Like all other countries of the international community, China has always attached a great importance to the question of a nuclear test ban, which is one of the priority issues on the Conference's agenda. The re-establishment of the Ad hoc Committee after an interregnum of six years is the result of the strong demand and the relentless efforts of the whole international community in general and the vast number of third world countries, including the non-aligned countries in particular. For this reason, the Chinese delegation would like to express its appreciation to all sides concerned, and particularly the Group of 21, for their relentless efforts and outstanding contributions. CD/PV.565 13 (Mr, Hou, China) In his important statement made at the Conference on Disarmament not long ago, the Chinese Foreign Minister, Mr. Qian Qichen, expounded comprehensively the principles of the Chinese Government on the issues of nuclear disarmament and a nuclear test ban. Having all along stood for the complete prohibition and thorough destruction of all nuclear weapons and made unremitting efforts to this end, China sympathizes with, and Understands, the ardent desire of the vast number of third world countries and other non-nuclear-weapon States for the early realization of a complete prohibition of nuclear tests. It is in this spirit that the Chinese delegation welcomes the statement on this issue of a nuclear test ban just made by the Group of 21. As is known, China has always exercised the utmost restraint and prudence as regards nuclear tests. China is actively preparing itself for,its participation in the test of international seismic data exchange. Here I would like to reaffirm that the delegation of the People's Republic of China will take an active part in the work of the Ad hoc Committee and together with all other delegations work for 
**Analysis**
The text is focused on international relations and disarmament, specifically the question of a nuclear test ban. It does not mention economic development, natural resources, agriculture, forestry, fishing, industry, transport, communication, international trade, health, education, employment, humanitarian aid, or culture. The language used is formal and diplomatic, suggesting a high-level discussion or negotiation. The text is likely related to science and technology, as it refers to nuclear tests and international seismic data exchange.

**Category**
Science and technology