still long. The Conference on Disarmament is clearly not the guardian of peace in the world but it represents none the less an instrument for its prior establishment and subsequent consolidation. In the search for ways and means more and more adjusted to global and regional realities, Italy believes in the need for such an effort and in the capacity of the Conference on Disarmament to be equal to such a task. We will provide our contribution in an open spirit, eager to consider any other views in order to express above all our concern for disarmament as an essential ingredient for peace. The PRESIDENT (translated from French): I thank the representative of Italy, His Excellency the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bruno Bottai, for the statement he has made and the kind CD/PV.571 9 (The President) words he had for me and for my country. I am sure that members of the Conference have listened with great interest to his statement and have carefully noted the message it contains. I now give the floor to the representative of Belgium, Ambassador Houllez. Mr. HOULLEZ (Belgium) (translated from French); Thank you, Mr. President. At the outset, may I, on behalf of the Belgian delegation, convey to you our congratulations on your assumption of the presidency of the Conference for the month of August. We wish you every success in the performance of your duties, particularly during this decisive period for the Conference. May I also thank your predecessors for the first months of the summer half-session. Ambassadors de Rivero and Sujka, for the dedication with which they performed their duties. Mr. President, I would like to make a statement on behalf of the Western group concerning item 8 (Comprehensive Programme of Disarmament) under our programme of work.
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a diplomatic statement from Italy and Belgium, discussing the Conference on Disarmament and disarmament in general. The language used is formal and focused on international relations, which suggests that the topic is not directly related to economic development, natural resources, or environmental issues. The statements also do not mention specific industries, transportation, or communication methods, which further supports the conclusion that the category is not related to economic or technological issues.

**Category**
International relations, Politics