conflicts in a number of countries have left us with pain and want in friqhtful proportions. The prospects for qrowth for the req ion are doubtful. Some Predictions suqqest that the levels of well-beinq achieved in 1970 will not be reqained until the end of this century, and this will be possible only if the international community supports our reqional efforts. The peoples of the isthmus, led by their Presidents, have made strides in a positive and encouraqinq way in the process of brinqinq peace and democracy, which will be consolidated and prove lastinq only if our countries manaqe to rebuild their economies and renew their development. Nations the world over must share the responsibility for helpinq the people of our req ion realize their aspirations. This is why we look hopefully to the promises made by the international community which are takinq shape in a number of initiatives. In the first place, the General Assembly adopted the special plan for economic co-operation in Central America, which constitutes a framework for quidinq effective co-operation in this realm. What this plan amounts to for the co-operatinq community is a beacon to quide them, and for Central America it is a liqht that offers hope. The first fruits are beinq harvested in the devisinq of development projects and the prospects for tanqible commitments, which is why it is indispensable that this plan should be extended for an additional three-year per iod JSM/ j 1 A/S- 18/PV. 9 27 (Mr. Nieto, Costa Rica ) Secondly, we have entered into a variety of accords with the European Economic Community (EEC) to step up its technical and financial co-operation with countries in our region. At the last meeting held at Dublin, Ireland, the Ministers of the Community expressed their firm determination to spur forward in the economic 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the economic and development challenges faced by countries in Central America, specifically the need for international support to rebuild their economies and achieve economic growth. It also mentions specific initiatives and agreements aimed at promoting economic cooperation and development in the region. These themes suggest that the text is primarily focused on economic development, with some mention of international relations.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade