research yields concrete results, the main task of the negotiators in Geneva should be to devote their attention to this aspect of the problem and to work out a co-operative approach to it that would prevent destabilizing developments. The objection that such an approach would result in the legitimation of reserach activities is not convincing, in our view, because these activities are legitimate under the ABM Treaty, which is the only international instrument relevant in this regard. The fact is that technological progress is a reality which cannot be stopped or disregarded. Therefore, in Geneva efforts should be aimed at devising, in the light of this reality, effective ways to strengthen strategic stability through consistent reductions of nuclear armaments in order to equal levels and to establish a mutually acceptable offence-defence relationship that would prevent an arms race in outer space. In this connection, I would like to say a few words on the proposal which has been submitted under item 145 of our agenda, but which is closely related to the issue of the prevention of an arms race in outer space. We have looked into this proposa l with great care and have listened with attention to the arguments which have been used to support it both in this Committee and on a bilateral basis. From whatever standpoint we look at it, however, we fail to understand how the proposal can relate in a constructive way to the work of the Ad Hoc Committee established just a few months ago by the Conference on Disarmament and to the bilateral negotiations going on in Geneva. We also wonder whether it would be wise to postpone, as would de facto be the case if the proposal were approved, all 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing international relations and diplomacy, specifically the prevention of an arms race in outer space. It mentions the ABM Treaty, the Conference on Disarmament, and bilateral negotiations, indicating that the topic is related to international security and disarmament. The language used is formal and diplomatic, suggesting that the text is a speech or document from a government or international organization.

**Category**
International relations, Science and technology