ups and downs, but it has given is direction. In the last elections has confidence of the people has given a new coherence and a new strength to the country. Today, it is true that we are facing tremendous problems, tremendous burdens, but do not think that we are disheartened, do not think that we are discouraged. We are full of courage, full of self-confidence and we know that we have the endurance to bear the burden. however heavy. We welcome help, we want your support and your sympathy, but we are not dependent on anybody’s help or sympathy.
There is another question asked about why we turn to Russians and not to Americans. Quite honestly, we have not turned to anybody. If help is offered, we are not going to say we do not want it. We shall take it from wherever it is offered provided that it is in our national interest. The over-riding consideration is what is in the national interest. Economic progress and growth, the lessening of poverty and disparity, are important. But, there is something which is more important, and that is our freedom. We are taking only what help does not cast any shadow on our freedom. We have always believed in being friends with countries and we shall continue to believe in that and work for it, but, as I said, the over-riding consideration must be what is in our national interest, and we shall always war for that..........
