to hold further meetings of this nature in order to welcome among us all the peoples of Africa and other parts of the world that still struggle for their independence. 82. The PRESIDENT: I thank the representative of Panama for the remarks he addressed to me. 83. Mr. BENNETT (United States of America): Mr. President, in expressing appreciation for the ex- perienced handling of the affairs of this Council dur- ing the month of June of Ambassador Malik, I naturally would want to extend to you the warmest good wishes of the United States as you assume the presidency. Your own thorough experience with this body and your own high sense of purpose will, I have no doubt, combine to make you a distinguished president of our Security Council, and you may be sure that you may count on the full co-operation of the United States. 84. The United States has a long history of warm and cordial relations with its closest overseas neigh- bour,, the Bahamas. We have maintained official representation in Nassau for more than 150 years -since 1821. But even before that date, the peoples, of the United States and the Bahamas had begun to develop strong cultural and economic ties with each other, These ties derived not only from the proximity of the Bahama Islands to our shores but also from our common heritage ‘of concern for human dignity and self-determination. 85. Under the experienced leadership #of Prime Minister Pindling, the people of the Bahamas have demonstrated a sincere desire to be masters of their own national destiny and to assume the considerable responsibilities of independence. My Government therefore has welcomed the decision of the United Kingdom and applauds its readiness, in response to the request of the Government of the Bahamas, to 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a speech or statement made by a representative of the United States to the United Nations Security Council. The content is primarily focused on the relationship between the United States and the Bahamas, discussing their historical ties, cultural similarities, and the Bahamas' quest for independence. The text does not mention specific economic or environmental issues, but rather emphasizes the importance of self-determination and national sovereignty.

**Category**
International relations, Culture