the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Am- bassador Gunnar Jarring, will be taking part in the Council’s meetings; his mission and efrorts represent an important and integral element in the succession of attempts made by the United Nations to achieve a peaceful political settle- ment in the Middle East. 7. The Council’s decision to consider the question of the situation in the Middle East was taken following a request by Egypt, whose Foreign Minister, Mr. El-Zayyat, has come to New York specially in order to be able to participate personally in the discussion of this item by the Security Council. I should like to take this opportunity to welcome Mr. El-Zayyat, our distinguished friend and colleague from earlier days in the United Nations, and also to welcome the Foreign Ministers of other countries who will be taking part in the discussion of this item. 8. As members know, the Security Council has frequently considered the question of the situation in the Middle East. The Council has already unanimously adopted the well- known resolution 242 (1967) of 22 November 1967, which has won wide recognition, and a number of other decisions. Resolution 242 (1967) is rightly considered by an over- whelming majority of States Members of the United Nations as providing an international legal basis for a Middle East settlement. Resolutions on this question have also been adopted by the General Assembly. They are all awaiting implementation, 9. The Security Council’s decision to undertake a wide- ranging discussion of the situation in the Middle East in all its aspects testifies to the broad recognition by the members of the Council of the responsibility placed on them by the United Nations Charter and of the urgent need to ensure progress towards a political settlement in the Middle East. The international political importance which 
**Analysis**
This text appears to be discussing a diplomatic effort to resolve a conflict in the Middle East, with references to the United Nations Charter, resolutions, and the participation of foreign ministers. The tone is formal and official, suggesting that the topic is of high importance and international significance. The language used is technical and diplomatic, indicating that the discussion is focused on the political and legal aspects of the situation.

**Category**
International humanitarian aid and relief, Politics