-14-implications, expressing concern that economic integration in Western Europe and North America might threaten developing countries in the form of lessened foreign direct investment flows to the latter. Other delegations remarked that the single market programme in Europe would help developing countries in the form of increased foreign direct investment by European transnational corporations, which would become more internationally competitive in the world economy. The same delegations pointed out that the European Economic Community would be in a position to play a stronger international role, contributing to overall world prosperity and greate~ support for developing countries and that trade liberalization was a key success factor in the single market programme. One representative pointed out that the United States-Canada Free Trade Agreement did not create any new barriers to foreign direct investment and was aimed at creating a more open environment for foreign direct investment. Another delegation underlined the fact that the 1992 programme in Europe was a fundamental factor in determining the level of foreign direct investment into neighbouring developing countries. 13. Some delegations, noting the problematic experience of regional economic integration in developing countries, stated that it was not possible to compare them with similar efforts in developed countries either in scope or purpose. It was stated that the reason for that was that developing countries did not have sufficient purchasing power necessary to make their regional economic integration programmes a success. It was also noted that regional economic integration was not an end in itself, but a way for countries to grow together. It was not surprising that integration schemes among developing countries had stagnated, given the fact that the need for servicing compelled them to trade with developed market economies rather than with their regional partners. One delegation pointed out th~t the 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the implications of economic integration in Western Europe and North America on developing countries, highlighting concerns about foreign direct investment flows and the potential benefits of increased competitiveness and trade liberalization. The delegations also touch on the differences between regional economic integration in developed and developing countries, citing issues with purchasing power and trade patterns.

**Category**
International trade, Economic development