The greater part of our economy is based on the sea and related activities such as fishing, tourism and transportation between the islands. The size and openness of the economy expose it to external shocks. However, we have been fortunate in being agile enough to adjust to such shocks. ]n the last decade we have maintained a good growth rate, and during the last five years we have achieved an annual average 9 per cent gross-domestic-product growth in real terms. The success so far achieved in the economic and social development of the country is linked also to foreign aid. I should like to put on record our gratitude to our donors, who have helped us in various areas to maintain our development. While doing so I should add that future prospects would look dim without additional support and co-operation from the donors. This is probably the reality for many countries, and whatever plan of action emerges from this·session should brighten up the future for the developing countries. RH/25 A/S-18/PV. 4 119-120 (Mr. Mujuthaba, Maldives) Maldives wishes to urge the developed countries to take positive steps in making binding commitments to reach the target for official development assistance, which at the moment are kept only a handful of nations. Maldives also urges them to use more rational and humanitarian yardsticks in the selection of recipients, and it emphasizes the importance of periodic replenishments of the resources of the International Development Association. JP/jg A/S-18/PV. 4 121 (Mr. Mujuthaba, Maldives) Returninq to the theme, economic co-operation, and in particular revitalization of economic growth and development of the developing countries, I \ ,lc' suggest that the developed countries and those in various stages of development must treat the problems globally rather than nationally, and should resolve to 
**Analysis**
The text primarily focuses on the economic development of a country, specifically the Maldives, and its dependence on foreign aid. The speaker also touches on the importance of global cooperation and binding commitments for official development assistance. The text does not specifically mention natural resources, environment, agriculture, forestry, fishing, industry, transport, communication, health, education, employment, or culture.

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