Smith Warns On Military Action

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30919, 27 November 1965, Page 15

Smith Warns On Military Action

(N.Z.P.A, Reuter—Copyright)

MUNICH, Nov. 26.

Rhodesian Premier Mr Jan Smith warned in an interview published today that “nobody should be so foolish even to try military action” against Rhodesia.

Mr Smith also said that sanctions imposed against his country were far less drastic than expected.

He expressed continued willingness to meet the British Prime Minister, Mr Harold Wilson, again, and said he was ready, too, to have talks

with Africa's independent nationalist leaders. Commenting on future aspects, Mr Smith said he was convinced Rhodesia would eventually be recognised by the rest of the world. He made plain he did not exclude a N.A.T.0.-style alliance with South Africa and possibly with Angola and Mozambique, Portuguese possessions in Africa.

The interview with Mr Smith was published in the newspaper “Sueddeutsche Zeitung.”

Asked to comment on the possibility of joint military action by African States against Rhodesia, Mr Smith said: “I advise everybody—do not be so silly as to even attempt a military action against us.” The interviewer asked: “And if you are attacked in spite of this?” Will Fight Mr Smith: “Then we will fight for our Rhodesian homeland. It is well know here that we in southern Africa have the best military machine in the continent.” The Prime Minister denied that there was any joint defence pact involving Rhodesia.

“As far as the future is concerned, I ask you to consider that all over the world countries that have the same principles or interests join together. That is why there is a N.A.T.O. and a 5.E.A.T.0.”