A/35/PV.84 General Assembly

As my delegation has already made an explanatory statement in the Second Committee on agenda item 61 (a), I should like to use this opportunity to make several brief observations of a more general nature. 78. First, I offer my sincere congratulations to Mr. Naik, who has served as Chairman of the Pre- paratory Committee for the International Develop- ment Strategy. His will-power and perseverance enabled us to hammer .out compromise after com- promise on literally hundreds of issues. As meetings ran through the night, many of us despaired, but Mr. Naik always appeared fresh and ready to seek new solutions to seemingly unresolvable issues. Truly, there would in all probability not have been a United Nations development strategy or decade without the leadership and drafting expertise of Mr. Naik. 79. There are some thoughts that I should like to share with the General Assembly regarding the nature ofthe International Development Strategy for the Third United Nations Development Decade and its role in efforts of the United Nations to resolve issues of international economic co-operation. 80. The International Development Strategy for the First United Nations Development Decade [resolution /7/0 (XV)] was basically a simple resolution declaring a United Nations Development Decade and calling upon all countries to plan accordingly. The Interna- tional Development Strategy for the Second United Nations Development Decade proclaimed in resolution 2626 (XXV) contained targets for growth and levels of development finance and requirements for changes in the international economic system over the Decade. The International Development Strategy for the Third United Nations Development Decade is more political in nature. It enumerates desired changes in the structure of international economic relations. This evolution is perhaps not as rapid as we should like, but the point I wish to emphasize is that it is an evolution and that it continues to proceed in the right direction. 81. As a diplomat I have learnt that very rarely do we make great leaps forward. Rather, we reach consensus on basic goals that we, as an international community, wish to achieve, and then agree on ways and means of implementation. 83. Finally, regarding the International Development Strategy, it must be noted that this document is a universal document. Indeed, the economic problems that face the world must be attacked on a universal basis. No country or group of countries can absolve itself from the responsibility to help alleviate the world's economic problems. Thus we must reiterate our understanding that the responsibilities ofdeveloped countries in the International Development Strategy apply as much to the socialist States of Eastern Europe as to any others. 84. Let me now turn to restrictive business practices, the subject of draft resolution VII under agenda item 61 (c) [see A/35/592/Add.2, para. 45]. The United States delegation is pleased to join the consensus in adopting, as General Assembly resolution 35/63, the Set of Multilaterally Agreed Equitable Principles and Rules for the Control of Restrictive Business Prac- tices. The principles and rules are designed to reduce restraint of trade by private and State-owned enter- prises. They thus complement the efforts rece.itly concluded by GATT to minimize trade and tariff restrictions of government origin. We believe that through the advocacy of the principles and rules of fair competition standards, non-discrimination and due process of law concepts, the full benefits of interna- tional trade for all participants can be realized. 85. Mr. Sanchis Mufioz, President of the United Nations Conference on Restrictive Business Practices, speaking during the final plenary meeting of the Conference, noted the constructive attitude of all delegations and the atmosphere of collaboration and spirit of goodwill and mutual understanding which pervaded the meeting. We believe that only through this spirit of common purpose could the Conference have concluded so acceptably to all groups. 86. The same spirit of common purpose which was essential to the successful conclusion of the Con- ference will certainly be necessary to derive maximum benefits from the principles and rules we have adopted in the General Assembly, for, as the principles and rules represent recommendations for enterprise and State conduct and are not of a legally binding charac- ter, only through a shared perception that they are fair and balanced can their true potential be realized. 87. The principles and rules provide for a number of important activities, including provision of technical assistance and service by the Ad Hoc Group of Experts on Restrictive Business Practices as a forum for multilateral discussions. The United/ States is pleased to support these activities and, to the extent of our resources, will participate fully in them. We continue to believe that technical assistance should be funded on a voluntary basis. My Government wishes to make clear its position with regard to the financial implications of the convening of the Ad Hoc Group of Experts and a review conference. We believe that funds for these purposes should be made available 88. Finally, regarding draft resolution I entitled "Problems of remnants of war" [see A/35/592/Add.4, para. 46] under agenda item 61 (k), my delegation abstained in the vote because we do not believe that this is an appropriate subject for consideration under matters of UNEP and because we disagree with the legal assumptions underlying the draft resolution.

I shall speak first on behalf of Belgium and Luxembourg and subsequently on behalf of Belgium alone. 90. Belgium and Luxembourg support the statement made in the name of the European Community which set forth in great detail our views on the different items related to the International Development Strategy for the Third United Nations Development Decade. Our two countries have joined in the con- sensus on the target fixed for official development assistance during the Third Deca.de. They will con- tinue their efforts, which are already considerable, in order to achieve the target of 0.7 per cent of the gross national product before the end of the present Decade, although the pace of those efforts may well be affected by the difficult budgetary situation which our two countries are encountering at the present time. An objective that aims at devoting 1 per cent of GNP to official development assistance seems to us, considering that situation, rather unrealistic. It would not in any case be attained during the current decade. 91. I shall now speak on behalf of my delegation. The prospects for growth in official development assistance in the coming years are not very favourable. Imagination must be shown in seeking new strategies which will reactivate and revitalize development co- operation. It is in that spirit that the Belgian authorities have proposed a pact for interdependent growth, the main expression of which was set forth in the Second Committee." That pact seeks to elaborate consistent, flexible and mutually advantageous' machinery for increased transfer of resources toward the developing countries and to contribute to the creation of condi- tions for a worldwide economic recovery. 92. Within the framework of the Strategy that we have just adopted, and in conformity with paragraph 24 thereof, Belgium is expecting from the international community an immediate and in-depth examination of the pact for interdependent growth." It trusts that the organs of the United Nations will devote to that pact their earnest attention, with the same degree of care 7 lbid.• 22nd meeting. paras. 35-37. and 35th meeting. para. 42. and ibid.. Second Committee. Sessional Fascicle, corrigendurn. K See A/S-II/AC.I/5. annex. 96. The Canadian Government views the agreed principles and rules as a set of voluntary guidelines designed to enhance the economic development of all States in practical terms, and my Government notes that those guidelines are not designed to limit the ability of States to promote such economic development. Indeed, the guidelines do not provide a blanket condemnation of all restrictive business prac- tices and recognize that in some circumstances such practices should not be proscribed. 97. For example, section B, paragraph 9, ofthe docu- ment containing the Set of Multilaterally Agreed Equitable Principles and Rules for the Control of Restrictive Business Practices, provides that the prin- ciples and rules "shall not apply to intergovernmental agreements, nor to restrictive business practices directly caused by such agreements." 10 98. In section C, paragraph 6, of the same document, there are excepted from the application of those prin- ciples and rules restrictive business practices that have their origin in the policies of States. Again, in section C, paragraph 7, a further exception is recog- nized in acknowledging that certain restrictive business practices may be legitimate when they contribute to the development policies of developing countries. 99. The Canadian Government notes that the guide- lines do not contain a section on jurisdiction, nor do they address problems in the control of restrictive business practices that sometimes arise when one country seeks to apply its own laws extraterritorially to the field of foreign commerce. 9 North-South: A program for Survival; report of the Independent Commission on International Development Issues. under the chairmanship of WiIly Brandt (Cambridge. Massachusetts. The MIT Press, IlJ80). 10 See A/C.2/35/6. annex. 101. In conclusion Canada welcomes the principles and rules and considers that the code will make a valuable contribution to the control of restrictive business practices in limiting the undesirable activities of companies which may restrict international trade and undermine the sovereign right of States to determine their own paths for economic development. 102. Mr. CAMBITSIS (Greece): The Greek delega- tion has participated actively in the drafting of the text on the International Development Strategy for the 1980s which we have adopted today. We are conscious of th~ importance of that text for the elaboration of national development policies and fer the continuation of development co-operation at the international level. ' 103. We are also aware ofthe difficult problems which all parties faced during the neg?tiations preceding !he special session, as well as during the special sess~on itself, and of the spirit of compromise and co-operation that has prevailed all along. We hope that th~ ~ell­ balanced text which resulted from these negotiations will provide a solid basis for the establishment of a new, more equitable and more efficient international economic order. 104. However, in joining the consensus on the text, my delegation wishes to place on record its reserva- tions as regards paragraph 128 of the annex to resolu- tion 35/56 on the International Development Strategy for the Third United Nations Development Decade. More specifically, we cannot go along w!th the tar~et aimed at increasing the share of developing countries in the dead weight tonnage of the world merchant fleet to 20 per cent by 1990. While viewing favourably increased participation by developing. countries i.n international merchant shipping, we believe that this should be achieved through free international compe- tition. It is only thus that the transportation of goods at the lowest possible cost can be ensured. Keeping transportation costs as low as possible is one of the essential prerequisites for the expansion of world trade, which is in the interest of developing as well as industrialized countries. 105. I should like to conclude by expressing the satisfaction of my delegation at the adoption of the new International Development Strategy and by-giving the assurance that Greece will co-operate closely with all other countries to ensure its implementation.

My delegation is pleased tojoin the consensus on the adoption of the International Development Strategy for the 1980s. We believe that this is unde- 108. As emphasized by our representative in the Second Committee,11 this document seems to repre- sent undeniable progress as compared with the one adopted for the Second United Nations Development Decade both by the widening of the fields covered, in parti~ular, energy and finance, and by the definition of new guidelines and the fixing of numerous targets. 109. While recalling the statements made on behalf of the European Community and its member Sta~es by the representative of Luxembourg, my delegation wishes to state its position on the following points. 110. Concerning the increase in official develop- ment assistance and, more specifically, the achieve- ment of the 0.7 per cent target, the French Gov- ernment fully subscribes to the commitments in section Ill, paragraph 98, of the annex to resolution 35/56. It reaffirms its determination accordingly to increase its efforts in official development assistance. My delegation wishes, however, to make it clear that the figure of 1 per cent of GNP cannot, in our opinion, be considered as an agreed international target. In the light of its commitments, France appreciates the invitation extended to donor countries In para- graph 103 (h) of the same section to untie their assistance. Aware of the difficulties to which tied assistance can sometimes give rise, it is ready to examine, case by case, the action needed to remedy that situation. However, untying assistance should not sometimes lead to a slackening of the efforts of certain donor countries; the essential point must still be to increase the resources for assistance made available to the developing countries. Ill. In the area of finance, in order to create more favourable conditions for the development of the developing countries and for growth in the world economy in general, efforts to ensure that the interna- tional monetary system better meet the needs and the interests of the developing countries should be inten- sified through continuing reforms of the system. These should be rapidly pursued and implemented at the beginning of and throughout the Decade, for the benefit of the international community as a whole. 112. With regard to action aimed at improving the export earnings the developing countries derive from their raw materials, my delegation reaffirms the im- portance it attaches to the UNCTAD Integrated Pro- gramme for Commodities and to pursuing negotiations on commodity agreements. It considers that the other prolif~ration of nuclear weapons. 114. Those are the few comments my delegation wished to make in connection with the adoption of the new Strategy, to which we attach particular impor- tance. As was emphasized here by the French Minister for Foreign Affairs in his statement during the general debate: "Aims were defined, main lines mapped out and pledges made ... France, for its part, will uphold them firmly" [8th meeting, para. 198]. 115. With regard to draft resolution I on the problems of remnants of war, under agenda item 61 (k), [see A/35/592/Add.4, para. 46], France abstained in the vote on that text for the same reasons that had earlier guided its position both in the General Assembly and inthe Governing Council of UNEP. Indeed, we believe that those problems, which are not related to the environment, must be dealt with bilaterally. Further- more, those issues are covered by the Protocol on Prohibitions or Restrictions on the Use of Mines, Booby Traps and Other Devices, (Protocol 11), par- ticularly article 9,12 prepared at the United Nations Conference on Prohibitions or Restrictions of Use of Certain Conventional Weapons Which May Be Deemed to Be Excessively Injurious or to Have Indiscriminate Effects, held at Geneva from 10 to 28 September 1979 and from 15 September to 10 Oc- tober 1980. 119. However, the new Strategy is far from being 'the framework for action required in the difficult circumstances at present besetting the international community. The text certainly falls short of the expectations of the developing countries. Throughout the text there are too many constraints and ambiguities, the result of a long and difficult negotiating process. This is a reflection of the lack of vision and of political will on the part of the developed countries to face up to their responsibilities to the developing world, and of the inertia of an unjust and inequitable system of international economic relations. It is with deep concern and perplexity that we observe this negative attitude on the part ofthe developed countries, which is now compounded by many interpretative declarations or reservations. It has even been suggested that reference should be made to these reservations whenever the text of the Strategy is quoted in official United Nations documents. This would amount to perpetuating these reservations throughout the Decade. . 116. Neither can we accept the notion of responsi- bility contained in draft resolution A/C.2/35/L.24, which has no legal basis. Furthermore, it also seems to us questionable at the formal level that a General Assembly resolution should refer to a conclusion arrived at in meetings held outside the United Nations system. Finally, we cannot support the proposal for convening a conference under the auspices of the United Nations whose value, in view of the afore- mentioned considerations, does not seem to us to be altogether clear. 117. Mr. PEREZ GUERRERO (Venezuela) (inter- pretation from Spanish): On this solemn occasion, the Venezuelan delegation has the honour of expressing the views of the Group of 77. 118. At this session the General Assembly has had the singular responsibility of adopting the new Interna- tional Development Strategy and thus completing the task which had remained unfinished at the eleventh special session. Throughout the long preparatory process an attempt was made to avoid the short- comings of the previous Strategy which, in any event, fel! short of most of its objectives. We cannot say that 120. Yet the very conception of the Strategy offers us the opportunity to overcome these difficulties and to live up to what is required of us in the circum- stances, before hesitation and shortsightedness in the face of the grave world crisis lead to irreversible deterioration. Section IV of the text, concerning the review and appraisal of the Strategy, envisages and encourages timely recourse to future North-South negotiations to ensure the effective implementation of the Strategy. In particular, explicit reference is made to the global negotiations, as provided for in General Assembly resolution 34/138, which are the focus of the economic agenda of this session. Moreover, resolu- tion 34/138 explicitly provides in its operative part for the contribution of the global negotiations to the Strategy. 121. Finally, the commendable efforts of those who worked with such tenacity and commitment were 12 Document A/CONF.95/15 and Corr.2, annex I, appendix C. 124. In addition, we should not like to pass over in silence draft resolution VII adopted at this morning's meeting on restrictive business practices, even though, this is just the beginning of an effort in a field vitally important to all, but particularly to the developing countries, which are the main victims of such prac- tices. However, it is an important step forward and we trust that UNCTAD will receive the support necessary to ensure effective progress in the near future. While we have still not managed to secure juridically linked provisions in the agreement, never- theless the weight of justice and the clarity of the guidelines laid down should be sufficient at this stage to ensure the speedy solution of this thorny problem.

In joining in the consensus on the International Development Strategy for the Third United Nations Development Decade, as con- tained in the report of the Second Committee [A1351 592IAdd./], my delegation would like to give its interpretation of paragraph 101 of the Strategy, and in particular of the expression "donor countries", which means to my delegation the developed countries, for official development assistance, with its targets and time-frame, is the specific responsibility of that group of countries. 126. I should like this statement to be fully reflected in the records of this meeting.

The representa- tive of Venezuela, as Chairman of the Group of 77, has already expressed the position of that Group. My delegation wishes to stress a few points, as we consider the International Development Strategy for the Third United Nations Development Decade to be the most important subject before us. 132. However, this note of pessimism ironically strengthens our belief in the need to carry on the proposed round of global economic negotiations next year. In our view, it would be far more dangerous for the world community if the occasion for an early meeting on a global scale to examine once again, and reach agreement on, the issues of raw materials, energy, money and finance and trade and development were not to occur at all. 133. The discussions on the new International Development Strategy have shown that the positions of many countries on some of the fundamental issues have not changed. We had expected that the present realities in the world economic situation would have made it possible for those countries to make appro- priate adjustments in their national policies to accom- modate new trends and patterns of international economic relations. 134. It cannot be stated too often that it is time for the developed countries to give due recognition to the legitimate aspirations and concerns of the developing world. Those aspirations and concerns are vividly expressed in such fundamental issues as the need to restructure the existing world trading system, as well as the need to carry out reforms in the present system of international money and finance. Obviously, these reforms, if carried out, will have far-reaching and long-term effects on the structure of international economic relations and thus bring about the establish- ment of the new international economic order. 135. We in the developing world, who are more directly exposed to the problems of providing food, 157. The Brazilian delegation must therefore record its regret that in addition to the numerous subterfuges employed in the language of the text as "escape clauses", especially those to be found in the para- graphs dealing with the economic part, such a large number of reservations and interpretative declarations are made. These indicate not just a lack of political will on the part of many developed countries, but their real opposition to measures for restructuring the international economic system in order to ensure equity, justice and stability in world econornicrela- tions, which are unquestionably the fundamental objectives of the new international economic order. 158. While some developed countries pretend that they have nothing to do with either the causes or the solutions of the evils which permeate international 159. This position ofthe developed countries leads us to question the extent to which we effectively have at our disposal a strategy for the Third United Nations Development Decade. Is this just another document whose usefulness is exhausted by the action we have taken on it today? Moreover, the text shows a perilous tendency to include the development problems of the developing countries only within the overall picture of the problems of the world economy, placing them all on an equal footing in an undesirable and unacceptable equality, which my delegation therefore rejects, for it purports to eliminate the differentiated and preferential treatment that developing countries must be given. 160. Let us not f( get, finally, that whatever its shortcomings, the te.o.t must be seen as a whole, in both its economic and social aspects. The reserva- tions and declarations of the developed countries on the "economic" aspects of the Strategy should be duly weighed in the treatment of the social part of the International Development Strategy. As stated in section 11, paragraph 17, on goals and objectives, the Strategy is an integral part of the efforts of the interna- tional community to establish the new international economic order, which, in its turn, becomes a lever for measures to be implemented in conjunction with each other and not in bits and pieces. My delegation wishes to reaffirm this' understanding. °

The International Development Strategy for the Third United Nations Development Decade is now finally adopted. This is the result of prolonged prepara- tion, repeated discussions and patient negotiations in which all States participated and made a concerted effort to promote international economic co-operation for development. The Chinese delegation welcomes it and wishes to take this opportunity to express once again our deep appreciation to Ambassador Naik of Pakistan for the untiring efforts and positive contribu- tions he has made to the drafting of the new Strategy. 162. Although the new Strategy fails to meet the initial expectations, particularly the wishes and demands of the developing countries, and is yet to be enriched and improved through future negotiations on international economic co-operation, it represents. nevertheless, an improvement compared with the previous Strategy. It is an important document con- ducive to the" mobilization of international public opinion for the promotion of international economic co-operation for development. 163. The new Strategy adheres to the basic orienta- tion which the General Assembly set at the sixth special session, on the establishment of a new interna- tional economic order [see resolution 3202 (S- VIn. 165. One cannot fail to see that the implementation of 173. The PRESIDENT: Draft resolution V is entitled the new Strategy remains an arduous task in front of "United Nations Development Programme". The us, which requires sustained efforts from all sides. Second Committee adopted draft resolution V without It is regrettable that certain developed countries have a vote. May I take it that the General Assembly expressed reservations on key provisions on develop- wishes to adopt that draft resolution? ment assistance and even refused to assume their Draft resolution V was adopted (resolution 35/83). responsibilities. It is our view that all developed coun- tries, irrespective of their economic systems, should 174. The PRESIDENT: We come now to the draft assume their responsibilities in the implementation of decisions recommended by the Second Committee in the new Development Strategy. We hope that the paragraph 43 of its report. developed countries concerned will give serious 175. Draft decision I is entitled "'Reports and deci- thought to the views expressed by the developing sions relating to operational activities for develop- countries in the course of the formulation of the rnent". The Committee adopted it without a vote. May Strategy and at today's plenary meeting, and, in I consider that the Assembly also adopts draft accordance with the requirements of the Strategy, decision I? fulfil their obligations in its actual implementation and increase their assistance to developing countries Draft decision I was adopted (decision 35/42 J). on a continuous basis, so as to ensure the attainment 176. The PRESIDENT: Draft decision 11 is entitled of the objectives set in the new Strategy. "United Nations Capital Development Fund". The 166. The tense and turbulent world situation in the Second Committee adopted it without a vote. May I 1980s will make still heavier our responsibility in consider that the Assembly wishes to do likewise? carrying out the Strategy. But, as always, the advance- Draft decision if \l'as adopted tdccision 35/422). ment of any new cause is made by removing obsta- cles and resistance. It is our belief that as long as we adhere to the objective of the new Strategy and actively contribute our due share to its implementation it will play its appropriate role in promoting the growth of the international economy, and the development of developing countries in particular.

The Assembly will now consider the report of the Second Commitee on agenda item 62, entitled "Operational activities for develop- ment" [A/35/628]. 168. We shall now take decisions on the five draft resolutions and the two draft decisions recommended by the Committee in paragraphs 42 and 43 of its report. 169. Draft resolution I is entitled "United Nations Children's Fund". The Committee adopted this draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to do likewise?

Draft resolution 11 is entitled "'Role of qualified national personnel in the social and economic development of developing countries". The Second Committee adopted this draft resolution without a vote. May I take it that the General Assembly wishes to do likewise?

The Assembly will now consider the report of the Second Committee on agenda item 64, entitled "Special economic and disaster relief assistance" [A/35/663]. 178. The Assembly will take action on the draft resolutions and the draft decision recommended by the Committee in paragraphs III and 112 of that report. 179. Draft resolution I is entitled "'Assistance' to Nicaragua". The Committee adopted that draft resolu- tion without a vote. May I consider that the General Assembly also adopts draft resolution I? Draft resolution 1 \l'lIS adopted (resolution 35/84).

Draft resolution 11 is entitled "'Assistance for the reconstruction and development of Lebanon". The Second Committee adopted it without a vote. May I consider that the Assembly also adopts draft resolution I1?

Draft resolution III is entitled "Implementation of the medium-term and long-term n.covery and rehabilitation programme in the Sudano- Sahelian region". The Second Committee adopted it

Now we turn to draft resolu- tion V, entitied ••Special economic assistance to Benin". The report of the Fifth Committee on the administrative and financial implications of that draft resolution is contained in document A/35/683. The Second Committee adopted that draft resolution without a vote. May I consider that the Assembly also adopts draft resolution V? Draft resolution J.- was tu/opted (resolution 35/88). 184. The PRESIDENT: Draft resolution VI is entitled "Assistance to Djibouti". The Second Committee adopted that draft resolution without a vote. May I consider that the Assembly also adopts draft resolu- tion VI? Draft resolution VI was adopted (resolution 35/89).

Now we turn to draft resolution VII. This draft resolution is entitled"Assis- tance to the drought-stricken areas in Djibouti, Somalia, the Sudan and Uganda". The Second Com- mittee adopted that draft resolution without a vote. May I consider that the Assembly also adopts draft resolution VII?

Draft resolution VIII is entitled "Assistance to the drought-stricken areas of Ethiopia". The Second Committee adopted that draft resolution without a vote. May J consider that the General Assembly also adopts it? Draft resoi ·1 Vlll was adopted (resolution 35/91).

Draft resolutions IX A and B are entitled "Assistance to Chad". The Second Committee adopted those draft resolutions without a vote. May I consider that the General Assembly also adopts them? Draft resolutions IX A and B were adopted (resolu- tions 35/(l'? A and B).

Draft resolution X is entitled "Assistance to Sao Tome and Principe". The Second Committee adopted that draft resolution without a vote. May I consider that the General Assembly also adopts it?

Draft resolution XI is entitled "Assistance to Zambia". The Second Committee adopted that draft resolution without a vote. May I consider that the General Assembly also adopts it? mittee adopted that draft resolution without a vote. May I consider that the General Assembly also adopts it? Draft resolution X III was adopted(resolution 35/96). 192. The PRESIDENT: Draft resolution XIV is entitled"Assistance to the Comoros". The Second Committee adopted that draft resolution without a vote. May I consider that the General Assembly also adopts it? Draft resolution XIV H'as m/opted(resolution 35/97). 193. The PRESIDENT: Draft resolution XV is entitled" Assistance to Botswana". The Second Com- mittee adopted that draft resolution without a vote. May I consider that the General Assembly also adopts it? Draft resolution XV H'as tu/opted (resolution 35/98). 194. The PRESIDENT: Draft resolution XVI is entitled "Assistance to Mozambique": The Second Committee adopted that draft resolution without a vote. May I consider that the General Assembly also adopts it? Draft resolution XVlwas tu/opted (resolution 35/99). 195. The PRESIDENT: Draft resolution XVII is entitled" Assistance to Zimbabwe". The report of the Fifth Committee on the administrative and financial implications of that draft resolution is contained in document A/35/683. The Second Committee adopted draft resolution XVII without a vote. May I consider that the General Assembly also adopts it? Draft resolution XVII was tu/opted (resolution 35/100). 196. The PRESIDENT: Draft resolution XVIII is entitled "Assistance to Saint Lucia". The report of the Fifth Committee on the administrative and financial implications of that draft resolution is contained in document A/35/683. The second Committee adopted draft resolution XVIII without a vote. May I consider that the General Assembly also adopts it? Draft resolution ,\ VIII H'as adopted (resolution 35/101).

Draft resolution XIX is entitled "Assistance to Dominica". The Second Com- mittee adopted that draft resolution without a vote. May I consider that the General Assembly also adopts it? Dra t resolution XIX was tu/opted (resolution 35/102).

Draft resolution XX is entitled" Assistance to Uganda". The Second Com- mittee adopted that draft res il.:ion without a vote. May I consider that the (. «era! Assembly also adopts it? 212. The draft resolutions just adopted are of inestimable importance for my country. They come at the right time and are more than a hopeful sign, considering the present situation in Chad. The grave events which continue to occur both in the capital and in the interior of the country have, in fact, destroyed the whole economic and social infrastructure of Chad. The national economy is in a catastrophic state. Agriculture and animal husbandry, which are the two key sectors of the national economy, are completely disorganized. The means of communication are totally destroyed. Public health services no longer exist and the hospitals and dispensaries, which were already unbelievably dilapidated, have been totally destroyed by shells. The educational system has broken down. Most university and secondary and primary education establishments have been closed for two years. Those

We have asked to speak to explain our vote with respect to draft resolution XXIII [ibid.], which has just been adopted by the General Assembly. 218. The delegation of the Sudan supported that draft resolution which, in our view, has authorized the Economic and Social Counc.l to consider at its first regularsession in 1981 the recommendations of the Committee for Development Planning on the coun- tries mentioned in the draft resolution and, accordingly, to add any of those countries to the list of the least developed countries, on the basis of existing criteria and the more recent data relating to the countries in question. This, in our view, is the main task that the Committee for Development Planning is requested to carry out in the coming few weeks or months before the spring session Council.

May I now invite members of the Assembly to turn their attention to part 11 of , the report of the Second Committee on agenda item 12 [A/35/545/Add./] I take it that the General Assembly takes note of that part of the report. 219. Further, our interpretation of operative para- graph 2, which reads: "Decides that this exercise should be without prejudice to any future over-aJl review of the list of the least developed countries which "'lY be authorized dt a later date by the General 1- sembly in accordance with established procedures" 222. The Assembly will now take a decision on the four draft resolutions recommended by the Second Committee in paragraph 25 of its report. 223. Draft resolution I is entitled "Transport and Communications Decade in Africa". The report of the Fifth Committee on the administrative and financial implications of that draft resolution is contained in document A/35/577. The Second Committee adopted draft resolution I without a vote. May I consider that it is the wish of the General Assembly to adopt draft resolution I?

This statement refers to the decision contained in 233. In continuing efforts to achieve agreement on this important issue, we hope for the participation of al.l St~tes which share our perception of the great distortions and costs to the commercial, social and political fabric of countries caused where bribery and extortion occur.

We shall first consider agenda item 16(a) concerning the election of 15 mem- bers of the Industriai Development Board to replace those members whose term of office expires on 31 De- cember 1980. 235. The 15 outgoing members are: Brazil, Bulgaria, Democratic Yemen, France, German Democratic Republic, India, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Sierra Leone, Tunisia and United States of America. Those members are eligible for immediate re-election. 14 See Department of State Bulletin, vol. 80. No. 2041. August 1980. p. 11, para. 33. 241. The General Assembly will now consider agenda item 16 (b) concerning election of J.9 members of the Governing Council of UNEP to replace those members whose term of office expires on 31 December 1980. 242.. The 19 outgoing members are: Algeria, Austria, Brazil, Colombia, Denmark, Germany, Federal Republic of, Iran, Japan, Kenya, Libyan Arab Jarna- hiriya, Malaysia, Netherlands, Pakistan, Romania, Tunisia, Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, United States of America, Venezuela and Zaire. Those mem- bers are eligible for immediate re-election. 243. I should like to remind members that after 1 January 1981 the following States will still be membe~s of the Governi.ng Council: Argentina, Austral~a, Bangladesh, Belgium, Botswana, Bulgaria, Burundi, Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic, Chile, China, Ethiopia, France, Gabon, German Democratic Republic, Guinea, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Italy, Kuwait, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritania, Mexico, New Zealand, Panama, Peru, Saudi Arabia, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Sweden, Thailand, Trinidad and

The result of the voting is as follows: Number of ballot papers: 149 Number of invalid ballots: 0 Number of valid ballots: 149 Abstentions: 3 Number of members voting: 146 Required majority: 74 Number of votes obtained: France 114 Italy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 110 Norway........................... 105 Netherlands. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Having obtained the required majority, France, Italy and Norway have been elected members of the World Food Council for a period of three years beginning 1 January 1981. Brazil, India, Japan, Morocco, the Philippines, 270. Our discussions in the General Assembly on the Senegal and the United Republic of Cameroon were convening of a conference on the peaceful applica- elected members ofthe Committee for Programme and tion of nuclear energy were accompanied by a number Co-ordination for a three-year term beginning on of important developments in other forums. I refer to / January /98/ (decision 35/3/5). the International Nuclear Fuel Cycle Evaluation, to the 262. The PRESIDENT: I should like to congratulate second Review Conference of the Parties to the those States which have just been elected members of Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons the Committee for Programme and Co-ordination. and to the establishment and first meeting of the IAEA Committee on Assurances of Supply. In my 263. We shall now consider agenda item 16 (e) con- delegation's view it is quite obvious that the develop- cerning the election of the members of the Board of ments in the International Nuclear Fuel Cycle Evalua- Governors of the United Nations Special Fund for tion and during the second Review Conference of the Land-Locked Developing Countries. Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of 264. Since no candidate has been put forward by the Nuclear Weapons are highly relevant to the conference regional groups, I suggest that the Assembly decide that is envisaged and, therefore, that we would be well to defer this election to its thirty-sixth session. If I advised to attach great importance to these develop- hear no objection, I shall take it that that is the wish ments in preparing for that conference. of the Assembly. 271. On both occasions a great number of interesting It It'as so decided (decision 35/3/6). observations and recommendations were made with regard to improving international co-operation in the peaceful application ofnuclear energy and to improving the present in the peaceful application ofnuclear energy and tc improving the present international non- proliferation system. My Government wishes that these observations and recommendations, which at present are under further investigation in the IAEA Committee on Assurances of Supply, may lead to tangible results in the coming years. In this connexion, the Netherlands attaches particular importance to the early establishment of a system for the international storage of plutonium in accordance with article XII.A.5 of the IAEA statute. A credible plutonium storage system should, in our opinion, stimulate substantial relaxation of unilateral export conditions with respect to the use of plutonium. Such a system would thus form a basic element of a new consensus in the field of international relations with respect to the use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. 272. I have already mentioned the existence of dif- ferent views with respect to the exact scope and timing of the planned conference, views reflecting also dif- ferent interests. But, I submit, there is one overriding interest common to us all, to wit, the necessity of

The members will recall that at its 53rd meeting the Assembly postponed its deci- sion on draft resolution A/35/L.II. Since then, a revised version of the draft resolution has been issued [A/35/L.II/Rev./ and Add./]. 266. I now put before the Assembly draft resolution A/35/L.II/Rev.l and Add.I. The report of the Fifth Committee on the administrative and financial implica- tions of that draft resolution is contained in document A/35/711. May I take it that the Assembly wishes to adopt that draft resolution? Draft resolution It'as adopted (resolution 35///2). 267. The PRESIDENT: I shall now call on those representatives who wish to explain their positions. * Resumed from the 53rd meeting.

In the view of the delegation of Finland, the revised draft resolution just adopted marks on many points a significant im- provement in cornj ison with the initial version. In particular, we are . .eased that the draft resolution now adopted spells iut the role of IAEA and that it recognizes the impc rtance of the work of the Com- mittee on Assurances of Supply. Being the main international body responsible for both the promotional and regulatory aspects of the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, IAEA should, as is both desirable and natural, be closely involved in the conference and in its preparations. 274. Finland sees the forthcoming United Nations conference in the light of two inherently interlinked objectives, which should be pursued concurrently and which are manifested in the statute of IAEA, as also in the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons [resolution 2373 (XXI/) annex]. First, international co-operation in the transfer of nuclear materials, equipment and technology for eco- nomic and social development should be promoted. Secondly, the non-proliferation regime should be strengthened. As to the latter point, the elimination of the dangers of proliferation would serve to remove obstacles to enhanced international economic co- operation in the field of the peaceful use of the atom. 275. It is in that light that we interpret the reference in the draft resolution to resolution 32/50 adopted three years ago. As we pointed out at the time of its adoption, we considered resolution 32/50 to be a companion piece to resolution 32/87 F dealing with non-proliferation. 276. We regret that the draft resolution just adopted does not contain any explicit language on the non- proliferation of nuclear weapons. However, we under- stand that implicitly, by way of reference to resolu- tion 32/50 and the Final Document of the Tenth Special Session of the General Assembly Devoted to Disarmament, non-proliferation considerations will be part and parcel of the deliberations relating to the conference.

I wish to make a brief comment on Canada's vote on draft resolution A/35/L.ll/Rev.l. Canada, as a realiable supplier of nuclear material and exporter of a proven and unique reactor technology, is vitally interested in promoting the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. At the same time, we have an equally vital interest in promoting the evolution ofan effective international non-proliferation regime which will ensure that nuclear energy is used only for peaceful purposes. Canada welcomed 278. We have joined the consensus supporting this draft resolution in the same spirit of co-operation reflected in the drafting of its final text. 279. Mr. TRAUTWEIN (Federal Republic of Germany): On behalf of my delegation, I should like to express my satisfaction at the fact that today, after intensive and constructive work, we have been able to adopt by consensus resolution 35/112 dealing with the important question of international co- operation in the field of the peaceful use of nuclear energy. 280. I should also like to take this opportunity to say a few words on the policy pursued by the Federal Republic of Germany in the field of the peaceful use of nuclear energy and non-proliferation. In my Government's view, nuclear energy used for peaceful purposes is for many countries, including third world States, an important means of safeguarding their social and economic progress. My Government has been guided by that outlook in its international co- operation, in which it has attached particular impor- tance to third world countries. 281. Misuse of nuclear energy, however, can result in potential for producing nuclear weapons. The Federal Republic of Germany is in agreement with all responsible States that such misuse must be countered and prevented by every possible means. It holds the view that national nuclear energy programmes must accord with an effective and comprehensive non- proliferation policy. It therefore welcomes the func- tions fulfilled in that connexion by IAEA. 282. All nations should have access to the peaceful use of nuclear· energy. However, that requires all States to agree that the responsibility for incorporating the peaceful use of nuclear energy into an effective and credible non-proliferation regime is indivisible. My country has acted in accordance with that precept in shaping its practical international co-operation in this field. It has pursued a policy based on the view that co-operation as an expression of the world-wide maintenance of peace is only likely to be successful if the co-operating parties are prepared to shoulder equal responsibility. That applies particularly to the peaceful use of nuclear energy and non-proliferation. 283. My Government hopes that this United Nations conference will be integrated into the existing interna- tional consultative framework so that it can develop further the questions connected with the peaceful use of nuclear energy and non-proliferation, both on a non-discriminatory basis and with due regard for the principle that equal rights entail equal obligations. 284. The Federal Republic of Germany will render a constructive contribution to the work to be carried out before and during the conference. The meeting rose at 7./5 p.m.