economic conditions resulting from external d:!bt, as well as the legitimate right of every developing na tioo to chart its own economic policy, to allocate its resources to the investment and consumption sectors, and to safeguard its national interests and sovereignty. To handle the various aspects of the current economic crisis and redress the imbalance in international relations, it is first and foremost necessary to foster North-South co-operation and respect for the rules that govern it. In this reqard we must stress the responsibility of the developed countries towards the developing world that stems from the interdependence of the international economy. The developed nations have persisted long enough in their negative attitudes, declining to respond fairly and objectively to the needs of developing countries. It is not surprising, then, that the world economy, which is built on a system of inequality, injustice and exploitation, continues to be detrimental to growth and development in the developing world. On the other hand, the critical link between disarmament and development cannot be underestimated. Success in bringing about nuclear disarmament and designating zones free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction is sure to reduce tensions, release resources and generate the energy needed to sustain eeonomic a:nd social development programmes to enhance economic and social stabili tv. Therefore, we appeal once again for imPlementation of the Plan of Action adopted by the International Conference on the Relationship between Disarmament and Development, held in New York in 1987. Further efforts should be \ BCT/jl A/S-18/PV.6 174 (Mr. El-Fattal, Syrian Arab Republic) made to divert all kinds of economic resources released through disarmament for the implementation of programmes of economic and social chvelopment. In thiLs regard, the persistence of Israeli policies and practices in the occupied Palestinian territories, the Golan Heights and the other occupied Arab 
**Analysis**
The text primarily discusses the relationship between economic development and international relations, highlighting the need for cooperation and respect for rules governing international trade and disarmament. It emphasizes the responsibility of developed countries towards developing nations and the importance of diverting economic resources towards development programs. The text also touches on the impact of Israeli policies on the occupied Palestinian territories.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade