regarding developments, as we view them, in the United States-Soviet strategic arms reduction talks since his last briefing last August. He will be followed by Ambassador Smith, who will brief the Conference on the current status of the defence and space negotiations. The United States delegation to the Conference on Disarmament is pleased to be able to offer these briefings as a part of our continuing efforts to keep the Conference abreast of progress in these important bilateral arms control discussions. Thank you, Mr. President. With your permission, I will turn the floor over to Ambassador Burt. Mr. BURT (United States of America): I would like to thank Ambassador Ledogar for his warm introduction. I have known Steve for a long time. He is experieneced and extremely capable, and the United States is proud to have him lead our delegation here at the CD. Indeed, his appointment to this important post was a statement of our high regard for this institution. I would also like to thank you, Mr. President, for your kind words and for the opportunity to brief the Conference on Disarmament. I wish you the greatest success during your tenure as CD President. Once again, I am pleased to be speaking to the members of the Conference on Disarmament on the status of the negotiations on nuclear and space arms in Geneva. As Steve Ledogar pointed out. Ambassador David Smith, the chief United States negotiator for the defence and space talks, is with me and will discuss those negotiations in a few moments. Eight months ago, I came here to discuss the United States' objective in START - the Strategic Arms Reduction Talks. Our objective is to complete a treaty that provides for reductions in strategic offensive arms, enhances 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be related to international diplomacy and arms control, specifically discussing the United States-Soviet strategic arms reduction talks and the negotiations on nuclear and space arms in Geneva. The language used is formal and official, suggesting a high-level government or diplomatic context.

**Category**
International relations, Science and technology