In this context it is deplorable to see official development assistance reaching its lowest point ever. Honouring the commitments of ODA entered into internationally by industrialized countries has become a question of credibility. It is also a question of effectiveness of the multilateral system. The UN-system cannot perform the tasks we ask of it if we deny it the necessary means. The downward trend of ODA must be reversed, and a higher share should be multilateral.
Many poor countries are crippled with debt hampering their development.
We are, however, disappointed by the lack of progress in financing the initiative. We appeal to the major donor countries to live up to their responsibilities following the debt declaration of the Cologne Summit. Besides aid, not instead of aid, developing countries need trade. In the forthcoming new global trade round every effort must be made to ensure better market access for developing countries and to enhance their real capacity to take part in international trade. Mr. President, The pursuit of human security and human development are not two independent paths.