97
15 August 1962
STATEMENT BY ACTING SECRETARY-GENERAL U THANT
AT CEREMONY OF SIGNING OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN
REPUBLIC OF INDONESIA AND KINGDOM OF
NETHERLANDS
On this eventful occasion, when the Agreement between the Republic of Indo nesia and the Kingdom of the Netherlands in regard to the future of West New Guinea (West Irian) is about to be signed, I would like first, of all to congratulate the two governments on their willingness to settle this question by peaceful negotiations and also on their spirit of “give and take" which has made possible the Conclusion of this Agreement.
I am sure I am right in saying that. as a result, there will be not only an casing of tension in the area. but also an increased feeling of mutual trust and confidence between the two governments. It, is a good augury that, with the signing of this Agreement. diplomatic relations are to be resumed between the two countries, and I am sure that their future relations "will be marked by the friendliness, understanding and cordiality that have prevailed during these negotiations.
I would also like to take this opportunity to place oil record, publicly my gratitude to Ambassador Ellswort Bunker who has acted on my, behalf during the preliminarly negotiations between the two governments and whose patience. integrity, and diplomatic skill have contributed so greatly to the successful conclusion of this Agreement.
There are several unique features about this Agreement. One is that, if the General Assembly endorses it, the United Nations would have temporary executive authority (established by and under the jurisdiction of the Secretary-General) over a vast territory for the firs, time in its history. Another is that the entire expenses to be incurrej under the terms of this Agreement are to be shared by the two governments and will not impose a burden on any of the other member governments. Considerable executive responsibilities are placed on the Secretary-General and Secretariat of the United Nations, some of which have necessarily, to be undertaken, in the interests of peace and security in anticipation of the approval of the General Assembly. It will be my endeavor and that of my colleagues to fulfil these tasks to the best of our capacity.
If these reponsibilities are to be discharged to the satisfaction of all concerned, I shall need the willing cooperation of both governments, especially, during the period of transition. I hope hlat my task will be facilitated by the scrupulous adherence on the part of both goverment, to the letter and spirit of this Agreement. without it my task would become immensely, difficult. and I earnestly appeal to both governments to make their cooperation available to me in the fullest measure.
Before closing, I would like to congratulate once again the representatives of the two governments on the imminent signature of this historic agreement which, in line with the principles of the Charter, has settled peacefully a long standing problem, with benefit to all concerned.
