co-operation for development cannot but be of benefit for the whole international communi tv. But above all we are aware that the development of our countries is primarily dependent upon our own efforts and initiatives. We are aware that our peoples' material 1 ivinq conditions cannot be improved at the cost of destrovinq our culture, our traditions and our value system. We are aware -and I declare this solemnly on behalf of the member States of the Economic Cormnunitv of West African States -that our salvation lies, on the one hand, in our uni tv of action and, oo the other, in our solidari tv. Our future action will be pr imar il v oriented towards the inteqration of our economies, the comPlete participation of our peoPles in the process of development, a ~velopment based on the dynamic elements of our cultural her itaqe. In order to strenqthen their actioo the member States of the Economic Cormnunitv of West African States need the co-operation and assistance of other countries and of international institutions. All of us have acknowledqed the important role played by the United Nations in the political and security areas, which has qreatly contributed to the current political detente. We have all hailed JP31/jf A/S-18/PV.6 150 (Mr. Vokouma, Burkina Faso) the actions of the United Nations which have rna~ possible the decolonization of Namibia. Those successes should encourage us all to pnt an end to veiled or open attacks <ll multilateralism and to restore to the United Natiom the central role that it should play in the economic sphere as well. Throuqh multilateralism we can brinq the necessary balance into economic matters. Justice and equity in relations between people and justice and equity in relations between States will ensure that the fraq ile peace that is beqinninq is 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the importance of international cooperation for development, emphasizing the role of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the United Nations. It highlights the need for unity of action, solidarity, and the integration of economies, as well as the preservation of cultural heritage. The text also mentions the importance of multilateralism in economic matters and the need for justice and equity in international relations.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade