moment or two not in my capacity as President but as Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs of the UNITED KINGDOM. 316. I begin by extending my personal thanks to col- leagues for the distinguished, thoughtful and eloquent way in which they have presented their insights and observa- tions to the Council this afternoon. I should like also to echo a thought that was common to almost every one of the statements and join my colleagues in paying a tribute to the Secretary-General-the fifth holder of that office, someone whom we all know to be well qualified by his experience as a previous permanent representative of his country, by his distinguished years of service in the Secreta- riat. He was well qualified when he was chosen; he has not disappointed us. We are enormously grateful to him. 317. It has been a privilege for me to have the opportu- nity of presiding over this historic meeting, to play my part on behalf of the United Kingdom-able to contribute something from our experience and our connection with the United Nations. The United Kingdom was a co- architect of the Charter of the United Nations, one of the. nations involved with the birth of the United Nations. The United Kingdom was the nation that had the privilege of serving as host to the first meeting of the Security Council, in London on 17 January 1946. So we have been actively involved in the United Nations throughout its history, actively involved as one of the permanent members taking part in the whole range of its activities. We have done so, well aware of our special responsibilities as one of the permanent members of this Council. We echo the words of B our colleague of the People’s Republic- of China, who 
**Analysis**
This text appears to be a diplomatic speech, focusing on international relations and the United Nations. It does not mention specific economic, environmental, or social issues, but rather pays tribute to the Secretary-General and acknowledges the United Kingdom's long-standing involvement in the UN.

**Category**
International relations, Humanitarian aid and relief