and that the prgblem of Micronesia remained one of decolonization. 200. The representative of the Soviet Union pointed out that co-operation with the Special Committee was not a gift from colonial Powers but an obligation according to decisions of the United Nations. There were no cases in history where colonial Powers had vol.untarily given independence to colonial countries, They had -28- i relinquished control only when forced to do so by a struggle on the part of the peoples of those Territories against the colonial yoke. 201. The representative of the United Kingdom said that he found amazing the Suggestion of the Soviet representative that the colonial powers, including the United Kingdom, were trying to wind down, destroy or subvert the work of the decolonization committees in the United Nations. The United Kingdom submitted lengthy statements to the Sub-Committee on Small Territories each year, provided information to the Secretary-General under Article 73 2 of the Charter and periodically invited missions of the Special Committee to visit its dependent Territories, thereby demonstrating its good faith and willingness to co-operate with the Committee. In fact, the United Kingdom's de-colonization record was second to none. Approximately one third of the current States Members of the United Nations had experienced British colonial rule and most bad been granted independence peacefully. 202. The representative of the united States said that his delegation favoured absolutely the elimination of colonialism in all its manifestations not only in Micronesia but wherever it continued to exist, including South-East Asia and South Asia. 203. The representative of France recalled that in 1959, General Charles de Gaulle, as Head of the French Government, had defined the principles and mechanisms which the following year had led to the peaceful independence of most of the French possessions in Africa. Those principles and mechanisms had been adhered to by all 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing the topic of decolonization, with representatives from various countries (Soviet Union, United Kingdom, United States, and France) sharing their perspectives on the issue. The focus is on the colonial powers' obligations to grant independence to their dependent territories, rather than on specific economic, social, or environmental issues.

**Category**
International relations, Politics