languishing in the throes of hunger. Nor is this expenditure compatible with the current qualitative chanqe in international relations. The deteriorating situation experienced by most developinq countries is not a matter of choice. These countries entered the twentieth century under colonial rule, and it is no exaggeration to say that colonialism contributed to the plundering of their economic and cultural resources. When the colonial countries attained independence, they were faced with a highlY competitive international market in which the prices of Primary commodities had declined sharPlY in comparison with those of manufactured goods, at a time when these countries lacked the technological and scientific potential to match the competition. Thus, they were Pushed into the poverty trap. The develoPment process is one of historic accumulation. It is not a political option. Therefore the developed countries are partlY responsible for the backwardness of the developing nations. While we support the proposal discussed in the Preparatory Committee to allocate o. 7 per cent of the gross national product of developed countries towards assisting the developing countries, with 0 .. 15 per cent allocated to the least JVM/3 A/S-18/PV. 8 7 (Mr • ·Al-Shaali; ·t:Jni ted Arab· Emirates) developed countries, we continue to believe that these figures in themselves are insufficient. They must be associated with comprehensive proqrammes aimed at systematically tackling the urgent problems of the develoPing world. The following aspects should be given sPecial attention: First, the problem of debt has become the heaviest burden of the developing nations, obliging them to divert a very large part of their income towards servicing external debt. Secondly, adequate prices for primarv commodities are vital for the economies of most developing countries. Therefore, an improvement in comnodity Prices and access to the markets of developed countries, in accordance with each State's 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the struggles of developing countries, their historical context, and the need for international assistance. It highlights the importance of addressing the debt burden, commodity prices, and market access. The language used is formal and diplomatic, suggesting a context of international negotiations or policy-making.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade