ATTITUDE TO WESTERN PACT

Press, Volume LXXXIV, Issue 25447, 19 March 1948, Page 7

ATTITUDE TO WESTERN PACT

“The action of five nations signing m Brussels to-day a 50-year agreement for economic co-operation and common defence against aggression has great significance; for this agreement was not imposed’by the decree of a more powerful neighbour. It was the free choice of independent governments representing the will of their ■people. This is a notable step in the direction of unity in Europe for the Protection and preservation of its civilisation. ‘‘l am confident the United States Jul by appropriate means extend to the free nations the support which the atuation requires. I am sure the determination of Europe's free countries to protect themselves will be matched oy equal determination on our part to help them to do so. I believe we have reached a point at which the position of the United elates should be made unmistakably

clear. The principles and purposes expressed by the United Nations Charter continue to represent our hope for the eventual establishment of the rule of law in mternational affairs. We cannot, however, close our eyes to the harsh fact that through obstruction and even defiance on the part of one nation this great dream has not yet become a full reality. “It is necessary, therefore, that we take additional measures to supplement the work of the United Nations arid to support its aims. There are times in history when it is far wiser to act than hesitate.

“There is some risk involved in action—there always is—but there is far more risk in failure to act. If we act wisely now, we shall strengthen powerful forces for freedom, justice, and peace, which are represented by the united Nations and the world’s free nations.