country, it is targeted for aid simultaneously by a number of aid donors. It has been evidenced that such a simplistic approach can have perverse results, with the so-called target countries being granted more aid than they can absorb. That leads to wastage and a tying-up of funds that could otherwise have been used in another country, or to funds not being disbursed at all, since the recipient country is incapable of utilizing them. Even if the funds are not disbursed, the donor countries can claim that they have made provision in their budget for aid. On paper, at least, consciences are at ease. Of great concern to us is the fact that no special oonsideration is given to small island States, although their special needs have been recognized by a number of international organizations, including the United Nations. As far as aid is concerned, the comtnal denominator used is the gross national product. In the case of island States, whose gross national products are artificially inflated, that more often than not excludes them from aid programmes. The practice of targeting aid to low-income countries, while understandable, does not do iustice to the development efforts of small island States. Nor does it allow them to sustain their present level of development and growth. The case of my own country illustrates that of other small island States. Although Seychelles is vulnerable to a number of economic pressures common to most larqer, more populous countries, smallness does impose additional burdens. Economically sustainable development is highly vulnerable to pressures arisinq from territorial and demgraphic smallness, which are compounded tJII Seychelles' JlB/8 A/S-18/PV.8 34-35 (Mrs. de St. Jorre, Seychelles) qeoqraphically remote location and the dispersion of population and resources amonq numerous islands. Diseconomies of small scale inhibit the expansion of the industrial base. That results in a heavy dependence on imports, both for investment and 
**Analysis**
The text primarily discusses the challenges faced by small island states in accessing and utilizing aid, highlighting the issues with the current aid distribution system and the need for special consideration. The focus is on the economic development and sustainability of these states, with specific mention of the difficulties they face due to their small size and remote location.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade