step on the road to an all-European and ultimately global prohibition of all chemical weapons. As is well known, negotiations on a comprehensive ban of these types of weapons have been under way in Geneva for 15 years. It is high time to JSM/gmr A/C.l/40/PV.4 48 (Mr. Ott, German Democratic Republic) conclude a world-wide convention. We are convinced that a partial solution at the regional level could play a pilot role and help bring about a breakthrough. The proposed chemical-weapon-free zone would be established by removing existing arsenals and keeping it free of such weapons. In this context, we welcome the readiness declared by the Soviet Union to provide guarantees for respecting such a zone. It would be possible to take into account in the relevant negotiations between the three States the.outline of an agreement to establish a zone free of chemical weapons in Europe, which was worked out a few months ago by the Socialist Unity Party of Germany and the Social Democratic Party of Germany. This draft already contains many substantive ideas about possible treaty formulations, as for instance regarding the geographical definition of the zone, obligations, stages, purpose and validity. Especially with regard to verification of compliance with the treaty obligations by the parties concerned, the draft sets forth profound and realistic proposals. In our view, there exist the conditions for immediate commencement of substantive negotiations. It is to be hoped that commonsense and political responsibility will at last prevail and ensure that one of the most cruel types of weapons is removed from Europe, that new impetus is given to disarmament and that security is thus strengthened on the continent and the world at large. With this statement I have explained the position of the delegation of the German Democratic Republic on some problems which are the subject of discussion in 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the prohibition of chemical weapons and the establishment of a chemical-weapon-free zone in Europe, which implies a focus on international relations, disarmament, and security. The text also references negotiations and agreements between states, indicating an international dimension.

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