therefore, that we have felt a strong need to consider possibilities of improving the effectiveness of the Conference. It has been stated many times that unless the Conference on Disarmament is able to demonstrate progress in the near future, its very existence will be called into question. It is not this matter that worries me, it is the fate of the issues before us. There is no other multilateral forum that could negotiate the treaties which are needed. The Conference on Disarmament has demonstrated in the past that it is able to do so. There is no reason why it should not negotiate fruitfully also in the future - when the need for multilateral solutions will become even greater. The CD is a necessity and will continue to be so. The political will to reach concrete agreements must be manifested at the negotiating table, and not only in general political declarations at various international conferences. The decision-making power obviously rests with the capitals, but there are a number of things that we can do here to facilitate the progress and the process, once the necessary political will of governments is forthcoming. Ambassador Kamal of Pakistan is carrying out a series of open-ended consultations on the improved and effective functioning of the Conference on Disarmament. These consultations are very topical, since they focus on how CD/PV.566 3 (Mr, Hyltenius. Sweden) the Conference on Disarmament should reform itself with a view to keeping pace with the swift changes in the international political climate. The Conference was conceived on the basis of a different political situation than we have today. It is obvious that the experiences gained over the years and the changing international situation must have an impact on the mode of functioning of the CD. The consultations now initiated take place against the background of 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing the Conference on Disarmament, a multilateral forum aimed at negotiating treaties related to disarmament and arms control. The language used is diplomatic and focused on the need for progress and reform to ensure the Conference's continued relevance and effectiveness. The text does not mention specific economic, environmental, or social issues, but rather emphasizes the importance of the Conference's work and the need for governments to demonstrate political will to reach concrete agreements.

**Category**
International relations, Security