small, but dispersed, land masses with consequent difficulties in communication and transport; great isolation and distance from markets; and inadequate infrastructure and services. In addition, the constant possibility of ravage from natural disasters called for special measures to enable sustainable development. She mentioned that tropical storms such as cyclone "Ofa" could reverse decades of development efforts and could set back the entire country for many years. She said that in the South Pacific it had been recognized that problems could be better dealt with on a regional basis. Examples were the Forum Shipping Line, the Forum Fisheries Agencies, the South Pacific Bureau for Economic Co-operation (SPEC), the South Pacific Regional Trade and Economic Co-operation Agreement (SPARTECA), and the South Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP). She added that the documentation at the Meeting was comprehensive. However, more emphasis could have been given to human resources development. In concluding, she mentioned the importance of UNCTAD's leadership in arranging the meeting and appreciated the support of the donor community as that partnership was critical to the maximization of Samoa's economic potential. 28. The representative of Mauritius noted that despite the disclaimer in UNCTAD's document before the Meeting entitled "Issues for consideration", his Government wished to reiterate its claim over some of the islands in the Indian Ocean. He further pointed out that the IDCs should not put emphasis on expensive technologies. However, he emphasized the need for regional co-operation, particularly in the area of trade among the IDCs. He also underlined the need to establish a unit within the United Nations Secretariat to deal with the problems of IDCs in order to ensure better communications about the specific needs and problems of IDCs. 29. The representative of Bangladesh said that his country was deeply concerned and committed to the situation of IDCs, and that he was convinced 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the challenges faced by small island developing countries (IDCs) in terms of their geographical isolation, infrastructure, and natural disaster risks. It also mentions the importance of regional cooperation, human resources development, and international support for sustainable development. These themes suggest that the text is primarily focused on economic development and international cooperation.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade, Transport and communication