21.
Reaffirmation of solidarity, unity and goals
We are beset with problems of grave dimensions. Our efforts to build a just international order based on the sovereign and democratic equality of all States and a balanced and co-operative relationship between the developed and the developing countries, are encountering many obstacles. Attempts have been made by some States to disrupt the solidarity of the non-aligned countries. It is therefore of paramount importance for us to meet together to review recent developments and reaffirm our solidarity, our principles and our goals.
The detente between East and West, of which our Heads of State and Government had taken note with satisfaction at Algiers in 1973, has continued, despite several stresses and strains. To the extent that detente reduces the danger of a world war, induces relaxation of tensions and helps to normalise relations between states, it should be welcomed and further consolidated, and also extended to all regions of the world.
Fragile Peace and Security
The structure of world peace and security however remains fragile, especially in Asia where tensions and conflicts persist. In west Asia, as we call it, or in the Middle East, the situation continues to cause grave concern.
The comprehensive consideration of the question of Palestine in the last U.N. General Assembly session in which the PLO participated enabled the adoption of a resolution reaffirming the inalienable rights of the people of Palestine. This was a significant landmark in the long struggle to secure the vindication of Palestinian rights, especially their right to national independence and their right to participate in the establishment of a just and durable peace in the Middle East. We are gratified that today there is increasing recognition as well as support in the international community for the full restoration of these rights.
I referred earlier to continuing tensions in different areas of the world. In that context I would be failing in my duty if I did not emphasise with particular concern and urgency recent adverse developments in the Indian Ocean area. Despite the repeated calls made by all the Non-aligned Countries since the Lusaka conference reaffirmed by the international community when it adopted the declaration on the Indian Ocean as a zone of peace in 1971, some powers continue to pursue the strategy of balance of power. The decision to develop the Anglo-American base facility in the island of Diego Garcia against the publicly expressed desire of the overwhelming majority of the littoral States of the Indian Ocean is a serious development.