Yet we still live in a troubled and
perilous world. There is no longer a single threat. There are many. They
differ in intensity and in danger. They require different attitudes and
different answers.
With the Soviet Union we seek peaceful understandings that can lessen the
danger to freedom.
Last fall I asked the American people to choose that course. I will carry
forward their command.
If we are to live together in peace, we must come to know each other
better.
I am sure that the American people would welcome a chance to listen to the
Soviet leaders on our television--as I would like the Soviet people to hear
our leaders on theirs.
I hope the new Soviet leaders can visit America so they can learn about our
country at firsthand.
In Eastern Europe restless nations are slowly beginning to assert their
identity. Your Government, assisted by the leaders in American labor and
business, is now exploring ways to increase peaceful trade with these
countries and with the Soviet Union. I will report our conclusions to the
Congress.
In Asia, communism wears a more aggressive face. We see that in Viet-Nam.
Why are we there?
We are there, first, because a friendly nation has asked us for help
against the Communist aggression. Ten years ago our President pledged our
help. Three Presidents have supported that pledge. We will not break it
now.
Second, our own security is tied to the peace of Asia. Twice in one
generation we have had to fight against aggression in the Far East. To
ignore aggression now would only increase the danger of a much larger war.
Our goal is peace in southeast Asia. That will come only when aggressors
leave their neighbors in peace.
What is at stake is the cause of freedom and in that cause America will
never be found wanting.