Events Emphasise S.E.A.T.O’s Value

Press, Volume CIII, Issue 30541, 9 September 1964, Page 16

Events Emphasise S.E.A.T.O’s Value

(New Zealand Press Association)

WELLINGTON, September 8. Almost open warfare in South Vietnam and the constant undermining of the 1962 Geneva Agreement on Laos brought the fear of armed conflict closer to members of 5.E.A.T.0., the Prime Minister (Mr Holyoake) said today.

In a message to the Secre-tary-General of 5.E.A.T.0., Mr Konthi Suphamongkhon, on the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the signing of the Manila Treaty on September 8. 1954, Mr Holyoake said it' had answered a long-felt need in South-east Asia. “None of the states which that day become members of S.E.A.T.O. has been the victim of open aggression during the last 10 years. “This, in itself, serves to emphasise the value of this regional alliance, based as it is on the principles of the United Nations Charter, and a survey of the present situation in the area shows that

it is as much needed as ever.” The threat of Communist expansion had, during the last year, become very much more acute, said Mr Holyoake.. '.“There is-no doubt that the increased strength which we receive as signatories to a collective defence treaty is not only a matter for great reassurance to us, but a major element in maintaining peace and stability in all our countries. “The Manila Treaty is primarily a military defensive alliance, and troops and aircraft have been sent by member countries, including New Zealand, to the area on more ■than one occasion in answer to the danger from neighbouring territories. “Nevertheless, improvements in education and health are perhaps the best guarantees against aggression and subversion, ’ and S.E.A.T.O. members are fully aware of the' need for this, as their record both inside and outside the organisation shows. “S.E.A.T.O.’s second decade is starting with threatening clouds lowering over the horizon, but I am sure that, strong in the pursuit of freedom, the allies who signed the Manila Treaty can go forward with confidence and resolve.”