measure the extent of the progress made in the implementation of the Declaration on Apartheid and its Destructive Consequences in Southern Africa, to focus on the difficulties and obstacles that have been encountered, and to consider all steps and actions necessary to dismantle without delay that odious system and to install in its place a democratic, non-racial and egalitarian society. It is also important because we are meeting at a time when the accession of Namibia to independence, the release of Nelson Mandela, and the fact that all the parties - in particular the African National Congress of South Africa (ANC), the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC), and all anti-apartheid forces - are clearly in favour of a constructive dialogue. We accordingly believe that the prerequisites for the attainment of our objectives have been met more fully than ever before. JB/15 A/44/PV.97 59-60 (Mrs. Diallo. Senegal) Lastly, it is important because, coinciding as it does with the end of your term. Sir, as President of the forty-fourth regular session of the General Assembly, our debate gives us a new opportunity to reiterate our esteem for your remarkable performance, carried out with competence, efficiency and self-sacrifice. My delegation therefore wishes to pay you a well-deserved tribute, because you have honoured the whole of Africa, as well as your great country, to which mine, Senegal, is linked by longstanding relations of exemplary friendship, fraternity and co-operation. I should also like to address a tribute to the Secretary-General of our Organization, Mr. Javier Perez de Cuellar, who, with a talent that has been unanimously acknowledged and praised, has contributed to giving a new image to the United Nations and making it credible and respected. The thorough and timely report he has just submitted points clearly to his numerous and considerable merits, his far-sightedness and his dedication to the noble ideals of peace and 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a speech or statement made by a delegate at the United Nations General Assembly, focusing on the progress made in addressing apartheid in Southern Africa. It discusses the implementation of a declaration, obstacles encountered, and the need to dismantle the apartheid system. The speech also acknowledges the contributions of the President of the General Assembly and the Secretary-General. Given the context and content of the text, it is likely that the category is related to human rights, international relations, or political affairs.

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