the urgent need for a balanced, negotiated settlement strikes us all so clearly, a settlement providing for the secure existence of Israel and the self-determination of the Palestinian people, with resolution 242 (1967) providing the necessary basis; where we can welcome King Hussein’s initiative and can all surely seek to encourage a step-by- step approach- towards a comprehensive solution. 330. Yet another example is Cyprus, where the United Nations role is essential, because both sides have confi- dence in it, where the current initiative offers a unique opportunity, but where once again the Secretary-General needs the support of the Security Council. - 331. Then there is southern Africa, where the situation in so many ways is of major concern to us all, where we see in its most striking form an example, in the words of the representative of Trinidad and Tobago, of man’s inhuman- jty to man; and South Africa, where we all join in rejecting apartheid for just that reason, where our objective is clear-fun&mental change, where we must ensure that our’ actions contribute effectively to that end, where I believe we should take care not to allow the Council to degenerate into a place simply for debate’ for and against mandatory trade boycotts, where we should ask ourselves whether we cannot build on the Council’s role there, too, as an agent of persuasion. 332. The thread running through so many interventions this evening was picked up most effectively by the Secre- tary of State of the United States, when he said-to paraphrase-that the United Nations is not less relevant than it was40 years ago, not less important than it was 40 years ago, it is more necessary, more important; because we have come thus far, we have further to go together. 333. We have recognition that the Council’s relevance to 
**Analysis**
The text discusses various international conflicts and crises, such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Cyprus dispute, and the situation in southern Africa, and emphasizes the importance of the United Nations in resolving these issues. It also touches on the need for effective action to bring about change and to ensure that the UN does not degenerate into a platform for debate. The tone is diplomatic and emphasizes the need for cooperation and persuasion.

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