political decisions at the highest level can overcome the great threat over us all. As the great French poet, Paul Valery, said a long time ago, after the First World war, "we now see that the abyss of history is large enough to swallow the whole world". Nevertheless, we recognize -still following the thoughts of the French poet - that the modern world, with all its potential, with its technical abilities, has still been unable to arrive at a policy, a morality, an ideal or civil and criminal laws that are in keeping with the living standards it has created. This lack of balance we see clearly with regard to the problem of disarmament. The human intelligence has placed us on a course towards disaster or salvation. The choice is easy, but, as always, the interplay of interests distorts the decision-making process. One of the tasks of this Committee is to make a careful analysis, to have gOod practical sense and not to fall into exaggerated positions. What formulas may be found to translate into practical terms a constructive spirit for achieving the goals of the United Nations? JVM/6 A/C.l/ 40/PV. 9 16 (Mr. Sucre ¥igarella, Venezuela) There has been a great deal of discussion on this within our Organization. Paradoxically, it is deterrence that has so far averted an incalculable evil, but this is a passive, uncertain and immoral means and nothing lasting can be expected of it. It is, as has been stated, the balance of terror, the balance of fear. The fact that it has worked thus far does not mean that in a time of crisis it will be useful and, furthermore, it perpetuates the division of power between the two big Powers. An extreme attitude may be insincere or naive. General and complete 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing a high-level international meeting, likely the United Nations, and the topic of disarmament and international relations. The language used is formal and diplomatic, suggesting a focus on global politics and international security. The text also touches on the concept of morality and the balance of power between nations.

**Category**
International relations, Security