They stressed the need to expand economic, scir!ntific and tech­ _nological co-operation on a long-term basis between the socialist countries within the Council for Mutual Economic Assistance, with a view to the promotion of the economic and social development of each country, the solution of the economic problems that arise, the realization of programmes of building socialism and communism, and the raising of the level of material and intellectual life of their peoples. That will be an important contribution to the interaction between the socialist countries in the economic sphere. The States participating in the meeting emphasize that every people has the sovereign right to decide freely and without any outside interference how it will live and what social order it will install, and also the legitimate right to defend its choice. Recognizing their responsibility to advance the cause of peace and international security, the socialist countries scrupulously distin­ guish in their policy between ideological questions and the problems of inter-State relations, build their relations with. the capitalist coun­ tries on the basis of peaceful coexistence, and consistently support broad co-operation with the developing countries. Co-operation between States irrespective of their social systems serves the inter­ ests of all peoples and the vital need to strengthen world peace. VI De~pite the diversity of present international problems, prospects for the development of the situation in Europe and the world as a whole depend to a very great extent on success in eliminating dis­ trust and reducing the degree of confrontation between the two largest military and political alliances-the Warsaw Treaty and NATO. which possess a huge potential. especially in the sphere of nuclear weapons. An armed conflict between them would have fatal consequences for all peoples. The States Parties to the Warsaw Treaty have long advocated the 
**Analysis**
The text appears to focus on the relationship between socialist countries, their cooperation, and the promotion of economic and social development. It also mentions the importance of peaceful coexistence with capitalist countries and the need to eliminate distrust and reduce confrontation between military alliances. The text does not specifically discuss natural resources, environment, agriculture, forestry, fishing, health, education, employment, humanitarian aid, or culture.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade, Science and technology