studies, byconvening adhocexpert groupandintergovernmental meetings, andby conducting training courses andadvisory missions; (b)Surveys andstudies ontheformulation ofamaster planforthe establishment ofESCWAregional transport networks, aswellastheconsolidation of transport bridges through specific projects between theMashreq andtheMaghreb countries, willbeinitiated withaviewtohaving themaster plancompleted; (c)Theidentification, formulation andpreparation ofregional and subregional programmes andprojects forESCWAregional merchant fleets andports development willbecarried outandfinalized; (d)Theimplementation, finalization andfollow-up oftheprogrammes and projects fortheTransport andCommunications Decade forWestern Asia,including thefullestablishment oftheTrans-Arab Corridors willbeconducted. Research and technical assistance activities, aswellassupport fornegotiations (pledging conferences, inter-agency meetings, etc.)fortheDecade's investment programmes willbeundertaken. 34.133 Theactivities ofthesecretariat intheareaofcommunications (telecommunications andpostal services) willfocusonthepreparation ofplansand programmes tolinktheESCWAregionwiththeother[world] regions. These activities and,inparticular, theimprovement oftelephone-switching centres, will betackled within theframework oftheTransport andCommunications Decade for Western Asia. 34.134 Thesecretariat willcontinue topublish annually dataonthetransport and communications sector (networks, capacity andutilization). -33- Digitized by Dag Hammarskjöld Library
**Analysis**
The text appears to be focused on the development of transportation networks and communication infrastructure in the ESCWA region, with the goal of promoting economic growth and connectivity. It mentions specific projects and initiatives, such as the formulation of a master plan for regional transport networks, the development of regional merchant fleets and ports, and the improvement of telephone-switching centers. This suggests that the primary category should be related to transportation and communication.

**Category**
Transport and communication