Mr. <IJJRAL (India): It is a matter of great satisfaction to me that my first opportunity of addressirg the General Assembly is on the occasion of the special session devoted to international economic co-operation. We are very pleased that an esteemed personality from a country with which we have very friendly and cordial relations is in the Chair. I am confident that his skills will enable our deliberations to attain worthwhile objectives. India rejoices at the entry of Namibia into our family of nations. The raising of independent Namibia's flag earlier this afternoon was a proud moment not only for the people of Namibia but for freedom-loving people everywhere. In congratulating our brethren in Namibia we congratulate ourselves too. I also congratulate the United Nations on its successful role in giving concrete shape to the cherished goal of the brave, courageous people of Namibia. This special session convenes at a time of remarkable and unprecedented changes, some of which are taking place at a breath-taking pace. East-West detente has improved prospects for disarmament as well as for finding solutions to a large number of regional conflicts, solutions which had proved intractable until recently. With the improvement in these relationships between the big lbwers, the United Nations is now in a better posi tioo to play the role envisaged for it in the Charter: to achieve peace and security and prosperity for all. The last few months have seen a dramatic movement in East Europe in the direction of democracy, multi-party government, pluralism, the exercise of basic BCl'/td A/S-18/PV. 2 78 (Mr. Gujral, India) human rights, the opening up of economies and their integration in the world economy as a whole. This upsurge of democracy has recently had a welcome echo in Nepal, our close and friendly neighbour. Seldom in nodern history have we seen 
**Analysis**
The text appears to focus on international economic cooperation, highlighting the importance of the United Nations in achieving peace, security, and prosperity for all nations. It also touches on the themes of democracy, human rights, and economic integration, which are all related to economic development.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade