adopting consistent and judicious national policies. However, without an international environment that is responsive to those domestic efforts it would be futile to hope for a better performance by our economies. At the same time, the reform policies imposed on us very often take no account of the specific realities of each country. Therefore, structural adjustment programmes should take into consideration the social costs of their application and their real effectiveness. The United Nations has set itself great and noble goals. One is to promote social progress and establish better living conditions throughout the world. It is the fulfilment of those ideals that we seek at this session. We hope that our debates will lead to a series of effective, concrete measures designed to put economic growth in the developing countries back on track. JP/bg A/S-18/PV.9 24 (Mr. Ravix, Haiti ) We are sure that a solemn commitment by all countries to implement those measures will enable us tn meet this serious challenge to the international communi ty. Mr. NIETO (Costa Rica) (interpretation from Spanish) : I have the honour to address the Assembly on behalf of the Central American States - El Salvador , Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica - and to reaffirm our resolute readiness to contribute to making a success of this session. We are pleased to see the President guiding our work, since his outstanding qualities as a diplomat and his broad knowledge of the subject of international economic co-operation will help us do worthwhile work, with successful results. We whole-heartedly welcome Namibia as a new Member of the United Nations. The people of Costa Rica wishes the fraternal people of Namibia prosperity and well-being. Namibia's admission represents a historic victory for the Namibian people and the United Nations, whose efforts facilitated Namibia's peaceful transition to independence.
**Analysis**
The text discusses the importance of consistent national policies and international cooperation to promote economic growth and development, particularly in developing countries. The speakers also mention the need to consider the social costs and effectiveness of structural adjustment programs. The text does not specifically mention natural resources, environment, agriculture, forestry, fishing, industry, transport, communication, health, education, employment, humanitarian aid, or culture.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade