the present trends will be. The issue of preventing an arms race in outer space has attracted much attention recently. The Swedish Government believes that security cannot be achieved through technical solutions -for example through new military systems which can be introduced in outer space. They cannot solve the fundamentally political problem that reliance on nuclear deterrence constitutes. Increased security can be found only through co-operation and negotiated political solutions, not through confrontation. The anti-ballistic missile Treaty represents one of the most important achievements in the area of arms limitations. However, certain developments threaten to erode that Treaty. Anti-satellite technology can be used also for anti-ballistic missile purposes. Anti-tactical ballistic missiles (ATBM) may soon have a capability to meet certain strategic missiles. It is essential that the anti-ballistic missile Treaty be maintained and that efforts be made to prevent its erosion. The Soviet Union has carried out a long series of tests of its anti-satellite system and the United States recently tested a new more advanced anti-satellite weapon. Both of them should scrap their systems and co-operate with other countries in negotiating a total ban on anti-satellite weapons in the Conference on Disarmament. The primary responsibility for the prevention of an arms race in outer space rests with two major space Powers. Outer space must be preserved for peaceful uses and co-operation. BG/4 A/C.l/40/PV.4 10 (Mrs. Theorin, Sweden) The seas and the oceans, covering more than 70 per cent of the earth's surface, are also the scene of an intensive technological arms race. The tasks of national navies range from coastal patrol to intervention in distant conflicts, from local self-defence to global power projection, and from age-old gunboat diplomacy to nuclear deterrence. The major maritime Powers maintain naval forces ready for rapid deployment 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the issue of preventing an arms race in outer space and the seas, highlighting the importance of co-operation and negotiated political solutions to achieve security. It also touches on the need to maintain and strengthen existing treaties, such as the anti-ballistic missile Treaty. The text focuses on the actions of major space powers and maritime nations, emphasizing their primary responsibility in preventing an arms race. Given the topics discussed, it seems that the text is more closely related to international relations and security issues rather than economic or social development.

**Category**
Science and technology, International relations