Secretary-General will subsequently submit to the General Assembly. Egypt recognizes, however, that the concept of a nuclear-weapon-free zone needs to be strengthened by including other weapons of mass destruction. The rapid pace of progress in the production and development of weapons of mass destruction necessitates the adoption of a more comprehensive approach. For the sake of ensuring peace and security to future generations in our region, Egypt deems it imperative now to advocate the importance of widening the scope of the zone to comprise all weapons of mass destruction. CD/PV.554 13 (Mr. Elaraby, Egypt) It is the considered opinion of the Government of Egypt that the establishment of a zone free of weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East merits urgent attention and serious examination. The document circulated today is self-explanatory. I believe a careful perusal of its contents will contribute to a better and more profound appreciation of our proposal. It is our earnest hope that this proposed comprehensive approach will command the active support of all concerned States as well as the international community as a whole. The PRESIDENT ; I thank the distinguished representative of Egypt, Ambassador Nabil Elaraby, for his statement and for the very important proposal which is contained in that statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Canada, Ambassador Shannon. Mr. SHANNON (Canada): I am pleased to have the opportunity today to make my first formal presentation to the Conference on Disarmament. May I begin first by expressing my own delegation's great appreciation of your leadership during the past month. Sir, as well as our satisfaction that you will continue to oversee our affairs during the coming period while the Conference is in recess? I would also like at this point to thank your predecessors for the 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing a proposal for a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the Middle East, which suggests that it is related to international relations and security. The mention of weapons of mass destruction and the need for a comprehensive approach to ensure peace and security in the region also supports this interpretation.

**Category**
International relations, Security