UN General Assembly
2004

have been raised do not diminish the case not only for its continued existence but also for its strengthening as a world body. As we survey the latest developments in crises spots around the globe, the realization intensifies that solutions to the major problems of our age are beyond the grasp and control of any single nation or particular group of nations, however powerful and determined. The international system is itself frequently overwhelmed by the immensity and complexity of many of the problems it faces. The United Nations is indeed at the forefront of action in the most critical areas - furthering development, relieving suffering, safeguarding human rights, combating terrorism, fighting environmental degradation, fostering sustainability, resolving conflicts, promoting peace and disarmament and upholding the rule of international law. Each year we derive a measure of comfort from the knowledge that some progress is being recorded in certain areas. In this yearís report the Secretary- General mentions last Julyís Framework Agreement that put the Doha Round of trade negotiations back on track; he refers to the contribution that United Nations