UN General Assembly
1998

cognizance of the special development need of weaker and vulnerable partners to adjust to the demands of competitiveness. We need time to allow a transitional period of preparation and adjustment. And we need to do so under fair conditions. We small island developing States are the weaker and more vulnerable members of the international community. It is a well-established fact. But whilst momentum has been created for the recognition of our special characteristics and constraints, it is somewhat disappointing to note that avowed intentions have yet to be translated into action. How are we to interpret this apparent inertia in the application of the so-called vulnerability index? How are we to interpret this apparent indifference to the problems we face, especially in relation to security, sustainable development and environmental protection? Vulnerability has taught us in the Seychelles a few lessons, though. Whilst our voice is little heard in this forum, whenever we are asked about our role on the world stage our response generally reveals an impressive scoresheet in such areas as conservation of the