major Powers and maritime users. The success of the conference would largely depend on a firm and resolute commitment by the countries of the region, the major Powers and maritime users of the Ocean to the principles of the declaration of the Indian Ocean as a zone of peace. While recognizing that real and potential difficulties stand in the way of the conclusion of acceptable treaties to reduce the danger of vertical and horizontal proliferation of nuclear weapons, I wish to reaffirm my country's strong belief that a verifiable agreement limiting nuclear tests would be a logical step in that direction. It is the view of my delegation that one of the greatest obstacles facing world security is the continuous qualitative technological modernization of nuclear arsenals. It is thus imperative that the issue of a ban on nuclear tests MLG/ve A/C.l/40/PV.9 38 (Mr. Afande, Kenya) be fully addressed. Since the partial test ban Treaty came into force some 20 years ago no real steps have been taken towards reaching agreement on a comprehensive test ban which would be an effective barrier against the development of a new generation of nuclear systems, and thereby strengthen efforts to prevent the outbreak of a nuclear war. We share the view that verification arrangements can be adequately negotiated and accommodated in the final treaty. Recent breakthroughs in seismological science and other inspection methods of verification of nuclear tests provide an adequate and feasible basis in this regard. However, all nuclear-weapon Powers have a special responsibility to initiate this line of action that would lead to a comprehensive test ban and strengthen the non-proliferation regime. A comprehensive test-ban treaty, together with the Non-Proliferation Treaty and the wide-ranging safeguards administered by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), promise a guarantee of peaceful intent 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a diplomatic statement discussing the importance of reducing the danger of nuclear weapons and promoting a comprehensive test ban treaty. The language used is formal and technical, suggesting a focus on international relations and security. The text also touches on the issue of verification and the role of international organizations, such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Given these themes, it is likely that the text falls under the category of international relations and security.

**Category**
Science and technology, International relations