of non-interference and respect for the national sov- ereignty and territorial integrity of States. 12. The chain of violence in the countries of the area -in Nicaragua, but in El Salvador as well-must be broken. The countries of Central America must be.per- mitted once again to solve their.problems for them- selves. They are entitled to demand respect for their independence and peace and security for their peoples. From that standpoint, the continuing Contadora pro- cess must now aim to transform those principles into concrete measures. This would involve a halt in demon- strations of strength and an end to violence and to interference by countries from outside the region in the internal affairs of Central American States. 13. .Only military de-escalation will make it possible, in a restored peace, to attain those priority goals of democracy and development which the States of the region, along with France and the rest of the inter- national community, so ardently desire. 14. Mr. KRISHNAN (India): I should like, Sir, to begin by congratulating you, the distinguished repre- sentative of a friendly Member State; on your assump- tion of the high office of President of the Council for the month that hasjust begun. Your tenure as President has commenced on a sombre note, as the Council is once again seized of the troubled situation in Central Amer- ica on the basis of a complaint by Nicaragua. Having had the privilege of working with you on other occa- sions, I am confident that you will bring to bear your considerable diplomatic skills and capabilities, as well as your eminent personal qualities on the discharge of your current responsibilities. 1s. To your predecessor, Mr. President, we pay a tribute for the admirable manner in which he conducted the proceedings of the Council during the month of 
**Analysis**
This text appears to be a diplomatic statement or communiqué discussing the situation in Central America, specifically the conflicts and violence in the region, and the need for a peaceful resolution. The language used is formal and diplomatic, with references to principles of international relations, such as non-interference and respect for national sovereignty. The text also mentions specific countries and organizations, indicating that it is a statement made by a representative of a country or organization.

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