(Mr. Ishii, Japan) When we consider the issue of development in developing countries, growth is as important a factor as human resource develo?Uent. In the 1980s, although high rates of economic growth were seen in Asia, many countries in sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America recorded negative per capita grOflth. There are internal as well as external reasons for weak growth on the part of those developing countries, and it is necessary for developed and developing countries to co-operate closely to end the vicious circle of weak growth in order to revitalize the world economy. The debt problem is hampering the gra,,th of developing countries. Their total debt as of the end of 1989 is estimated at Sl.29 trillion. That creates serious problems not only for the sound development of developing countries but also for the balanced growth of the world economy, To solve the problem, indebted countries must first endeavour to create a domestic environment in which their people can fully exploit their economic potential. Specifically, in order to restore credit-worthiness to their economies, developing countries must implement structural adjustment measures, including those aimed at restraining inflation, improving the domestic savings rate, activating the private sector, controlling capital flight and creating an environment favourable to increased direct investment. At the same time, it is necessary for developed countries to extend greater financial assistance to the structural adjustment efforts of indebted countries in an appropriate and timely manner. BHS/JK A/S-18/PV.2 46 (Mr. Ishii, Japan) The importance of expanding financial flows to developing countries is also stressed in the report of the "Independent Group on Financial Flows to Developing Countries", chaired by former Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany His Excellency Mr. Schmidt. That group was established in accordance with a proposal 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the issue of development in developing countries, focusing on the importance of economic growth, debt problems, and structural adjustment measures. It also mentions the need for developed countries to provide financial assistance. These themes suggest that the text is primarily concerned with economic development and international cooperation.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade