Sanctions ‘lead to global war’
New Zealand should adopt a policy of positive neutrality in response to President Reagan’s request for sanctions against Libya, said Mr Larry Ross, the secretary of the Nuclear Free Zone Committee. “Mr Lange should follow the advice of the people and apply Labour Conference Remit 151 to the crisis between the United States and Libya.” The remit calls for New Zealand to adopt a foreign policy of positive neutrality, emphasising any potential mediating opportunities in international disputes, said Mr Ross. “As a long-term United States ally and friend, with a new reputation as independent and nuclear-free, and well respected in the Arab world, New Zealand could be trusted by all sides as a neutral
Mr Ross saiid it would be counter-productive diplomatically and economically for New Zealand to apply sanctions or agree to military action against any country in the Middle East. “The Middle East is an atomic powder keg. The complex of injustices and disputes can spawn increasing acts of terrorism and war. “Resorting to war against Libya, Israel, or any other State, can quickly bring in others, resulting in terrorism and war within the heartlands of the involved States. The next steps would be regional use of nuclear weapons followed by escalation to global war.” Mr Ross said that under positive neutrality, New Zealand could work to help reduce tensions and promote peace.
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Press, 14 January 1986, Page 5
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230Sanctions ‘lead to global war’ Press, 14 January 1986, Page 5
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