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Questions of arms control must also be an essential part of our consideration 

 of the oceans. Complex as these questions are, they must be taken into con- 

 sideration if we are to develop meaningful principles to govern future state 

 behavior. The United States Delegation believes that we must seek effective 

 arms control measures as part of the evolving law of the deep ocean floor 

 and that their development should also come under the mandate of the Oceans 

 Committee. 



While my Delegation believes that it is too early to take any final decisions 

 on prosposals for a comprehensive legal regime for the deep ocean floor, such 

 as suggested by Ambassador Pardo, we would participate energetically in the 

 studies which will be needed before such decisions can be made. 



Mr. Chairman, the program I have suggested would represent an ambitious 

 undertaking for the Assembly. The problems ahead are vast. Yet the oppor- 

 tunities are equally vast. 



A Committee on Oceans, building on the present efforts of member states 

 and the United Nations, could serve as the focal point within the General 

 Assembly for study and development of the next steps which the nations must 

 take together in this field. In creating this Committee, and directing it toward 

 the tasks ahead, we would take effective action to enhance our knowledge of 

 the ocean and its floor — and to use it for the long-term benefit of the human 

 family. 



o 



