into the nainstream of the world economy at large, which will, one hopes, provide it with a very welcome boost. The fundamental principle of every people's right to rule itself, through its freely elected representatives, has enjoyed many triumphs also in other parts of the world recently. I am referring, in particular, to Namibia's transition to BHS/td A/S-18/PV. 3 64-65 (Mr. Vraalsen, Nor\\!~:i) independence and majority rule last month, and also to developments in several Latin American countries.* * Mr. Jaya (Brunei Darussalam), Vice-President, took the Chair. JVM/15 A/S-18/PV. 3 66 (Mr. Vraalsen, Norway) Decisive progress has been made in the resolution of several regional conflicts over the past few years, with good help from the United Nations, and this has contributed towards raising the Organization's standing and prestige. Detente and the vastly improved relations between the super-Powers have contributed to a significant improvement in the general political climate. This should also benefit the econmic dialogue. A renewed and positive interest in using the Organization to achieve practical results in areas that are high on the political agenda -such as efforts to safeguard the environment, combat drug abuse and facilitate economic integration -is visible in many countries, including the super-Powers. High expectations and ambitious demands on the United Nations will necessarily have to be accompanied by strengthened support for the Organization both politically and financially. Ideological differences have all but disappeared in many areas, or at least have narrowed considerably. This is true also for the economic debate. Market-oriented approaches are increasingly being relied upon in the economic policies of virtually all countries. At the same time, there can be no serious argument about the fact that an adequate and efficient public sector is also needed to provide the necessary infrastructure and public services, to make sure that the expected benefits from competition are not jeopardized by monopolies and abuses of 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing the current state of international relations and the role of the United Nations in promoting economic development, resolving regional conflicts, and addressing global issues. The language used is formal and diplomatic, suggesting a focus on high-level international discussions and agreements.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade