work of the Special Committee of 24; we also oongratulate the other members of the Bureau on their respective elections. We assure them of our continued co-operation and support, as the United Nations continues in its important endeavour to help shape a world which is free of any form of colonialism and which celebrates our common humanity. As we approach the thirtieth .,.,niversary of the historic Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, we believe it is appropriate to reflect on how far mankind has traveled since the days when colonialism was the rule rather than the exception. We believe it is also appropriate to give very careful thought and consideration to the unique circumstances and characteristics of the world's remaining Non-Self-Governing Territories. This is particularly true as we begin the International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism. It is our hope that this Decade will be in keeping with the current positive atmosphere surrounding the work of the United Nations. Per haps never before in its history has the United Nations been as close to realizing its capabilities as it is today. Thus, we view this Decade as an opportunity to advance further the lofty ideals of the Charter, and finally to bring to an errl the system known to us all as colonialism. The countries of the South Pacific take a great deal of interest in the work of the Special Committee. Our region is one which is known to contain many of the ' world's remaining Non-Self-Governing Territories. Thus, the continued effective work of the Committee is of great importance to us, and to the future of those peoples in the South Pacific that have not yet had the opportunity to determine their own destinies. BCT/cw A/AC.109/PV.1369 55 (Mr. Van Lierop, Vanuatu) 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a speech or statement about the United Nations' efforts to eradicate colonialism, specifically focusing on the work of the Special Committee of 24 and the International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism. The language used is formal and diplomatic, suggesting a focus on international relations and global governance. The text does not mention specific economic, environmental, or social issues, but rather emphasizes the importance of colonialism's eradication and the role of the United Nations in achieving this goal.

**Category**
Humanitarian aid and relief, International relations