Europe, for the last 45 years. This assertion is far from proven, as one cannot prove a negative. Nobody can know for sure what would have happened in the absence of nuclear weapons. But what we do know for sure is that the doctrine of deterrence has been closely linked to an unbridled arms race, to enormous build-up of highly sophisticated means of death and destruction. What we also know for sure is that deterrence and the arms race that has ensued have been accompanied by a continuous increase in tension, distrust and instability. And that in such an environment, it has been extremely difficult to conduct rational policies. The outcome has always been the same - further and further rounds of the arms race and more and more insecurity. A situation compared once by Olof Palme with addiction to a drug when you continually need a larger and larger dose. Nuclear armaments are our heaviest common burden and a matter of common concern. Nuclear disarmament should therefore find the priority place it deserves in multilateral negotiations within the Conference on Disarmament. I completely agree with my former colleague Ambassador Sharma, who pointed out on 3 April that we have to "squarely address the question of the longer-term expectations of mankind on the threshold of the twenty-first century, which we ourselves have to shape into reality". What our future will be depends to a great extent on our ability to draw all necessary conclusions from past experience and to avoid past illusions and mistakes. This is exactly the reason why I expanded on the political situation in the world which, until recently, was not a source of inspiration. The world is now in a unique situation in its post-war history. For a 
**Analysis**
The text primarily focuses on the concept of nuclear deterrence and its impact on international relations, discussing the arms race, tension, and instability it creates. It also touches on the importance of learning from past experiences and shaping a better future. Given these themes, it is likely that the text belongs to the category of international relations or diplomacy.

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