of this positive atmosphere to agree on practical measures which will facilitate our work on substantive issues. Lastly, may I note that I remain at the disposal of delegations on any matter which might be brought to the attention of the Chair. We shall now proceed with the order of business for today. In accordance with its programme of work, the Conference begins today its consideration of agenda item 5, "Prevention of an arms race in outer space". However, in accordance with rule 30 of its rules of procedure, any member wishing to do so may raise any subject relevant to the work of the Conference. I wish to recall that, in accordance with the timetable for this week, the Conference will hold today an informal meeting on the substance of agenda item 2, "Cessation of the nuclear arms race and nuclear disarmament". I have on my list of speakers today the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the German Democratic Republic, His Excellency Markus Meckel, to whom I take pleasure in giving the floor. Mr. MECKEL (German Democratic Republic) (translated from German): Mr. President, I want to thank you for the warm words of welcome which you addressed to my country and to me personally. I am very happy to be among the first to congratulate you, the representative of Poland, on assuming the presidency of this important forum. The people of Poland have to their credit a decisive share in the democratic transformations in Eastern and Central Europe. They sent out an important signal by rising up against the dictatorship. The relations between Germany and Poland were for centuries marked by hate, enmity and wars. The Germans participated several times in the division of Poland and inflicted serious damage on it. You may rest assured that we 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a speech or statement from a high-ranking government official, possibly from a diplomatic conference. The language used is formal and diplomatic, indicating a discussion of international relations and politics. The specific topics mentioned, such as "Prevention of an arms race in outer space" and "Cessation of the nuclear arms race and nuclear disarmament", suggest that the category may be related to international relations, security, or disarmament.

**Category**
International relations, Science and technology