unprecedented growth. Indeed, a number effectively graduated from developing to BHS/JK A/S-18/PV. 2 7 (Mr. Collins, Ireland) developed status. We look forward to the positive input of these countries, both materially and intellectually, to the development process in the 1990s. We expect that the lessons they have to offer regarding the economic, social and other factors required for development will be of benefit to us all. In addition, for the two largest developing countries, the period was one of unprecedented growth in living standards for their populations. At the same time, for many developing countries, ensuring that the benefits of economic growth and development were equitably shared by all sections of society emerqed as an important issue. However, for other developing countries the experience of the decade was less positive. In particular, for a number of countries the emergence of the debt crisis in the 19 80s cons ti tu ted an obstacle to economic growth. For some, the servicing of their external debt couid only be accomplished by a significant compression of imports and a large reduction in investment in their economies. Their efforts to meet debt-service commitments seriously compromised their prospects for economic growth and develoment. It was increasingly recognized that innovative approaches would be required to help find solutions to the problems faced by individual countries. The international financial ins ti tu tions, proceeding on a case-by-case basis, continue to have the central role in these efforts. At the same time, action taken by developed countries in recent years has contributed to a reduction of the difficulties caused by the debt burdens of many developing countries. For the least developed countries, despite certain welcome exceptions, the experience of the decade was very largely negative. In addition to serious debt-service difficulties, many remain vulnerable to long-term adverse trends in 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the economic development of developing countries, highlighting the challenges they faced in the 1980s, such as debt crises and difficulties in sharing the benefits of economic growth. It also mentions the role of international financial institutions and developed countries in addressing these issues. The text does not mention natural resources, environment, agriculture, forestry, fishing, industry, transport, communication, health, education, employment, humanitarian aid, or culture, but rather focuses on economic development and international cooperation.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade