region, including Israel’s right to exist. 44. As is well known, these two essential principles have been set out by the 10 States members of the European Community in the declaration issued at Venice on 13 June 1980 [S/14009] and in their subsequent statements on the issue, to which the Netherlands Government firmly adheres. Within this framework, the Netherlands will con- tinue to be active in pursuing its efforts to promote a comprehensive, just and Iasting peace settlement in the region. 45. The PRESIDENT (interpretation from Russian): The next speaker is the representative of Kuwait, I invite him to take a place at the Council table and to make his statement. 46. Mr, ABULHASSAN (Kuwait) (interpretation from Arabic): Mr. President, it gives me great pleasure to address you in Arabic for the first time since it was unanimously introduced as an official working language in the Council. The Arabic language reflects the civiliza- tion and thought of a nation that has had and still has an important role in the mainstream of international relations. 47. Allow me, Sir, to congratulate you on your assump- tion of the presidency for the month of February and to confirm the absolute confidence of my delegation in your competence to conduct the deliberations of the Council, givqn your wisdom, ability and perfect objectivity. 48. I also want to express the appreciation of my delega- tion for the way in which your predecessor, Mr. Amega, the represeritative of Togo, conducted the affairs of the Council during the month of January. 49. I should like also to avail myself of this opportunity to congratulate the new members of the Council, the representatives of Malta, the Netherlands, Nicaragua, Pakistan and ZimI rbwe, and to wish them success in their new and importar ; mission. 
**Analysis**
This text appears to be a diplomatic statement, discussing international relations, peace settlements, and the role of countries in the region. It does not mention specific economic, environmental, or scientific issues, but rather focuses on the political and international aspects of the region.

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