rivalry were acted out by proxy in regional conflicts. The combination of regional and international factors caused many conflicts, with indescribable suffering for civilians, some of whom had to abandon their homes, with no choice but to eke out a precarious existence, barely surviving, crowded together in refugee camps. I am particularly concerned about the situation in the Horn of Africa, where a very serious threat of starvation faces several million persons. The civil war, BCf/gt A/S-18/PV. 3 53 (Mrs. Landry, Canada) greatly exacerbated by external interference, has reached the stage where it not only deeply disrupts the local economy, above all agricultural production, but also places at risk the delivery of food supplies to the areas of conflict where the local populations, already suffering from drought, are today threatened by famine. The relaxation of political tensions and of the military rivalry between the major world Powers has created a tremendous momentum for solving regional conflicts and could thus provide the occasion for significant reductions in military spending. We must seize this opportunity. (spoke in English) Development and revitalization of growth depend on our putting the priority on appropirate domestic policies and programmes that provide for the pluralistic development of the economy and the society. It depends also on the development of institutions and the improvement of human resources and capacities in order to allow people the opportunity to invest, to become entrepreneurs and to overcome their own problems. Canada believes its fundamental interests and those of all nations can best be realized through international co-operation and effective multilateral institutions. We are committed to the United Nations playing a positive and construct.ive role in this process. We hope this special session is a harbinger of a more constructive dialogue which will leave behind old and sterile debates. We all share responsibility for strengthening international economic 
**Analysis**
The text primarily focuses on the issues of international conflict, humanitarian crisis, and economic development. It mentions specific regions, such as the Horn of Africa, and highlights the importance of international cooperation and multilateral institutions to address these challenges. The text also touches on the themes of poverty, famine, and economic growth, which are all interconnected.

**Category**
Economic development, Humanitarian aid and relief