PM Transcripts

TRANSFORMATION OF THE SO) VIET IN
Australia has decided to recognise as independent states the
eleven co-founders of the Commonwealth of Independent
States. I know that the recent momentous events in the former Soviet
Union are cause for great celebration for many Australian
community groups as cherished dreams are, at last, realised.
Their excit~ ement and joy is shared by all Australians.
I warmly welcome the new community of nations to the
international stage. The cooperation between the newly
independent states and the peaceful and orderly transition
to the new Commonwealth is to be commended. This harmonious
beginning augurs well for the future of the Commonwealth and
its relations with the international community.
This new revolution would not have taken place without
Mikhail Gorbachev. His role in the history of the late
twentieth century has been decisive and he will undoubtedly
be seen as one of the great figures of modern times.
The people of Eastern Europe were the first to benefit from
Mr Gorbachev's reforms and to experience freedom. Now the
people of the former Soviet Union are also charting their
own social, cultural and political course.
Mr Gorbachev's foresight and courage also greatly
contributed to the world becoming a safer place for
everyone. The arms control agreements negotiated under his
presidency will greatly reduce nuclear arsenals in both east
and west. As a result, a spirit of goodwill and trust now
prevails around the globe and the hands of the doomsday
clock have been put back. I applaud Mr Gorbachev for his
role in this transformation.
I wish the leaders and people of the members of the new
Commonwealth well in the tasks ahead as they welcome this
historic new year.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Senator Evans,
will issue a statement on the arrangements for Australian
recognition.
Canberra
4Q78December 1991