the complexity of the issue as well as of the clear emotions it carries with it. Here again we find no room for radical and simple solutions. The Netherlands position on nuclear-testing limitations is clear and has been explained on a number of occasions: nuclear tests should be reduced both in number and in yield, concurrent with the ongoing process of deep reductions in nuclear arsenals. We do subscribe to the goal of a CTBT, the realization of which should be seen in the context of a process of disarmament. Along the CD/PV.568 7 (Mr. Wagenmakers. Netherlands) road of reducing both nuclear weapons and the reliance on those weapons in the strategy of dissuasion, halting tests could be contemplated as a further stimulus to rid the world of nuclear weapons eventually. Does this mean that the role of the Conference on Disarmament on the issue of a nuclear test ban is condemned and reduced to be a marginal one? No! The fact that the Ad hoc Committee's mandate provides for the initiation of substantive work on specific and interrelated test-ban issues, including verification and compliance, as well as structure and scope, in the framework of an ad hoc committee, is a clear indication of our common commitment. All of us do attach major political importance to paving the road, or, if you prefer, to preparing the ground for future negotiations on a comprehensive test-ban treaty. There are numerous aspects to be discussed, e.g. matters like an international seismic monitoring network, assessment of present and potential capabilities for monitoring compliance, the necessary institutional arrangements, other specific verification problems and new technologies. Solving these issues will be crucial for a future test-ban treaty. In view of their complexity it cannot be excluded that the actual agreement itself, the 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the complexities of nuclear testing and the efforts to reduce and eventually eliminate it. It highlights the importance of verification and compliance issues in achieving a comprehensive test-ban treaty. The language used is diplomatic and focused on international agreements and negotiations. This suggests that the topic is more related to international relations and diplomacy than to any specific sector or field.

**Category**
International relations, Science and technology