Fellow Delegates,

I should like to say a few words about the progress of the War. It is moving inexorably to its appointed end­the destruction of the Axis Powers. Germany seems to be at the last gasp, and it is possible that the War in Europe may be over this year. Japan's downfall may not take so long, after the conclusion of the War in the West., as was thought at one time.

While concentrating on bringing the War to a successful conclusion as quickly as possible, it is becoming more and more necessary to consider and make adequate provision for the many serious post-war problems that are bound to arise. The question of post-war reconstruction is being dealt with, but progress seems to be slow. This problem needs much more urgent and effective attention.

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