countries have either suspended debt servicing and/or are in arrears. This is a direct outcome of the present economic climate, which is characterized by recession, instability in exchange rates, decline in commodity prices, adverse flow ·of resources and protectionist measures. RH/11 A/S-18/PV.4 47 (Mr. Alkhader, Yemen) The adoption of a narrow-minded or patchy approach has proved ineffective and incapable of solving the problem. In our opinion a global policy must be pursued, with the participation of creditors and debtors, together with international financial institutions. This approach should be based on the sharing of responsibility and on respect for each country's right to chart its own economic policies. The external debt problem is one aspect of the bad performance of the world economy. The problem has acquired serious political dimensions that require developed countries, along with international financial institutions, to helP debtors take measures to ease their debt burden. In this regard my delegation welcomes the latest initiatives aimed at reducing outstanding debts and the interest on them. The absence of fair economic relations and the world economic crisis have impeded the capacity of developing countries to participate in international trade. Their products encounter unstable markets and constantly declining prices, as well as lack of access to the markets of developed countries. They also run up against protectionist measures, unfair competition and the strong role of transnationals in price determination. Consequently developing countries are being marginalized in the world economy and withheld from participating in international trade, which has further increased the gap between developed and developing countries. We must therefore restore confidence in international trade so as to take objectively into account the interests of developing and developed countries alike in accordance with agreed rules. Another aim should be to stimulate sustainable development within the framework of a multilateral trade system. 
**Analysis**
The text primarily discusses the external debt problem of developing countries, its impact on their ability to participate in international trade, and the need for a global policy to address this issue. It highlights the unfair economic relations and protectionist measures that hinder their development. The text also touches on the need for sustainable development and restoring confidence in international trade. Given these themes, it is likely that the text belongs to the categories related to economic development, international trade, and humanitarian aid and relief.

**Category**
International trade, Economic development