Lastly, let me add one further point. In 1982 and 1983, when we had an ad hoc committee on agenda item 1, two nuclear-weapon States did not participate in the work of the Ad hoc Committee, which was regretted by all the rest of the delegations at that time. This time, although the participation of France has not yet been promised, the People's Republic of China has, as I reported earlier, made it clear that it would participate in the work of the ad hoc committee when it is established, and I am confident that this very significant and very positive step taken by our Chinese colleague will be whole-heartedly welcomed by delegations around the table. The PRESIDENT: I thank the representative of Japan for his statement and for the kind words he addressed to the Chair. At the same time, I welcome the positive results achieved in the consultations undertaken by Ambassador Donowaki on a draft mandate for an ad hoc committee under agenda item 1. I am sure all members will agree with me that such results are the consequence of the active efforts of Ambassador Donowaki and his predecessor, Ambassador Yamada. Their skillful handling of this important subject, as well as their able diplomacy, have led to the present situation. I already announced at the opening of this plenary meeting that we shall hold today an informal meeting to consider a number of organizational questions. Of course, the question of a draft mandate for an ad hoc committee under agenda item 1 should be addressed at that meeting, together with requests from non-Members to participate in our work. If there is no objection, I shall proceed to suspend this plenary meeting and to hold an informal meeting of the Conference in five minutes' time. Immediately afterwards, we shall resume the plenary meeting in order to 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing the work of a committee or conference, likely a diplomatic or international meeting, and mentions the participation of countries and the draft of a mandate. The topic seems to be related to international relations and diplomacy, but it is not clear what specific issue or theme is being addressed.

**Category**
International relations, Politics