Important Step In Political Development Of Two Countries

Northern Advocate, 22 January 1944, Page 3

Important Step In Political Development Of Two Countries

(Received 11.30 a.m.) (Special.) CANBERRA, This Day. “Within the framework of a general system of world security, it is proposed to establish a regional zone of defence based on Australia and New Zealand and stretching from the arc of islands north and north-east of Australia, eastwards to Western Samoa and Cook Islands, which are both under New Zealand jurisdiction.” This statement has been made by Mr. Fraser defining the outpost line of Australia-New Zealand post-war security. Commenting on the published “Australia-New Zealand agreement, 1944,” Mr. Fraser declared that the pact marked an important step in the political development of both Dominions. The conference had been distinguished by the greatest friendli-* ness and identity of views. From the outset it was apparent that 75 per cent, of unanimity existed, and the other 25 per cent, matters calling for discussion were largely those of detail. These points of difference were quickly adjusted in the spirit of understanding and accommodation. Uiaderstandings arrived at were directed particularly towards enhancement of the welfare of Australian and New Zealand peoples, and those of the Pacific Island territories. “It is an agreement which has special value in a sense that it is directed against no other people,” said Mr. Fraser. “On the contrary, other powers are invited to adhere to the principles enunciated. Our agreement contains no secret clauses. Neither is this agreement in any sense a departure from the principles of the British Commonwealth of Nations, membership of which is in the very forefront of Australian-New Zealand policy.” Mr. Fraser stressed the force of joint Government .views on post-war civil aviation as outlined in the pact. Great importance was attached by Australia and New Zealand to questions relating to dependencies, and to the welfare and advancement of the native^ peoples. The two Governments had also made their attitude clear concerning any changes in control or sovereignty of the Pacific Islands. The agreement embodied their firm belief in the principle of trusteeship. In this, their views were in closest harmony with the policy and practice of the United Kingdom Government, with whom they would continue to act in utmost co-operation in the administration of Facific Island territories.

Proposals advanced for the South Seas Regional Commission, Mr. Fraser believed, would mark the beginning of greater co-operation in the administration of colonial territories. In the past, the multiplicity of Government systems had complicated the problems of the Pacific, but those of native welfare so far transcended national boundaries as to call for international cooperation in their solution. Australia and New Zealand were agreed that responsibility for administration of their island territories should remain with existing sovereign Powers, but emphasis was laid on the desirability of international co-opera-tion for the twofold purpose of widening and liberalising administration in the interests of the native peoples, who were as entitled to higher standards of life as peoples of more advanced nations. The machinery set up for consultation; exchange of information and joint planning by Australia and New Zealand, Mr. Fraser was confident would function and develop in the same atmosphere of goodwill as characterised the conference deliberations. In this spirit, Australia and New Zealand would be enabled to play a full part in improving the lot of their own peoples and in preserving the future peace of the world.