25. Finally, let me end this statement by appealinq to the in­ t_ernational canmunity to live up to its commitments to Africa, particularly ir. reqard to the provision of development aid. 26. The International Development Strateqy set a tarqet of 0.7 per cent of the GNP of developed countries to be provided as as­ sista nee to de vel opinq countries. The United Nations Conference on Least Developed Countries recommended that at least 0.15 per cent of the GNP of developed countries should be directed to.r.~ards least developed countries, in the framework of the Substantial New ProoramMe of Action for the 1980s. Present trends are in the opposite direction: flc:Ms of official develnpment assistance declined in volume in 1981, and aqain in 1982. It is essential for this tendency tc he reversed, as the capital needs of the reqion in the.l980s lflill require at least a doublinq of external assista nee flows. t-1oreover, the obstacles to inter-nati cna 1 trade which are mul tipl yi nq -should be removed, and, in particular, protectionist measures aqainst developinq countries' products other than primary ccmmodities should be eliminated. Despite the adaptation problems that this may involve, both developed and developinq countries will benefit from qreater freedom in inter­ national trade. 27. The most important condition to be fulfilled, however, is that the terms and conclitions of international assistance must be consonant with the objectives and development philosophy of African countries, as set forth in the Laqos Plan of Action. 8 E/ECA/CM.9/S II. THE INTERNATIONAL ECONOHIC SITUATION A. Over-all trends 1. At the end of 1982 it appears that the world economy has not yet recovered from the effects of the so-called "second oil shock" of 1979-1980. Despite the positive developments of fall­ inq interest rates and lower inflation, the expected recovery has 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing the economic situation and development of Africa, specifically focusing on the provision of development aid and international trade. The language used is technical and formal, suggesting a context of international diplomacy or policy-making. The text also mentions specific economic targets and percentages, which further supports the conclusion that the category is related to economic development.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade