Mr. President, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen

the preamble of the United Nations charter opens with the words "we peoples of the United Nations..."

This means that in the beginning, the Founding Fathers of the S. Francisco text were addressing the men and women of the human family as well as the States. This also means that, from the very first lines, the Charter had already laid down the need for democracy.

This means, lastly, that parliamentary representation is an essential instrument to instil the belief in the international public opinion that the United Nations Organization was created first and foremost for each one of us, since none of the objectives of the Organization can be achieved without a direct involvement of the individuals who form the great human family.

The imperative of peace must become instiled first of all in the conscience of the individuals. The imperative of development is by now recognized as a right of man. Democracy, lastly, is our new imperative.

This also calls for a democratization of international relations. In the "Agenda for Peace", I underlined that "democracy at all levels is essential for the establishment of peace and for the advent of a new era of prosperity and justice". I also said that "peace in its widest meaning cannot be secured by the United Nations system or by the governments alone. Nongovernmental organizations, schools, parliamentarians, parts of the business and professional world, media and public must all give their contribution. The Organization will thus be able to take better notice of the concerns and interests of each individual, and those who take a more active part will circulate its initiatives and promote a better understanding of its activity".

I trust that these aspirations of mine will be voiced in your discussions and debates.

Let me assure you that I will be pay close attention. At the beginning of your assembly, therefore, I wish to express the extent to which I understand and share your action.

I believe parties are one of the best instruments, in a democracy, to mobilize the public opinion.

I believe the radical thought is one of the most fruitful ways to confront the future.

Lastly, I believe the transnational approach is one of the best ways, in our world, to achieve a universal dimension.