countries, is being convened at a time of profound and far-reaching changes in the international arena that will have repercussions oo the international situation as a whole and, in particular, on development and economic issues. With the increasingly palpable signs of detente as manifested in the relaxation of tensions and the improvement of relations between East and West, there are strong indications among all peoples of the world that co-operation, trust and the sense of responsibility will emerge as the norms in efforts to revitalize development and economic growth and co-operation, thereby enhancing the foundations of international peace and security. We hope all these developments will lead to the formulation of international economic relations that will Pronote the developing countries' efforts in their aspiration to an equitable international economic order, for the benefit of all peoples, without discrimination. The special session is being held at a critical time. The economic crisis of developing countries has seen unPrecedented deterioration that has aggravated the suffering of the people of those countries, who have long worked to ward off the evils of povertv, deprivation and hunger. That crisis is, by the acknowledgement BM/35 A/S-18/PV. 6 170 (Mr. El-Fattal, Syrian Arab Republic) of all, tM product of an international economic system set up on unfair foundations. It is our hope that this important special session will aqree on practical measures to lay tM foundations for a balanced system of economic co-operation with the aim of bringinq about a just and universal international economic order. BCT/jl A/S-18/PV. 6 171 (Mr~ El-Fattal; Syrian Arab Republic) In fact, the present international economic crisis is fundamentally a reflection of the unbalanced structure of the world economy and of the injustice of ongoing economic relations, especially between North and South. In recent decades these negative phenomena have encouraged some developed countries to take advantage 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the international economic situation, the struggles of developing countries, and the need for a just and universal international economic order. It highlights the imbalance of the world economy, the injustice of ongoing economic relations, and the need for cooperation and trust. These themes suggest that the text is primarily focused on economic issues.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade