sanctions against that country. We did this with great regret, because Canada greatly values its friendly relations with Argentina, More important, however. we believe that respect for the rule of law throughout the world, as embodied in the Charter, is fundamental in today’s society and must take precedence. 213. The tragic consequences of the past several days have been the inevitable result. This terrible reality has now begun to register, and public opinion in all our countries is demanding an end to violence and bloodshed and the needless loss of life and destruc- tion of property, It must now be more clear than ever before that a negotiated solution to the problem is the only civilized course of action. Council resolution 502 (1982), calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities, coupled with an immediate withdrawal from the islands of all Argentine forces, provides the basis for seeking a diplomatic settlement. 214. Canada has not made any judgement on the substance of this question, which is the conflicting claims to the sovereignty of the islands. Canada has always maintained that this a matter to be settled by negotiation between the parties directly concerned, due regard being paid to the wishes of the islanders themselves. How tragic it is that great suffering must be endured, families separated, blood spilled and lives lost because of a dispute whose settlement should and could still be reached by peaceful means. 215. My Government has been greatly heartened by the courageous efforts over the past days of the Secretary-General, who, taking resolution 502 (1982) as the basis of his work, attempted persistently to llllllll I9 narrow further the differences separating the two sides. We applaud his initiative. We admire his skill and that of his staff, and we sorrow at his set-back. 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a statement by a government official, likely the Prime Minister of Canada, addressing the situation in the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) and the conflict between Argentina and the United Kingdom. The text focuses on the international relations and diplomacy surrounding the conflict, emphasizing the importance of respecting the rule of law and finding a negotiated solution. There is no mention of economic development, natural resources, or other specific sectors.

**Category**
International trade, Humanitarian aid and relief