Story: Asian conflicts

Peter Fraser signs the UN Charter, 1945

Peter Fraser signs the UN Charter, 1945

New Zealand Prime Minister Peter Fraser signs the United Nations Charter at San Francisco on 26 June 1945. New Zealand was a founding member and strong supporter of the UN. When the UN called for military intervention in Korea, New Zealand responded immediately – a move supported by both the National government and Labour opposition, along with the majority of the public. The fact that Britain, still seen as the 'mother country', committed forces to Korea was a strong incentive for New Zealand involvement. It was also hoped that New Zealand's willingness to take a stand in the fight against communism would encourage the United States to commit itself to a closer defence relationship.

Using this item

Alexander Turnbull Library, War History Collection (DA-01514)
Reference: PAColl-5547-071

Permission of the Alexander Turnbull Library, National Library of New Zealand, Te Puna Mātauranga o Aotearoa, must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

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How to cite this page:

Ian McGibbon, 'Asian conflicts - Korean War', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/34518/peter-fraser-signs-the-un-charter-1945 (accessed 19 March 2024)

Story by Ian McGibbon, published 20 Jun 2012, updated 1 Feb 2016