世界名人英语演讲稿(6)

greece is today without funds to finance the importation of those goods which are essential to bare subsistence. under these circumstances, the people of greece cannot make progress in solving their problems of reconstruction. greece is in desperate need of financial and economic assistance to enable it to resume purchases of food, clothing, fuel, and seeds. these are indispensable for the subsistence of its people and are obtainable only from abroad. greece must have help to import the goods necessary to restore internal order and security, so essential for economic and political recovery. the greek government has also asked for the assistance of experienced american administrators, economists, and technicians to insure that the financial and other aid given to greece shall be used effectively in creating a stable and self-sustaining economy and in improving its public administration.

the very existence of the greek state is today threatened by the terrorist activities of several thousand armed men, led by communists, who defy the government's authority at a number of points, particularly along the northern boundaries. a commission appointed by the united nations security council is at present investigating disturbed conditions in northern greece and alleged border violations along the frontiers between greece on the one hand and albania, bulgaria, and yugoslavia on the other.

meanwhile, the greek government is unable to cope with the situation. the greek army is small and poorly equipped. it needs supplies and equipment if it is to restore authority of the government throughout greek territory. greece must have assistance if it is to become a self-supporting and self-respecting democracy. the united states must supply this assistance. we have already extended to greece certain types of relief and economic aid. but these are inadequate. there is no other country to which democratic greece can turn. no other nation is willing and able to provide the necessary support for a democratic greek government.

the british government, which has been helping greece, can give no further financial or economic aid after march 31st. great britain finds itself under the necessity of reducing or liquidating its commitments in several parts of the world, including greece.

we have considered how the united nations might assist in this crisis. but the situation is an urgent one, requiring immediate action, and the united nations and its related organizations are not in a position to extend help of the kind that is required.

it is important to note that the greek government has asked for our aid in utilizing effectively the financial and other assistance we may give to greece, and in improving its public administration. it is of the utmost importance that we supervise the use of any funds made available to greece in such a manner that each dollar spent will count toward making greece self-supporting, and will help to build an economy in which a healthy democracy can flourish.