the position of the Group of 21 on this point. The PRESIDENT (translated from French): I thank the distinguished representative of Cuba, Mrs. Bauta Soles, for the statement she has made and for her kind words addressed to the President. I also see the hand of the distinguished representative of China. You have the floor, Sir. Mr. HOU Zhitong (China) (translated from Chinese): Thank you, Mr. President. Since this is the first time the Chinese delegation has taken the floor in August, allow me first of all to congratulate you, a distinguished member of the Romanian delegation, on your assumption of the Presidency for the month of August. This month is a final and most critical one for the Conference on Disarmament. Our work this year has been intense and arduous. The Chinese delegation is convinced that your experience and ability will surely steer the work of Conference for this month smoothly to its conclusion. Our delegation will co-operate constructively with you in the exercise of your duties. The Chinese delegation is very pleased to welcome the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Italy, Ambassador Bruno Bottai, as well as the Soviet and United States legislators who are attending our meeting today. The Chinese delegation would like to express its appreciation for the interest shown in the work of the Conference. Mr. President, we have just listened to statements by various Groups on the question of the comprehensive programme of disarmament (CPD). The Chinese delegation too would like to make some brief remarks on this matter. As I pointed out in my statement of 31 July, the Chinese delegation, like the Group of 21, is of the view that next year the Conference should re-establish the 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a diplomatic statement from the Chinese delegation to the Conference on Disarmament, discussing the delegation's views on the comprehensive programme of disarmament. The language used is formal and diplomatic, with no mention of economic or social issues, which suggests that the topic is not related to economic development, industry, or other categories.

**Category**
International relations, Science and technology