These are all encouraging developments.  Other problems remain, however.

The impact of large-scale migration is affecting many countries in the hemisphere.  The most serious manifestation was the massive, illegal exodus from Cuba last summer.  The Cuban government unilaterally encouraged the disorderly and even deadly migration of 125,000 of its citizens in complete disregard for international law or the immigration laws of its neighbors.  Migrations of this nature clearly require concerted action, and we have asked the Oas to explore means of dealing with similar situations which may occur in the future.

We have a long-standing treaty with Colombia on Quita Sueno, Roncador, and Serrano which remains to be ratified by the Senate.

In Central America, the future of Nicaragua is unclear.  Recent tensions, the restrictions on the press and political activity, an inordinate Cuban presence in the country and the tragic killing by the security forces of a businessman well known for his democratic orientation, cause us considerable concern.  These are not encouraging developments.  But those who seek a free society remain in the contest for their nation’s destiny.  They have asked us to help rebuild their country, and by our assistance, to demonstrate that the democratic nations do not intend to abandon Nicaragua to the Cubans.  As long as those who intend to pursue their pluralistic goals play important roles in Nicaragua, it deserves our continuing support.

In El Salvador, we have supported the efforts of the Junta to change the fundamental basis of an inequitable system and to give a stake in a new nation to those millions of people, who for so long, lived without hope or dignity.  As the government struggles against those who would restore an old tyranny or impose a new one, the United States will continue to stand behind them.

We have increased our aid to the Caribbean, an area vital to our national security, and we should continue to build close relations based on mutual respect and understanding, and common interests.

As the nations of this hemisphere prepare to move further into the 1980’s, I am struck by the depth of underlying commitment that there is to our common principles:  non-intervention, peaceful settlement of disputes, cooperation for development, democracy and defense of basic human rights.  I leave office satisfied that the political, economic, social and organizational basis for further progress with respect to all these principles have been substantially strengthened in the past four years.  I am particularly reassured by the leadership by other nations of the hemisphere in advancing these principles.  The success of our common task of improving the circumstances of all peoples and nations in the hemisphere can only be assured by the sharing of responsibility.  I look forward to a hemisphere that at the end of this decade has proven itself anew as a leader in the promotion of both national and human dignity.