Europe (CSCE) and the commencement of talks on confidence-building and security-building measures (CSBMs) and conventional armed forces in Europe (CFE). We welcome talks between the super-Powers and between the two major alliances on disarmament issues. However, we continue to believe that they cannot be a substitute for multilateral negotiations under the aegis of the United Nations, where the vital security interests of the smaller countries would also be taken into account and protected. The Conference on Disarmament provides the most appropriate forum for this purpose. We must make optimum use of this multilateral forum for progress towards meaningful disarmament. In view of the sea change in threat perceptions following upon the transformation in the international environment, we believe that the Conference on Disarmament must pay special attention to the early conclusion of a comprehensive test-ban treaty and a chemical weapons convention. The Conference on Disarmament must also examine issues which are increasingly engaging the attention of the international community, such as regional disarmament and naval disarmament. CD/PV.550 3 (The President) As we stand on the threshold of a new era, we must rededicate ourselves to the goal of general and complete disarmament as an important basis for the future structure of international peace and security. We must undertake efforts at both global and regional levels for progress towards this goal. Disarmament is a necessary condition economic and social progress of humanity. enormous expenditure is incurred annually mankind continues to suffer from grinding for the physical survival and the It is indeed regrettable that on armaments while the majority of poverty. We would like to urge that material and human resources should be diverted by all countries of the world from military uses towards the amelioration of the existing economic conditions of humanity, particularly in the developing countries. Hopefully the current favourable international 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be focused on the topic of disarmament and its relationship with global security, economic development, and poverty reduction. It emphasizes the need to divert resources from military uses to address economic and social challenges, particularly in developing countries. This suggests that the text is concerned with the broader implications of disarmament on human well-being and development.

**Category**
Economic development, Humanitarian aid and relief