278. The Council has taken note of the statement by a petitioner on Palau's debts incurred in connection with the construction of an electric power station. It requests the Administering Authority to ascertain that those debts have not reached an intolerable level. International trade 279. The Council notes that the Territory continues to derive benefit from the provisions of Headnote 3 (a) of the United States Tariff Code and the Generalized System of Preferences. It echoes the concern of the representative of the Northern Mariana Islands about the future of the clothing industry, and expresses the hope that the Administering Authority will.ensure that taxes on certain categories of goods are eliminated and that present quotas are raised. 280. The Council believes that the promotion of investment, particularly originating from the United States and Japan, is of primary importance. It therefore requests the Administering Authority to encourage the organisation of visits to the Territory by representatives of chambers of commerce and other professional associations with a view to attracting foreign capital. In that connection, the Council notes with satisfaction that the Administering Authority remains sensitive to this important auestion. -39- Agriculture 2. Agriculture and marine r@SOUrCeS 281. The Council notes with satisfaction the position of the Administering Authority, which recognizes the primary importance of agriculture, first 'Or internal consumption, in order to reduce dependence on imports, and secondly for export. 282. For that reason, the Council takes note of the aid granted by the United States Department of Agriculture, in particular for studies on forestry and livestock production. 283. The Council is concerned at the consequences of the drought, particularly in the Marshall Islands, which caused a 14 per cent reduction in copra production. It strongly encourages the Administering Authority to continue its aid to combat the 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing various aspects of Palau's economy, including its debts, international trade, investment, and agriculture. It also touches on the consequences of a drought in the Marshall Islands. The tone is focused on finding solutions and encouraging the Administering Authority to take certain actions.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade, Agriculture, forestry and fishing