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9 Andrei Gromyko (Union of Soviet Socialist Republics): This moment is truly historical. This is the first meeting of the organ whose task is to ensure lasting peace among nations. I wish, in the name of the Soviet delegation, to express the hope that the Security Council will fulfil the great historic task which has been given to it by the Charter of the United Nations.

Ernest Bevin (United Kingdom): I am naturally glad that the representative of a British Dominion has been called upon to take the chair at the first meeting of the Security Council, and especially a Dominion whose very existence was threatened by an attack by the Japanese and who, for a considerable time, faced the dangers of invasion and destruction.

We are met today to inaugurate the Security Council. Like the other representatives who have spoken, I can only hope that it will be successful in its work, firm in its decisions, just and considerate in dealing with all the cases that will come before us, and always actuated by the highest motives to secure peace among all peoples.

Vincent Auriol (France) (translated from French): The French Government joins in the tributes which have been paid to the President, and associates itself with the presidential address and with the words which have greeted the opening meeting of the Security Council. Seventy-five years ago, almost to the day, Bismarck laid the foundations of the German Empire. It is fitting to recall the collapse of that mighty empire at this moment when we are ushering in an epoch of law among peoples and of justice among nations.

The Security Council’s task is a heavy one, but it will be sustained by our hope, which is shared by the people, and by our remembrance of the sufferings of all those who fought and died that the rule of law might prevail. Faithful to her tradition, France will strive with all means at her disposal for the accomplishment of the task set before us.

Abdel Hamid Badawi (Egypt) (translated from French): The significance of this event has already been sufficiently stressed. The functions and responsibilities of the Security Council have been expounded in words which are as eloquent as they are timely, and I have nothing to add to these pronouncements, except to offer my congratulations to the President. His election is a tribute to his country, which fought so valiantly against the enemy, and it recalls the fine contribution of Dr. Evatt to the cause of liberty and international law.

Egypt is proud of her membership of the Security Council. She has full faith in the Council's future, knowing the spirit which animates it. The Council is the safeguard of lasting peace, as the future will prove.

Cyro de Freitas Valle (Brazil): After listening to so many eloquent speeches today, you will wish to be brief, Mr. President. I shall