special session to international economic co-operation and development. The Assembly's conclusions on the situation of the world economy in the 198Os, the prospects for improving that situation, and the commitments that were made by the Assembly make possible a positive view of that event. AEfpt A/45/PV.l0 78 (Mr. Bonao, Gabon) The renewed assumption by the United Nations of a role in respect of the problems relating to the North-South dialogue, if it is characterized by a global 1 approach, should result in new hope. The advantages of such an approach are i. obvious. Applied to the thorny question of the treatment of debt, for example, it ' would avoid priority being given to economic aspects over social aspects, or to political aspects over moral aspects. AS was said by the Executive Secretary of the Economic COmhSSiOn for Africa in his last report, external constraints are an essential element of the economic standstill in Africa. Indeed, in addition to an ever-worsening balance of trade from year to year, there is an ever-heavier burden of debt, amounting, for the African countries alone, to about $260 billion - that is to say, one fifth of the total debt of developing countries. Our countries have adopted programmes of structural adjustment, and have participated in agreements for the rescheduling of debt. On this basis, they have taken, individually, measures to improve their finances and their budget procedures, and have done so despite negative consequences at the social level - consequences that might become less dire if creditor countries were to lessen the debt burden. In this respect, Gabon - a country of medium-range income - welcomes the reduction in the rate of interest on the public debt unilaterally decided upon by France. This initiative is proof of the role of international solidarity in the 
**Analysis**
The text primarily discusses the economic situation of African countries, the debt burden, and the role of international cooperation in addressing these issues. It also touches on the social and moral aspects of the debt crisis. The text does not mention natural resources, environment, agriculture, forestry, fishing, industry, transport, communication, health, education, employment, humanitarian aid, or culture. Science and technology are not explicitly mentioned, but the text does mention economic development and international trade.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade