is the considered view of my delegation that the provisions of the United Nations Charter and the contemporary rules of international law pertaining to outer space do not bear out this argument, for several reasons. Firstly, the Charter of the United Nations does not deal, as such, with the definition of what is defensive or offensive. The Charter prohibits the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any State, or in any other manner inconsistent with the purposes and principles of the United Nations. Secondly, the Charter recognizes the right of legitimate self-defence if an armed attack occurs, a fact also endorsed by rules of customary international law. Thirdly, the major difference between outer space and terrestrial space emanates from the special nature of outer space as the common heritage of mankind. A State has an inalienable sovereign right to use its territory for military purposes in accordance with the relevant provisions of the United Nations Charter. Outer space, however, is not part of the territory of any State and cannot be subject to the exercise of national jurisdiction. It follows that States should refrain from militarizing what belongs to mankind as a whole. CD/PV.550 16 (Mr. Elaraby, Egypt) Even if we assume, for the sake of argument, that ambiguity surrounds the concepts of offensive versus defensive uses of outer space, this should not become a licence for States to increase military activities in outer space in a manner inconsistent with the principle of preserving space for peaceful purposes and preventing an arms race from occurring in outer space. It is for these reasons that my delegation attaches great importance to the deliberations of, and the work conducted in, the Ad hoe Committee on the Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space. It is therefore essential that the 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing the use of outer space for military purposes, referencing the United Nations Charter and international law. It emphasizes the importance of preventing an arms race in outer space and promoting peaceful uses of space. Given the focus on international law and the prevention of military activities, it is likely that the text falls under the category of international relations.

**Category**
International relations, Science and technology