Speech by Nikita Khrushchev

Before flying to Los Angeles on a cross-country tour of America, Russian Premier Nikita Khrushchev bids farewell to New York City. He was sent off by Richard C. Patterson Jr., Commissioner of Commerce and Public Events, who made a few opening remarks on behalf of Mayor Robert F. Wagner.

Khrushchev delivers a short speech about his two days in New York. He reflects on meetings with members of the business community but laments not being able to meet the ordinary citizens, especially the working man, among which he feels most comfortable, "like a fish which finds itself in water."

He is optimistic about relations with the U.S. and asserts, "My visit is the beginning of the contacts between our countries, between its leaders. I believe that these contacts will grow and develop to the good of our two countries and of all countries which stand for peace and international cooperation."

Next Robert W. Dowling, of the American National Theatre and Academy, thanks Khrushchev for the tremendous cultural talent that travels to America to perform and invites him to attend the New York Opera on his next visit.

Khrushchev says a few more words of thanks to the members of the United Nations. He expresses intentions for disarmament before entering the airplane at the New York International Idlewild Airport (JFK).

Audio courtesy of the NYC Municipal Archives WNYC Collection

WNYC archives id: 150249
Municipal archives id: LT8643