President Gamal Abdel Nasser’s Speech at the Closing Session of the Bandung Conference, 1955

Our Conference is drawing to a close after eight days of fruitful and cordial deliberations. These eight days were preceded by extensive preparations and efforts undertaken by the Joint Secretariat of the Conference, which have proven to be of great benefit indeed.

There is no doubt that our Conference has achieved great success, for peace and international cooperation will greatly benefit from the solidarity and harmony reflected in its resolutions. The cause of peace will also draw tremendous inspiration from the deep concern and full support expressed by all Asian and African countries regarding the issues of human rights and the right to self-determination.

Much of the credit for the success of this Conference goes to the personal efforts of Mr. Ali Sastroamidjojo, the President of the Conference, and to his experience and patience. Likewise, the spirit of all the delegations—characterized by patience and a genuine desire for reconciliation—has greatly contributed to ensuring that our deliberations took a constructive path, even during times when disagreement seemed inevitable.

I would like to express my gratitude to the Indonesian government for its generous hospitality, and to the sponsoring countries for taking the first step towards convening this important Conference.