weapons and their gradual elimination. These goals can be achieved much more rapidly through ongoing negotiations if there is the political determination to JSM;MO A/C.l/40/PV.ll 59 (Mr. Franceschi, Italy) pursue them seriously. At the same time, it is difficult to deny the existence of a linkage between nuclear testing and the structure of the forces ensuring the existing balance on which international peace and security are based. Progress towards a comprehensive test-ban treaty is therefore bound to be a complex endeavour which will very much run parallel to progress in nuclear arms reduction. While efforts in this direction must be continued and even intensified, a gradual approach based on consideration of this issue in its proper perspective and in all its aspects, including verification, seems to us to be the most realistic and constructive one. In our view, the work of the group of seismic experts established by the Conference on Disarmament has been very relevant to such a gradual approach, and we believe that the group should continue its activity under an updated mandate. Moreover, it seems logical to pay due attention to the problem of observance of existing constraints on testing. The frequency of complaints by both parties to the threshold Treaty of 1974 on their respective compliance with ~eir obligations under the Treaty itself are clear evidence of the inadequacy of its verification system and of the need for urgent bilateral negotiations to complement it with appropriate verificiations measures, including on-site inspections. The prevention of horizontal proliferation of nuclear weapons, however important, should not divert attention from the increasingly urgent need to put a cap on the nuclear arms race and to reverse it. It is maybe a good omen that this fortieth anniversary of our Organization coincides with the resumption of bilateral 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing international relations, disarmament, and nuclear non-proliferation, which are all related to global security and politics. It mentions specific treaties, conferences, and organizations, suggesting a focus on international diplomacy and agreements. The text also touches on verification systems and on-site inspections, which are technical aspects of disarmament and non-proliferation.

**Category**
International relations, Science and technology