consideration of issues relevant to the prevention of an arms race in outer space, thus responding to the attention with'which this question is followed by the public all over the world. For our part, we think that a debate on this issue and on the programmes undertaken by the soviet Union and the United States should be based on a clear understanding of their purposes. In regard to the United States strategic defence initiative, which is the best known, albeit not necessarily the most advanced of these programmes , we think that a judgement on the project should take into account both its actual configuration and the intentions stated, as well as the commitments made by the United States Government . According to these, the purpose of the research is not to seek ways to extend or transfer a conflict from Earth to space, but to deny the use of space for the purpose of waging a nuclear war on Earth. From this standpoint it is difficult to see how the project would run counter to the basic assumption underlying the deliberations in the General Assembly that space should be used for peaceful purposes. Moreover, we should bear in mind that research into defensive systems is consistent with the Treaty on the Limitation of Anti-Ballistic Missile Systems (ABM) and that a ban on research is difficult to envisage because it would not be verifiable even by the most intrusive standards of verification. BHS/sm A/C.l/40/PV.ll 62 (Mr. Franceschi, Italy) The real problem which arises from the Soviet and the United States research programmes , in our view, is how the potential results of those programmes can be handled without destabilizing implications or, in other words, in a way that would enhance strategic stability. We think that, given the time which lies ahead before 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing a sensitive and complex issue related to international relations and global security. It mentions specific programs and initiatives undertaken by the Soviet Union and the United States, and highlights the need for a clear understanding of their purposes and implications. The text also touches on the theme of strategic stability and the potential consequences of these programs. Given these themes, it seems likely that the text falls within the realm of international relations and global security.

**Category**
Science and technology, International relations