for Foreign Affairs and the representative of Thailand, who during the month of May guided the work of the Council in an exemplary manner. 9. The situation in southern Africa gives cause for great anxiety. My Government has observed with dismay the escalation of violence in South Africa over the past few weeks and notes with concern that the use of force has generally increased, not least due to excessive police action. It appeab to those holding responsibility in South Africa to create without delay a political order that will have the support of all South Africans. 10. In this context, the elimination of apartheid in South Africa by peaceful means remains a prime objective of our policy. The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany regards apartheid as racial discrimination and condemns it without qualification. 11. My delegation has asked to speak in the current debate because in 1977 and 1978 the Federal Republic of Germany, as a member of the Security Council , contrib- uted to the formulation of essential parts of resolution 435 (1978) and ever since has been actively engaged in seeking its implementation as a member of the Western contact group. 12. Regrettably, resolution 435 (1978) has not yet been put into effect. Action to implement it is long overdue, and my Government can understand the embitterment of the African States. It shares their disappointment at Na- mibia still not having gained independence. My Govern- ment believes that the right of the Namibian people to self-determination and independence must be recognized and should be implemented irrespective of any other problem, although we appreciate that there are important problems still unresolved. 13. Our position on the Namibia question has at all times been clear and unequivocal. In the recent past, my Government has reaffirmed its unmistakable position 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the situation in southern Africa, specifically in South Africa and Namibia, and the efforts of the Federal Republic of Germany to promote peace and self-determination in the region. It also touches on the topic of apartheid and its condemnation. The language used is formal and diplomatic, suggesting a governmental or international organization's statement.

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