exercises take place in the northern part of the Korean peninsula. My country is steadily improving relations with countries whose ideological and political differences were hindering factors in the past. Improved relations with these nations is an important confidence-building effort, and they also increase global influence for the removal of barriers standing in the way of the inter-Korean reconciliation process. When mutual confidence and trust lead to the removal of the barriers, the Korean people, both South and North, will be able to find the way to a durable and lasting peace on the Korean peninsula and attainment of the peaceful reunification of the divided country. The PRESIDENT : I thank the representative of the Republic of Korea for his statement, and would like to address a very sincere kamsa hamnida to him for the very courteous and kind words addressed to this Chair and to my person. The last two speakers will deal with the progress report of the Ad hoc Group of Scientific Experts to Consider International Co-operative Measures to Detect and Identify Seismic Events. Before we proceed to consider it, may I ask whether any other delegation wishes to take the floor on any other matter at this stage? Since that does not seem to be the case, I will now give the floor to the representative of Japan, Mr. Watanabe, as co-ordinator of the Western Group for agenda item 1, "Nuclear test ban". Mr, WATANABE (Japan): It gives us great pleasure to see Pakistan presiding over the Conference on Disarmament for the month of April. Pakistan and Japan have enjoyed excellent relations over the years. We assure you of our full co-operation in the fulfilment of your duties. CD/PV.551 13 (Mr, Watanabe, Japan) Today, on behalf of a group of Western countries, I would like to speak 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a diplomatic statement discussing the relations between countries, particularly North and South Korea, and the goal of achieving a peaceful reunification of the Korean peninsula. The language used is formal and diplomatic, indicating that it is a speech delivered at an international conference. The topics mentioned, such as confidence-building, inter-Korean reconciliation, and nuclear test ban, suggest that the category is likely related to international relations and politics.

**Category**
International relations, Politics