implementation of the plan for civil order in Lebanon in July, the United States Embassy annex was brutally bombed just last week. This deplorable incident shows how fragile the peace in Lebanon is. For the sake of stability in Lebanon, I hope that all the parties concerned will redouble their efforts for the withdrawal of all foreign military forces and the attainment of national reconciliation.
111.	Japan strongly calls upon the Republic of South Africa to abandon its policy of racial discrimination. Likewise, we hope that the issue of Namibian independence will be promptly resolved through the implementation of Security Council resolution 435 (1978) and that the United Nations will exercise its leadership on this issue.
112.	In Central America, where tensions continue high, Japan strongly supports the efforts being made by the Contadora Group and other intraregional efforts.
113.	The Soviet Union being an important neighbour of Japan, I would like again this year to touch upon relations between Japan and the Soviet Union. I find it most regrettable that the Soviet Union has not only refused to sit down to discuss the still unresolved issue of Japan's Northern Territories, but has even deployed and strengthened its military forces in our Northern Territories in recent years. Japan very much hopes to resolve this territorial issue and conclude a peace treaty with the Soviet Union and hence to promote the establishment of a stable relationship based upon true mutual understanding and trust. We therefore intend to continue to expand and strengthen the dialogue with the Soviet Union, and I hope that the Soviet Union will show a similar willingness.
114.	I would next like to speak of the search for long-lasting and structural peace—another priority of Japanese foreign policy.
115.	The excessive stockpiles of nuclear weapons existing today threaten the very survival of mankind. We must find some way to eliminate this threat.
116.	Last June I attended the Conference on Disarmament, at Geneva, the first Japanese Foreign Minister ever to do so, and appealed to the United States, the Soviet Union and all countries of the world to make serious efforts for disarmament. Especially regarding the negotiations on intermediate range nuclear forces and the strategic arms reduction talks, which are currently suspended between the United States and the Soviet Union, I strongly called upon the Soviet Union to fulfil its grave responsibilities as a nuclear superpower by returning to the negotiating table as soon as possible and without preconditions, both in response to the global popular demand for peace and to maintain and strengthen the regime of the Treaty on the Non-proliferation of Nuclear Weapons
117.	As a means of advancing the goal of a comprehensive nuclear test ban, I proposed a realistic approach whereby the "threshold" for a nuclear test ban would be gradually lowered as multilateral capabilities of verification are improved. I very much hope that this proposal will be taken up and discussed in greater detail at next year's meetings of the Conference on Disarmament.
118.	In the nonnuclear weapons field, the world is now more keenly aware than ever before of the need for a ban on chemical weapons.
119.	The issue of preventing an arms race in outer space has also become a matter of increasing international concern, and there was recently hope that talks might soon start between the United States and the Soviet Union. These hopes reflected the fervent desire of the people of all countries for the arms control and disarmament negotiations to resume. I earnestly hope that, in response to these wishes, the nuclear disarmament talks will progress and East West relations will improve.
120.	The United Nations, where we are gathered today, is the only institutional foundation for peace agreed upon by the many countries of the world. Having experienced the horror of the Second World War, Japan proclaimed its renunciation of force as a means of settling international disputes and has been working ever since to settle disputes peaceably. Reaffirming this basic policy stance, Japan is resolved to contribute even more actively to the peaceful resolution of conflicts and the preservation and strengthening of peace through the Security Council, the International Court of Justice and other organs of the United Nations.
121.	Although some people have recently been critical or scornful of the United Nations, we must never forget that the scale and complexity of the political and economic difficulties facing the global community today are intractable to solution by any one country acting alone and can be resolved only through multilateral cooperation.
122.	In his report on the work of the Organization, the Secretary General has written:
"To make the United Nations work better, what is needed, above all, is a determined and persistent effort to strike a balance between national and international interest.
"... therefore, I wish to repeat my call for a multilateral and rational approach to the problems of international peace and development."
I am in complete agreement with the Secretary General's views, and I intend to continue to seek peace and prosperity for Japan within the context of peace and prosperity for all the world.
123.	The United Nations will be 40 years old next year, and I think this is an excellent time for all Member States to give serious consideration to how we can best invigorate the United Nations organization and functions as we look ahead to the twenty first century. Japan pledges to fulfil its international responsibilities and to work with other Member countries for the revitalization of this world body.
124.	Thirdly, I would like to say a few words about actions which must be taken in order to cope with the new age and which will always be required for the survival and prosperity of mankind.
125.	The new nations of Africa, which appeared so youthful and robust in 1960—the "Year of Africa"— face almost unbearable difficulties today. Over 150 million people have been stricken with malnutrition and starvation on the African continent, and more and more unfortunate people are dying every day. This situation is even worse than war—it is an affront to peace. How can we speak of peace while this tragedy continues? I feel it was therefore most timely for the Secretary General to call early this year for relief for the crisis in Africa. The question before us now is whether or not the world will respond sympathetically to this tragedy, and the very value of the United Nations itself is on the line.
126.	This unprecedented crisis does not arise solely from a quirk of nature but is rooted in a variety of structural causes. Accordingly, while the need to relieve starvation is of obvious urgency, it is imperative on a more fundamental level that our reach extend to the complex web of structural factors and that we treat this not with a bewildering array of contradictory policy responses, but with a cooperative and comprehensive solution involving the international community.
127.	Allow me to propose that all United Nations agencies be mobilized to draw up a unified plan of action for Africa making effective use of the total range of United Nations capabilities. At the same time, allow me to call upon all United Nations Member States for their support and participation as the Organization moves to implement specific actions in accordance with that plan.
128.	As a start, Japan has already pledged over $100 million in food assistance to Africa this year, and we are engaged in candid discussions with African countries to explore what we can do to help promote food production in the region and cooperate effectively with their nation building. Over the past 10 years, Japan has achieved dramatic increases in its economic cooperation with the countries of Africa, and we are already the second largest non-regional subscriber to the African Development Fund and the African Development Bank. In the field of technical cooperation as well, over 40 per cent of all Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers are sent to Africa, where they promote cooperation at the grassroots level. Within Japan itself, the month beginning 28 September has been declared the "Month of Africa", and we intend to publicize African cultural, social and historical traditions so as to enhance further Japanese understanding of Africa's present plight, to spark a broad-based fundraising drive and to arouse popular support and cooperation for the countries of Africa.
129.	I hope that this session's debate on the problems of Africa will be an opportunity for bringing our various national efforts together and generating the momentum needed to overcome the crisis on that continent.
130.	I should like next to turn my attention to the world economy. Today all countries, industrialized and developing, find their economies irrevocably interdependent. Effective cooperation among countries is indispensable to resolving the complex difficulties afflicting the world economy.
131.	One of the problems demanding effective international cooperation, one of the most important issues facing many of the developing countries today, is that of their cumulative indebtedness. This problem has the potential of wreaking havoc not only on the debtor countries but also on the entire world economy. !t is a problem that we ignore at our own peril.
132.	Because there is such great diversity in the economies of the debtor countries, it is necessary that the responses be patiently and carefully crafted to meet each situation. Although the determined cooperation of all the parties concerned has averted collapse so far, we are still considerable time and effort away from a fundamental solution. Looking at the essential elements of the problem from a long term perspective, I believe we need efforts by the debtor countries to adjust their economic structures for expanded exports and cooperative efforts by the creditor countries to maintain the smooth flow of capital to the debtor countries and to improve further their access to the markets of the industrialized countries.
133.	I am, however, encouraged by recent developments. With the Latin American countries emphasizing the urgent need for a solution at this year's meetings of the debtor countries—such as those held at Quito in January and Cartagena in June—the industrialized countries are encouraging multiyear rescheduling for the private sector debts of countries making effective efforts to help themselves. There is a spirit of cooperation in the air, and Mexico— which I visited just before coming to New York— recently reached a rescheduling agreement that is a model of its kind.
134.	Trade expansion is indispensable to any long term solution of the debt problem and to the sustained development of the world economy. To achieve this we must roll back protectionism and preserve and strengthen the free trade system. Realizing that, Japan proposed the beginning of preparations for a new round of multilateral trade negotiations last November, and we have been working hard ever since to advance that idea.
135.	At the London Economic Summit of industrialized countries, held last June, it was agreed to consult partners in the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade with a view to deciding at an early date on a new round of negotiations. Japan intends to continue its efforts to commence a new round in which as broad a range of countries as possible— both industrialized and developing—will participate.
136.	Because it views official development assistance as an important international responsibility, Japan has been endeavouring, despite its tight fiscal situation, to expand its official development assistance in line with the medium-term target of doubling the total amount of that assistance in five years. Our official development assistance figure for 1983 represented a 24.4 per cent increase over the figure for the previous year.
137.	Japan attaches importance to the development of human resources and has made special efforts in the field of technical cooperation with the developing countries. I believe that technical cooperation is in itself a creative process; it promotes technological progress to meet the actual needs of each developing country in harmony with its traditional way of life, and we intend to continue such technical cooperation. "Human resources development" has long been an important element in Japan's economic and technical cooperation with the ASEAN countries. When the problems of cooperation in the Pacific region were discussed at ASEAN's ministerial meeting in July with the dialogue partners, I emphasized the need for "human resources development", and I am delighted that this was then accepted and thereafter became a major theme for broad regional cooperation in the Pacific.
138.	If we are to achieve a much needed breakthrough in the North South problem and, in particular, if we are to promote further economic and technical cooperation between North and South, I believe that, in addition to the efforts for the expansion of development assistance and "human resources development", we need what I would call a concerted effort by both North and South based on a new perspective. For example, closer and more substantive dialogue between donor and recipient countries, if it were conducted in a concerted manner by both sides, would greatly enhance effectiveness and efficiency in economic cooperation. At the same time, positive use should be made of the dynamism of the private sector in tackling the difficult problems of development. In technology, as in capital cooperation, efforts to establish a more organic link between government level cooperation and private sector cooperation are certainly of increasing importance to both North and South.
139.	We all stand today at an important juncture from which, availing ourselves of the wisdom of both North and South, we can embark upon creative efforts based on a new perspective, for the solution of the North South problem.
140.	Where are we to derive the energy needed to create the new world of the twenty-first century? Obviously, it must come from within ourselves. Of all the forms of life on this earth, only man has the power to shape his own destiny. We must draw upon this power today. When one realizes how the mutual stimulation of differing cultures has sparked new possibilities among peoples, propelling history through the ages, it should be clear that, in drawing together all countries, large and small, to argue their cases on an equal basis, the United Nations is indeed a reactor generating new historical forces. Advances in communications and transportation technologies are bringing people in all parts of the world ever closer together, and contacts among different cultures are on the increase. I believe that this wealth of contacts contributes importantly to realizing the potential of all peoples.
141.	The world is admittedly faced with great difficulties. It is for us to overcome those difficulties and go on to a new era. Drawing upon the imagination and vitality of all of our peoples, we must harness the forces of human creativity to generate a new era of hope for all mankind.


First of all, I should like to congratulate you, Sir, on your election to the presidency of the thirty-ninth session of the General Assembly. Your well-known qualities as an eminent statesman of Africa and your dedication as President of the United Nations Council for Namibia to its independence and the eradication of the abhorrent practice of apartheid will contribute to the success of our work. I also wish to express our thanks to the outgoing President, Mr. Jorge Illueca, of Panama.
133.	It gives me particular pleasure to reiterate on behalf of my Government our full confidence in the Secretary-General. His exceptional leadership, impartiality, foresight and dedication are a source of admiration and respect all over the world.
134.	I also wish to extend a warm welcome to Brunei Darussalam, as the newest Member of the United Nations.
135.	The agenda of this session contains important items which reflect not only the concerns but also the expectations of the international community. My Government pledges its full support for every effort aimed at improving the international climate and promoting the search for the peaceful settlement of existing problems.
136.	The principles of Turkish foreign policy are strongly opposed to oppression, colonialism and racial discrimination. Consequently, we remain deeply concerned about the intolerable and dangerous situation in southern Africa.
137.	In Namibia, we are still confronted with one of the last, but most important, vestiges of colonialism, illegal occupation and repression. The process of independence for Namibia is at present passing through a critical stage. Further delay in implementing Security Council resolution 435 (1978) will aggravate the political situation and the troubles in and around Namibia. In this regard, we commend the valuable and untiring efforts of the Secretary- General to make possible the full implementation of the United Nations plan for the independence of Namibia. As a founding member of the United Nations Council for Namibia, Turkey resolutely supports the legitimate and just struggle of the people of Namibia for their independence, under the leadership of SWAPO.
138.	Turkey also strongly condemns the policy of apartheid pursued in South Africa, a policy which constitutes the most abominable form of racial discrimination, and it appeals to all Member States to unify their efforts against this inhuman practice.
139.	I should also like to mention a positive development in Africa. My Government welcomes the recent agreement on military disengagement in Chad and hopes for its early implementation.
140.	The situation in the Middle East continues to cause grave concern. Tension and conflict persist, and unfortunately there is still not much room for optimism about a negotiated settlement. The plight of the Arab Palestinian people continues unabated; while Lebanon is still searching for the opportunity to reassert its sovereignty over its territory and is trying further to pursue the process of national reconciliation and reconstruction.
141.	Turkey is naturally concerned about the tense situation in the region. We see Turkey's role as one of stability, peaceful change and progress. Its historical and cultural heritage, its geographic location and the Western values it has adopted put it in a unique position to play this role.
142.	The question of Palestine occupies centre stage in the Middle East political arena and is today, as it has been for more than three decades, among the high-priority items on the agenda of the United Nations. The Organization, through numerous resolutions, has firmly supported the right of self-determination of Arab Palestinians and the creation of an independent Palestinian State, without which no settlement can be just and enduring. It is therefore important that Israel should withdraw from all the Arab territories occupied since 1967, including Jerusalem. Israel should comply with its obligations under the relevant international conventions as the occupying Power and respect the human rights of the people in the occupied territories. Israel must not be allowed further to modify the demographic character and institutional structure of these territories. To put it simply, unless their homeland remains intact, Arab Palestinians will not have the territory upon which to establish their State.
143.	The Government of Turkey is of the view that the opportunities created by the Fez plan contained in the Final Declaration of the Twelfth Arab Summit Conference, adopted on 9 September 1982, and by the International Conference on the Question of Palestine, held at Geneva from 29 August to 7 September 1983, should now be judiciously pursued. In this connection, we support the convening of an international peace conference on the Middle East, as endorsed by the General Assembly in resolution 38/58 C. There is considerable support for such a conference. We hope that the Secretary-General can make progress in assisting its preparation through appropriate initiatives. Needless to say, the PLO must participate in the conference on an equal footing with the other parties.
144.	In the context of the grave problems of the Middle East region, we wish to underline once again our deep concern over the precarious situation in Lebanon. Israel has repeatedly been called upon to put an end to its violations of the human rights of the population in southern Lebanon. Israel must promptly withdraw from Lebanon as a first and essential step in the process of Lebanese reconciliation and rehabilitation. We are encouraged by the recent moves for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon. The Lebanese people have already endured untold suffering and losses. They should be left alone, free from foreign interference. A united, sovereign and territorially integral Lebanon is indispensable for the overall stability of the region. We are all under an obligation to help the Lebanese people achieve that goal.
145.	The war between Iran and Iraq is yet another major source of tension and danger in the region. Turkey, a neighbour of the two countries, with equally close ties with both, is very much distressed by the loss of human lives and material devastation inflicted by the war. The potential in the conflict for unpredictable developments remains high, and there is always the danger of escalation. We again call on both sides to end the war. Turkey is prepared to assist and to contribute to a settlement under conditions mutually acceptable to Iraq and Iran. We also support other initiatives that enjoy the confidence of the two parties, and, in particular, express our appreciation to the Secretary-General for his efforts.
146.	We continue to be deeply concerned about the situation in Afghanistan. The determination of the Afghan people to live in freedom is praiseworthy. We applaud the efforts of the Secretary-General to obtain a negotiated political settlement. The Afghan people must be able to exercise its right to self-determination, and the Afghan refugees must be allowed to return to their country in safety. Such a settlement should restore Afghanistan's independence and non- aligned status by ensuring the withdrawal of foreign military forces. We also express our appreciation to the Government of Pakistan, which, despite its limited means, provides shelter and humanitarian assistance to the Afghan refugees, and our satisfaction over its positive and co-operative approach to a peaceful settlement.
147.	The situation in Kampuchea is another matter which deserves the constant attention of the international community. An early political settlement involving the withdrawal of all foreign troops from that country, the cessation of all foreign influence in the internal affairs of Kampuchea and the restoration of independence based on the right of self-determination, is imperative. Turkey highly appreciates the efforts of the members of the Association of South- East Asian Nations towards a peaceful solution of this important problem, which endangers peace and stability in the region.
148.	I should also like to touch upon the situation in the Korean peninsula, which remains unchanged. We are convinced of the need for a speedy resumption of the dialogue between the parties concerned in order to settle the Korean Question by peaceful means. In this context, we greatly value the initiatives of the Government of the Republic of Korea designed to bring about a dialogue. There is also an important role to be played by the United Nations, which has long been directly involved in the issue. In this connection, we are convinced that a better atmosphere of peace, reconciliation and understanding would be fostered by admitting the parties directly concerned to this universal body.
149.	In spite of the most welcome signs of the development of the democratic process in Latin America, the present situation in Central America remains tense. The aggravation of the political atmosphere and the acute economic and social difficulties in the region have a negative impact on international relations. In this respect, we fully support the efforts of the Contadora Group in the search for a peaceful, negotiated solution to the conflicts in the region.
150.	We believe that law and order must be established and that the aspirations of these nations to live and develop under democratic pluralistic regimes respectful of basic human rights must be fulfilled.
151.	We should like to commend the Secretary- General for his recent efforts concerning Cyprus. My government is pleased with the reactivation of the search for a negotiated settlement. We consider the high-level proximity talks which began on 10 September within the framework defined at Vienna to be a constructive step forward. We sincerely hope that the current initiative of the Secretary-General will lead to the resumption of the direct negotiating process between the Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot sides on the existing, mutually agreed basis, we are encouraged by the information from the Secretary-General that in their first round the proximity talks have been thorough, serious, business-like and conducted in a constructive spirit. I take this opportunity to reiterate our gratitude to the Secretary-General for his untiring and skilful efforts to bring about a lasting solution to the Cyprus question.
152.	Today there is an absolute need for careful but imaginative action to exploit the opportunity that has been created for a compromise in Cyprus with the introduction by the Secretary-General, at Vienna, of the "working points". Whatever reasons may still divide the two communities, there is no excuse for delaying the resumption of the direct negotiating process. Both sides stand to gain much more from negotiations than from rhetorical exchanges and propaganda activities. The time has come for the two Cypriot sides to make renewed efforts in their challenging task of reshaping their relations as equal partners in a bi-communal, bi-zonal, federal framework. We welcome the fact that the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, for its part, has declared its readiness to make every effort to this end. Its positive approach to the Secretary-General's initiative, both in procedure and in substance, has been a step in the right direction. However, this constructive attitude of the Turkish Cypriot side has yet to be reciprocated. This, in our view, is the key to progress.
153.	My Government will continue to encourage the negotiating process and lend its support to the Secretary-General's mission of good offices entrusted to him by the Security Council in paragraph 6 of its resolution 367 (1975) of 12 March 1975.
154.	International terrorism threatens mankind and the normal conduct of international relations. Its well-established links with international arms and drug smuggling indicate the extent of this threat. Therefore, it is not enough to take appropriate measures individually at the national level, which Turkey has successfully done, to eliminate this problem. It is also necessary for States to assume international obligations to prevent the use of their territory for acts of terrorism against other States. The perpetrators of such crimes should not be allowed to find shelter in other countries. In this regard, Turkey strongly believes that terrorism in all its forms can only be eliminated through close and effective international co-operation.
155.	Consequently, as an important aspect of this global problem, we find the item in the agenda of the current session of the General Assembly entitled "Consideration of effective measures to enhance the protection, security and safety of diplomatic and consular missions and representatives" most appropriate for the affirmation of this commitment.
156.	Turkey notes with satisfaction the resolutions adopted by the United Nations on the security and safety of diplomatic and consular missions and representatives, who have increasingly been subjected to terrorist attacks, and the decision taken to alert world opinion to the Organization's important role and activities in this area. We look forward to the implementation and further elaboration of these resolutions and decisions.
157.	The reversal of the recessionary trend in the world economy since the end of 1982, the resumption of growth in the industrial countries, the further slowing of inflation in the developed market economies and a notable reduction in the current account deficit of the non-oil-producing developing countries compared with the preceding several years have been favourable developments for the recovery of the world economy in 1984.
158.	Despite these significant positive signs, difficult economic problems faced by the developing countries remain unsolved. Developing countries, and especially the least developed one, are unable to resume their growth process, which has been severely affected by the prolonged global recession. Already weakened by serious structural problems, such as rapid population growth, unemployment, high rates of inflation, declining per capita income and low levels of production and exports, developing countries are faced with decreasing demand in the developed world, weak terms of trade for their primary commodities, restricted access to world markets, and a heavy burden of external debts and high interest rates. This trend has forced many developing countries to adopt restrictive policies and austerity programmes, reducing budget deficits, slowing the growth of the money supply, restraining wage increases and scaling back subsidies to combat inflation. But the continued decrease of their net total savings and of their imports hampers their growth. Sustained growth of the world economy is the only viable long-term solution for most of the current problems.
159.	It is difficult for any country, whether rich or poor, large or small, to isolate itself from the rest of the world. It is against this background that intensified co-operative efforts among nations and institutions, both public and private, are needed to overcome our common problems. We must seek short- and long-term measures to reduce protectionist barriers and expand international trade, support and strengthen the multilateral mechanisms for the transfer of financial and technical assistance to developing countries and give due consideration to enhancing the quality and level of their human and natural resources.
160.	In this connection, we highly appreciate the London Economic Declaration, issued at the London Economic Summit, held from 7 to 9 June 1984, and the intention of the seven major industrialized countries to spread the benefits of the world recovery widely to developing countries, especially to the least developed ones, which stand to gain more from a sustained growth of world economy.
161.	Turkey, on the basis of mutual benefit, participates actively in enhancing economic relations with developing countries. We are convinced that tangible and realistic results of the economic co-operation among the developing countries, in particular on a regional level, can establish reliable bases for a genuine and comprehensive dialogue on a much larger scale. Likewise, Turkey supports all constructive and practical proposals initiated by developing countries for adjusting similar structural difficulties with a view to providing effective solutions.
162.	Finally, a certain convergence of views between the North and the South has emerged in a number of international forums. What is needed now is the political will to translate ideas into action. Such political will is especially needed to resolve the debt problems of the developing countries, which constitute a tangible major threat to the stability of international economic relations.
163.	Many speakers here have urged global initiatives rather than interim measures to avert a collapse of the international financial system and to buy time for the developing countries.
164.	Turkey believes that the principal responsibility for development lies first with the developing countries themselves. They must realize that sound economic policies are a sine qua non for their steady and healthy progress in this field. Turkey is one county which has had experience in successfully adjusting its economy during the global recession and in servicing its debt payments. It has expanded its exports, benefiting also from the possibilities of South-South trade, and it has adopted policies aimed at restoring the balance of the main economic aggregates. Turkey's success in implementing these policies can well be taken as a good example.
165.	Turkey's efforts, like those of other developing countries, to continue its expansion of exports are hampered by the protectionist trends in the developed countries. These trends, we believe, could be reversed not only through the early resumption of new comprehensive, multilateral trade negotiations—which should cover all items, such as agricultural commodities, manufactured goods and services—but also through the implementation of the already existing commitments.
166.	We believe that adopting an objective approach in all economic fields would pave the way for a comprehensive and constructive exchange of views on world economic issues. We hope, in this context, that a realistic consensus will emerge for the launching of global negotiations within the framework of the United Nations.
167.	One of the overriding concerns of mankind is arms control and disarmament efforts. The arms race drains the scarce resources of nations and brings about instability and insecurity in international relations. The developing countries especially are in need of these resources for their economic and social development, which can only be accomplished in a safer and more stable international environment.
168.	Turkey's objective is and remains to have an adequate defence capability, as well as balanced and verifiable arms control and arms reduction steps, in conjunction with a policy of dialogue and confidence-building.
169.	We are of the opinion that a commitment to rebuilding confidence among States is the most important prerequisite for the success of disarmament initiatives. The successful conclusion of the Madrid follow-up meeting of the Conference on Security and Co-operation in Europe and the convening at Stockholm of the Conference on Confidence' and Security-building Measures and Disarmament in Europe have yet to bring about the desired results.
170.	We welcome the recent proposals made by President Reagan in his speech from this rostrum and also the recent contacts between the United States and the Soviet Union as a sign of hope for the future. The super-Powers bear a special responsibility in the field of arms control. They should resume, as early as possible, negotiations on nuclear armaments with a view to paving the way to progress in all other related areas. It is our earnest wish that this session of the General Assembly will mark the beginning of a turning-point in East-West relations, as well as of a better understanding between North and South.