co-operation, be it in <Ebt resolution, trade liberalization, co-operation in science and technology, or in conserving and protecting the environment. JP/ASW A/S-18/PV. 4 11 (Mr. Omar, Malaysia) There must be an urgent consensus to generate in the economic and social fields the same atmosphere of hope and optimism as is now found in the }X)litical arena. The relaxation of East~est tensions must lead to a reallocation of resources away from armaments and towards socially productive uses, including development co-operation. While it is self-evident that different countries and regions have special concerns, the developing countries as a whole are confronted with common impediments to their development. For instance, poverty is endemic not only in Asia but also in Africa and Latin America. Over 70 countries have to grapple with onerous debt problems, and more than a hundred experience a net transfer of resources to developed countries and multilateral financial institutions. No less serious, low prices for commodities adversely affect the economic situation of the majority of developing countries, while protectionism and other trade measures in important developed countries hinder the export efforts of all developing countries. It is therefore imperative for the international community to seek to remove these obstacles, so that the 1990s may be a decade of growth and development. This special session, therefore, is an appropriate and timely forum to forge a fresh and new partnership, devoid of rancour and recrimination. The frustrations of the past, unmet targets and unhonoured promises should not be obstacles in the dynamic path of change. We all have our respective roles and responsibilities in adjusting to these changes, but we must together create a global environment that will permit a broad-based improvement in the quality of life of all our peoples. There can be no meaningful exchange on the theme of this session without a 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the importance of international co-operation in various fields, including economic development, trade, science, and technology, with a focus on addressing common challenges faced by developing countries. It highlights the need to remove obstacles to development, such as debt, low commodity prices, and protectionism, and to create a global environment that promotes growth and development.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade