of the Assembly at its eighteenth special session, and assure him of our country's continued full support and co-operation in his task of ensuring that our proceedings neet the high hopes and aspirations of the international community, in particular those of the developing world. It is also with a deep sense of emotion that the Philippines, having been in the forefront of the fight for freedom and democracy in Asia for the last century, welcomes the independence of Namibia. Namibia's independence attests to the capability of the United Nations as an Organization to give full meaninq to individual countries' aspirations for dignity and self-determination in the community of nations. On this historic occasion, therefore, the Philippine delegation extends to the courageous and proud people of Namibia its warmest and sincerest congratulations and welcome. I should like to add my delegation's voice in calling for a global approach in strengthening international economic co-operation with a long-term perspective -an approach aimed at revitalizing growth and development in developing countries and a multilateral approach that will set the tone for international economic co-operation in the 1990s. A/S-18/PV.2 139 (Mr. Maceda, Philippines) However, before we can provide a blueprint for the reactivation of growth and development in developing countries, an assessment of developments and changes in the world economy in the 1980s must be undertaken. The obstacles that impede growth and development must be identified. Only then can we hope to provide a solid basis for action in response to the challenges of the 1990s. For a majority of the developing countries, the 1980s has been classified as a "lost decade", during which these countries were driven to take measures that entailed great social and economic costs. Heavy debt burdens hung over the flexibility of these nations to adopt appropriate policies for their growth and development. A negative transfer of 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a speech or statement from the Philippines at a United Nations Assembly, discussing the country's support for the international community, the independence of Namibia, and the need for global economic cooperation and development. The text highlights the challenges faced by developing countries in the 1980s, including heavy debt burdens, and emphasizes the need for a solid basis for action to address these challenges.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade