the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), which has made its Global Telecommunication System available to the GSE. Its continued co-operation will be essential for the success of GSETT-2. The PRESIDENT : I thank the representative of Japan for his statement made on behalf of the Western Group, and for the kind words he addressed to the Chair. I now give the floor to the representative of the German Democratic Republic, Ambassador Dietze, who will speak in his capacity as Co-ordinator of the Socialist Group for agenda item 1. Mr. DIETZE (German Democratic Republic): May I use this occasion, Sir, to express to you the extreme pleasure of my delegation at seeing you presiding over the Conference on Disarmament during this month. I am doing so in the conviction that under your efficient stewardship, the spring session of the Conference will produce positive and encouraging results which could lead us to a good start and substantial progess during the forthcoming summer session. Let me also express my appreciation for the efforts undertaken by you to facilitate the work of the CD in different fields. I assure you of my CD/PV.551 14 (Mr, Dietze. German Democratic Republic ) delegation's fullest support. The outgoing President, Ambassador Azikiwe, deserves our appreciation and gratitute for his committed and competent efforts during the past period of work. The group on whose behalf I have the the honour to take the floor attaches great importance to the work of the Ad hoc Group of Scientific Experts. By devising and testing a global seismic data exchange system, the GSE renders a significant contribution to setting up the scientific and technological basis for verification of compliance with a future comprehensive test-ban treaty. In so doing, the Ad hoc Group is effectively contributing to 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing a meeting of the Conference on Disarmament, where representatives from different countries are addressing issues related to the verification of compliance with a future comprehensive test-ban treaty. The discussion seems to be centered around the use of scientific and technological means, such as the Global Seismic Data Exchange System, to achieve this goal. The text also mentions the work of the Ad hoc Group of Scientific Experts and the importance of their contributions to the setting up of the scientific and technological basis for verification.

**Category**
Science and technology, International relations