nominaL and real terms since L982, but tbe long-term prospect is for the firming of market conditions and the gradual increase in oil prices after the end of thedecade. The weakening of oil prices has not only adversely affected energyexploration and development world-wide, lncluding research and developnent of new and renewable sources of energyi it has also, together with the recession in thedeveloped market econonies in recent years, adversely affected bilateral andmultilateral financial and technical assistance for the exploration and developmentof energy resources in developing countries. Looking further into the future,however, it has been stated that, based on recent and prospective trends in oilexploration, reserve additions, and the cost of finding new oil reserves, oilproduction in the non-OPEC countries will likely increase at a considerabLy slowerrate than in the past. 38l rt is even felt that North America is producing oil atits naximum capacity and that, despite expected discoveries, indigenous supplies may be about to decline significantly. Projections of North Sea production alsoindicate that peak conditions may be reached in the next few years. fn addition totfte intrinsic need for developing countries to develop their energy resourees toneet their growing energy reguirements, the prospect of slowing or declining oilproduct,ion in some of the countries currently producing oil underscores the needfor the international conmunity to sustain its interest in the exploration and development of energy resourees in developing countries. Failure to do so mayresult in serious energy problems in the next decade.
**Analysis**
The text primarily discusses the prospects of oil prices and production, its impact on energy exploration and development, and the need for international cooperation to ensure energy security. It does not mention any specific economic development strategies, nor does it discuss agriculture, forestry, or fishing. The text is more focused on the energy sector and its implications on the global economy.

**Category**
Natural resources and environment, Economic development