We shall, therefore, continue to advance the cause of freedom on foreign fronts.

In the Far East, we retain our vital interest in Korea.  We have negotiated with the Republic of Korea a mutual security pact, which develops our security system for the Pacific and which I shall promptly submit to the Senate for its consent to ratification.  We are prepared to meet any renewal of armed aggression in Korea.  We shall maintain indefinitely our bases in Okinawa.  I shall ask the Congress to authorize continued material assistance to hasten the successful conclusion of the struggle in Indo-china.  This assistance will also bring closer the day when the Associated States may enjoy the independence already assured by France.  We shall also continue military and economic aid to the Nationalist Government of China.

In South Asia, profound changes are taking place in free nations which are demonstrating their ability to progress through democratic methods.  They provide an inspiring contrast to the dictatorial methods and backward course of events in Communist China.  In these continuing efforts, the free peoples of South Asia can be assured of the support of the United States.

In the Middle East, where tensions and serious problems exist, we will show sympathetic and impartial friendship.

In Western Europe our policy rests firmly on the North Atlantic Treaty.  It will remain so based as far ahead as we can see.  Within its organization, the building of a united European community, including France and Germany, is vital to a free and self-reliant Europe.  This will be promoted by the European Defense Community which offers assurance of European security.  With the coming of unity to Western Europe, the assistance this Nation can render for the security of Europe and the free world will be multiplied in effectiveness.

In the Western Hemisphere we shall continue to develop harmonious and mutually beneficial cooperation with our neighbors.  Indeed, solid friendship with all our American neighbors is a cornerstone of our entire policy.

In the world as a whole, the United Nations, admittedly still in a state of evolution, means much to the United States.  It has given uniquely valuable services in many places where violence threatened.  It is the only real world forum where we have the opportunity for international presentation and rebuttal.  It is a place where the nations of the world can, if they have the will, take collective action for peace and justice.  It is a place where the guilt can be squarely assigned to those who fail to take all necessary steps to keep the peace.  The United Nations deserves our continued firm support.

FOREIGN ASSISTANCE AND TRADE

In the practical application of our foreign policy, we enter the field of foreign assistance and trade.

Military assistance must be continued.  Technical assistance must be maintained.  Economic assistance can be reduced.  However, our economic programs in Korea and in a few other critical places of the world are especially important, and I shall ask Congress to continue them in the next fiscal year.