moment, there would be the real danger of losing the connection with political developments outside the CD, the link with reality to which the leader of the delegation of the Soviet Union referred so intriguingly the other day. I will not indulge in any speculation whether we have or have not, so far sufficiently grasped the opportunities which have presented themselves. What is more important is that we remain continuously alert to the possibilities which occur and that we do not shy away from the fact that dealing with reality is an infinitely more difficult and complex task than elaborating and stating theoretical goals. It is our task to grasp the immense potential of the moment. We should not allow ourselves to hang on to ossified ideas and thereby lose opportunities. The fact that the CD has engaged in a realistic effort to streamline our negotiating schedules is warmly welcomed by the Netherlands. A better streamlining of our meeting schedules, which we always advocated, is, however, not an end in itself. What counts is that, as a result of such rescheduling, there will be increased possibility for consultations in our capitals and for going about our business on the basis of fresh instructions and ideas. On another score we should not be loath to take a hard look at our agenda and the programme of work. Why not, pragmatically, decide to discontinue an endless round of unproductive meetings on a certain subject-matter if and when positions persistently remain too far apart for consensus to emerge? If we did so for the Comprehensive Programme of Disarmament, why not do so for other intractable issues? Like other delegations, mine is not convinced that the existence of agenda items 2 and 3 as separate entities is conducive to the 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a diplomatic speech or statement, discussing the challenges and opportunities of international negotiations. It touches on the need for flexibility, pragmatism, and adaptability in the face of complex and potentially intractable issues. The language used is formal and technical, suggesting that the topic is related to international relations or politics. The mention of a "Comprehensive Programme of Disarmament" and "agenda items 2 and 3" also suggests that the topic is related to international security or peacekeeping.

**Category**
International Relations, Politics