communication systems. 233. While most African countries would continue to depend on development aid, there was a need to develop trade and business co-operation of all types to enable them to integrate into the international division of labour process. He therefore urged African countries to maintain and develop their trade through GATT, which would provide the best chance of promoting their interests vis-a-vis stronger trading partners. 234. The observer for India informed the Conference that in response to the critical food situation in Africa, his Government had donated 100,000 tons of wheat through the World Food Programme and was considering bilateral technical co-operation with African countries in the fields of water and soil management. He informed the Conference of the efforts of the Co­ ordinating Bureau of the Non-Aligned Countries, which had met in New Delhi recently, in mobilizing and sensitizing its members and the international community to the plight of Africa. 235. drew attention to his Government's collaboration with ECA in small-scale industrial projects in Africa, for which his country had suitable technology, and informed the Conference of the activities of the - 59 - National Small Industries Corporation and the National Research and Development Corporation, which were active in several African countries and promised further co-operation with ECA in those fields, 236. The representative of Italy in his capacity as observer for the Council of the European Communities stated that at its meeting in Dublin in December 1984 the Council had launched an emergency programme providing for the supply of 1,200,000 tons of cereals or the equivalent to seven or eight of the most affected African countries, and of measures to ensure that supplies reached the people affected. In the event, as much as 1,500,000 tons had been delivered under the normal food aid programmes of 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the economic and humanitarian situation in Africa, with a focus on trade, development aid, and food security. It mentions specific initiatives and programs aimed at providing aid and promoting economic cooperation, which suggests that economic development and humanitarian aid are key themes.

**Category**
Economic development, Humanitarian aid and relief