programmes for rehabilitation and reconstruction of African economies especially in the wake of the present socio-economic crisis in Africa, Gravely concerned at the continuing escalation of oil and oil- product prices as determined by transnational oil corporations, and the fact that African countries are spending up to 50 per cent of their export earnings on these products, Aware that although in recent years the prices charged for crude oil by producer countries have gone down appreciably, the prices at which - 122 - the oil companies sell oil and oil products to African countries have not correspondingly reduced and in many cases have even increased, Recognizing the importance of the African countries' adopting of a harmonized position in negotiations with oil companies for better prices, 1, Requests the Executive Director of the United Nations Centre on Transnational Corporations (UNCTC)} in close collaboration with the Executive Secretary of ECA, to undertake a comprehensive study on the role of transnational corporations in the petroleum industry in Africa with special reference to fluctuations of prices vis-a-vis the producer countries and the cost to African countries of oil and oil products; 2, Appeals to African member States to give full support to the United Nations experts entrusted with these studies and to provide information on the activities of the transnational corporations operating in their respective countries in this field; 3, Urges member States to explore ways of harmonizing their stand in the negotiations with transnational corporations in this field as a means of improving their bargaining positions; 4, Further urges the member States to share information and their experiences in dealing with transnational corporations including negotia­ tions, contracts and agreements relating to prospecting, production, distribution and marketing of petroleum and related products in Africa. 241st meeting, 29 April 1985. 561 (XX). Vote of thanks to His Excellency Comrade Mengistu Haile-Mariam, 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing the impact of transnational corporations on African economies, specifically in the context of oil prices and negotiations. It highlights the concerns of African countries in dealing with oil corporations and seeks to find solutions to improve their bargaining positions. The text does not mention any specific agricultural, forestry, fishing, or cultural issues, but rather focuses on economic and trade-related matters.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade