To release the financial neans needed to solve the gigantic tasks before us we wish nothing more ardently than to turn swords into ploughshares. This, of course, can be done only to the extent to which the international process of disarmament, which we wish to accelerate wherever possible, progresses. Most of these problems are also of concern to our country. It is precisely for this reason that we harbour a great sense of understanding of and solidarity with the nations of the third world. We want to work towards enabling the developing countries to get even closer to the level of development of the industrialized countries, without repeating their mistakes. We extend our hands to all those who together with us are on the road to a democratic, free and just society. The PRESIDENT: In accordance with the decision taken by the General Assembly at its 1st plenai:y meeting on 23 April 1990, I now call on the Director-General of the International Labour Organisation, Mr. Michel Hansenne. Mr. HANSENNE (International Labour Organisation (ILO)) (interpretation from French): It is true that the objectives of the special session are ambitious. To lay the foundations of real international economic co-operation, enabling each nation fully to play its role in the renewed growth of the world economy and to ensure the equitable distribution of the benefits of that recovery among nations and within nations 7 those are the enormous challenges which the international community has been tryinq to meet for some years, with very relative success. JP/ASW A/S-18/PV.2 172 (Mr. Hansenne, ILO) I do not wish to dwell today on a diagnosis of the past. The balance sheet is only too familiar, and it is dangerously negative. What I wonder is whether today, in 1990, the conditions exist to ensure more 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the need for international cooperation to achieve economic development, disarmament, and social justice. It mentions the importance of accelerating disarmament, promoting economic growth, and ensuring equitable distribution of benefits. The text also touches on the concept of "turning swords into ploughshares", which suggests a focus on peaceful development and sustainable growth.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade, Employment