countries and are equallv responsible for the vitality of their economies, must be more fullv inteqrated into the mainstream of development activities. The conveninq of this special session stems in part from a realization that the development proqrammes of third world countries have not brouqht the expected results and that their strugqle aqainst poverty and underdevelopment has continued to yield only limited results. Notwithstanding the prospects that various conferences have discussed, mv delegation believes that developinq countries must now make qood on their avowed cC>mmitment t<> South-South co-operation in a spirit of collective self-reliance. It is becoming increasinqlv clear that the developed countries have opted for q rea ter co-operation among themselves. Consider, if vou will, the sinqle market BHS/jl A/S-18/PV. 7 44-45 (Mr. Johnson; Liberia) beinQ created within the European Community by 1993, the conclusion of the United States-Canada Free Trade Area Aqreement, and the economic reforms occurrinq in Eastern Europe and elsewhere in the North. If even these developed countries can perceive economic co-operation and inteqration as a means of strenqtheninq their international competitiveness and ensuring their collective welfare, then the POtential value of economic co-operation and inteqration for developinq countries as an option to achieve the same objective should be obvious. In conclusion, whatever is thought of international co-operation as an instrument to assist developinq countries, it must remain nothinq more than a means to an end. If we in the developing countries are to survive and prosper, we shall be able to do so only through the pursuit of sound economic policies, hard work and co-operation among ourselves. International co-operation, especially in the areas of debt relief, greater market access, environmental protection, and human resources development should help us to attain that goal. RM/11 A/S-18/PV. 7 46 Dame Ann HERCUS (New Zealand): It is a pleasure to know that the work of 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the importance of international cooperation and self-reliance for developing countries to achieve economic development and prosperity. It highlights the need for developing countries to take charge of their own development and not rely solely on international aid. The text also mentions specific areas where international cooperation can be beneficial, such as debt relief, market access, and environmental protection.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade