magnificent culmination of the heroic struggle of the Namibian people against colonial cbmination and racist oppression, but indeed vindicates the trust which mankind reposes in this uniqte multilateral forLDn to bring freedom and justice to oppressed peoples everywhere. The Secretary-General's comprehensive report (A/AC. 223/ 5 and Corr .1) has described the state of international economic oo-operation and has pointed the way forward with perceptive clarity and objectivity. In his statement this morning the Cha irrnan of the Group of 77 eloquently articulated the oollective views of the Group on the issues before us, and the Federal Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Yugoslavia gave the views of the Non-Aligned M:>vement. My delegation, of course, fully concurs with those statements. I shall therefore confine my intervention to highlighting some aspects which I believe to be of particular relevance and interest in the present stage of world developments. This special session provides us with a timely opportunity to engage in sober reflection oo the lessons to be drawn from the problems and experiences of the JP/sm A/S-18/PV. 2 63 (Mr. Alatas, _ Indonesia) ,recent past. At the same time, it also presents us with the chance to harmonize our collective responses to the challenges, as well as the historic opportunities, facing us today in a world caught up in fundamental transition and transformation. IDoking back over the p;i.st decade, one sees that it is valid to observe that the wcrld economy was basically characterized by uneven and low growth, acute disparities and continuing uncertainties. While the developed countries generally prospered, and world outp.it and trade expanded, many developing countries continued to be caught in a web of cumulative constraints and setbacks and remained mired in stagnation and retrogression. Even in Asia, where, despite adversity, some developing economies have performed well, the number of people living belCM the 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a diplomatic speech discussing the state of the world economy, international cooperation, and the challenges facing developing countries. It mentions the Secretary-General's report, the Group of 77, and the Non-Aligned Movement, indicating a focus on international relations and economic development. The speech also touches on the theme of freedom and justice for oppressed peoples, suggesting that it may have broader implications for human rights and humanitarian aid.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade, Humanitarian aid and relief