Q.
What is your view of the proposed setting up of a special fund to finance "buffer stocks" of raw materials?
A.
I think this is another very positive and useful initiative. It is true that UNCTAD is already considering the matter within the U.N. framework. However, there is no reason why non-aligned and developing countries should not also use resources available among themselves for setting up such a special Fund.
Forerunner of Colombo Summit
Q.
Do you think that the ministerial meeting in Lima will draw the agenda for the non-aligned summit meeting in Colombo in 1976 ?
A.
The Lima Conference will undoubtedly be a forerunner to the fifth summit, to be held in Colombo next year. The conclusions of the Lima Conference will, therefore, be of special relevance. The Foreign Ministers Meeting in Lima can be expected to lay down the broad guidelines along which further preparatory work for the Colombo summit should proceed. Our past practice has been to entrust this responsibility to a preparatory body. I presume we will follow the same course this time also.
Q.
What role should the non-aligned countries play in the world between now and the Colombo Summit? And how do you see their future role?
A.
These are momentous times through which the world is passing. Therefore, the non-aligned countries must continues to keep a careful watch over developments. In the context of efforts that are being made to divide or create disharmony among non-aligned countries, we should remain alert and do everything possible to maintain our solidarity. In this connection, what I said earlier about developing mutual co-operation among ourselves in a concrete manner is particularly necessary and urgent. I am sure, we will not only be able to stand together but also through our combined efforts give a constructive shape to the course of world events.
Q.
One last question. What is your assessment of the Indo-Yugoslav relations and of the co-operation of the two countries in the family of the non-aligned countries?
A.
India and Yugoslavia are founder-members of non-alignment. This has been one of the many enduring and rewarding elements of our bilateral relations also. The leadership which President Tito has been giving to our movement has always been inspiring. I recall with special pleasure his discussions with me when I had the privilege of meeting him during my visit to your country in January this year. I am sure that our two countries will continue to work together within the family of the non-aligned countries for the realisation of our common objectives in the same spirit of close and friendly understanding that has characterised our relations in the past.
