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GENRAL DISCUSSION(continued)
DEBAT GENERALT(suite)
DEBATE GENERAL (continuación)]

- STATEMENTS BY HEADS OF DELEGATION (continued)
- DECLARATIONS PES CHEFS DE DELEGATIONS (suite)
- MANIFESTACIONES POR LOS JEFES DE LAS DELEGACIONES (continuación)

CHAIRMAN: I call the Sixth Plenary Meeting to order. We will continue with the item General Discussion. I give the floor to the speaker for Turkey.

…(Turkey): On behalf of my Government and of my delegation, I would like to express our best wishes for the success of the 19th Session of the FAO Conference.

It gives me a particular pleasure to congratulate you, Mr. Chairman, on your well-deserved election to the chair of this important Conference. We are confident that, under your able guidance, our deliberations will achieve positive and constructive results.

My congratulations go also to our eminent colleagues, upon their elections as vice-chairmen, who will contribute to the success of this Session.

I wish to take this opportunity to extend a very warm welcome on behalf of my Government to the new members of FAO, who are joining us, for the first time, in this Session. With the participation of Angola, Comoros, the Democratic Republic of Korea, Mozambique, Sao Tome and Principe, and Djibouti, Namibia and Seychelles our Organisation will be more representative of our small planet and their contributions will make our work fuller and richer.

It is always pleasant to welcome new members to our Organization and to see this Organization established 32 years ago with only 42 members, becoming year by year, the most efficient and leading organ of the United Nations's family, in the struggle of countries for their economic development, in the struggle of man against poverty and hunger.

We are gathering again here, in this beautiful and eternal city of Rome, 3 years after the convocation of the World Food Conference.

The World Food Conference was a very important step forward in the search of new international action to fight the poverty, malnutrition and hunger that afflict more than half of the world's population. The decisions taken at that Conference and subsequently endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly, have led to the creation of the World Food Council, of the Consultative Group of Food Production and Investment in the developing countries and of the International Fund for the Agricultural Development.

It is too early to evaluate properly the activities of these new bodies, as they are either at their initial stage of functioning, or not yet entered into force.

In this context, Mr. Chairman, we would like to express our strong conviction, that the primary responsibility for the questions of food and agriculture rests with the FAO and that our desire is to see the Organization as the leading Agency in these matters. It should be understood that the role of the new organs should be restricted only to the tasks that went beyond FAO's mandate. It is of utmost importance not only for the waste of energy and resources but also for the viability and effectiveness of the new bodies that there should be no duplication of functions and activities between them and FAO as the leading Agency.

As regards the IFAD agreement whose entry into force is imminent, we attach importance that the greatest number of developing countries could benefit from the financing of their development projects. We are sure that with the effective cooperation of FAO, IFAD will be a promising Organization for the rural development of our countries. We believe that contribution of necessary funds will significantly help efforts by the developing countries to improve their agricultural structure and consequently to increase their food production. We have already informed the Organization that my Government has earmarked in the 1977 budget, a sum equivalent to US$ 100 000 in turkish liras.

I wish to recall that, when the World Food Conference was ι convened, 3 years ago, it was a period of expectations for the developing countries which have put their hopes in the efforts for the establishment of a more just world economic order. It is regrettable to note that, the results of these efforts


undertaken by the international community to lay the foundation for a new economic order are getting less encouraging, today. North-South dialogue has produced no tangible results yet. On the other hand, as far as the world agriculture situation is concerned, the forecasts are less optimistic than what was expected. Unfavourable weather conditions in recent months resulted in shortfalls in the total value of production, particularly of food crops.

In this general bleak picture, where expectations of the developing countries have often led to deceptions, we must all unite our efforts and deliberations to see more room for hope at the end of the 19th FAO Conference. We are confident that our fresh dedication and endeavour in response to international community for a renewed priority accorded to rural development in the developing countries will be reflected in constructive policy initiatives.

As a representative of a developing country which heartily and readily supports the efforts for agricultural development, I wish to stress that it is highly desirable to see FAO undertaking more and more initiatives in the field of investments and also coordinating and supervising cooperations between the developing countries on the basis of regional development projects of common interest.

We attach special importance to the action-oriented activities of FAO and we are pleased to note that the re-orientation of FAO programmes with greater emphasis on field activities is beginning to bear fruit.

In this context, Mr. Chairman, let me take this opportunity to express our deep appreciation for the work of the Director-General Mr. Saouma, who has more than deserved the confidence we have placed in him. I want to assure him that Turkey will continue to support him actively in his action-oriented efforts, in his quest for ^-bureaucratization that assists the real transfer of activities to the country level. In fact, we are ready to give our full support for all the efforts of this nature which assure us that our contribution is fully spent for operational, concrete and action-oriented projects.

At this point, Mr. Chairman, I would like to express, also, our appreciation for the activities of the Techinical Cooperation Programme which is fulfilling a very important function in providing a quick and effective response to requests for urgent, small-scale technical, assistance. TCP is one of the initiatives of the Director General that we fully support and expect a larger emphasis be given to its development.

Let me briefly comment on some developments in FAO and in World Food Programme developments which seem to us of particular importance.

We note with satisfaction the International Fertilizer Scheme, recommended by the Commission on fertilizers. We are happy to see also that again the Commission is in the process of evolving specific policies and measures aimed at ensuring prize stabilization and at reducing price differentials for fertilizers paid by farmers in developing, importing countries.

We take note, also, with satisfaction that a great deal of progress has been accomplished in the "preparation for the World Conference on Agrarian Reform and Rural Development, to which we, in Turkey, are attacing a particular importance.

The dimensions of this vast question of agrarian reform necessitate an enlarged scope of preparatory work to be accomplished. So, instead of a limited technical- meeting as it was envisaged before, it becomes. apparent that a broader conceptual approach is required for the organization of the Conference.

We believe that FAO must have a minimum security against persistent currency fluctuations; that is why we consider favourably the establishment of a special reserve account of 5 million US$, allocated to this end.

As far as the reduction of food losses is concerned, we note with pleasure efforts of FAO on this matter and give our support for 10 million US$ earmarked for the special fund for reduction of food losses.

My Government has a particular interest in the activities of FAO regarding Forestry and Fisheries. Weobserve, with satisfaction FAO's continuing programmes to assist countries in improving their planning, administrative and research capabilities and to strength forestry education and training system indeveloping countries. .

As for the fisheries, coming from the Mediterranean and the Black Sea area, where the fishery problem is one of management and protection of the environment, I am convinced more that ever that FAO must lead the member countries of the region in solving their complicated fishery and environmental problems in


an integrated fashion. My delegation favours an orderly and coordinated approach to matters concerned with overall ocean affairs, now handled by various UN Agencies and intergovernmental bodies -consolidated under one big programme for which FAO should remain as the leading agency.

As far as the World Food Programme is concerned, Turkey has, since the early years of its existence, contributed actively to the efficient functioning of this programme, in conformity with its humanitarian objectives. The target of US$ 950 millions for contributions in the biennium 1978-80, as approved by the Committee on Food Aid Policies and Programmes, could be considered as a promising indication in the wide support of WFP in channelling multilateral food aid in an effective manner. We are happy to see the increasing role of WFP in the multilateral food aid to the developing countries for their struggle against malnutrition, hunger and poverty.

Another satisfactory development in the WFP context is the outcome of the considerable discussions on the revision of the general regulations. The revised general regulations, in the manner they are intended to be adopted, may give a flexibility of action to the Executive Director in considering the requests other that those coming normally from member countries of the United Nations.

We are of the opinion that such flexibility will contribute to the efficiency of WFP in its humanitarian objectives. At this point, I would like to congratulate Mr. Garson Nathaniel Vogel, upon his election as Executive Director of WFP, and wish him all the success in his important duties. Turkey has played an active role in the work of WFP as a member country of WFP. and will not spare its full support to the programme as an observer for the coming years.

Mr. Chairman, Turkey is an agricultural country, an agricultural country where two-thirds of the population is living in rural areas dependent on agricultural production. Turkey possesses rich resources and potentials in agricultural fields.

However, Turkish agriculture is subjected to adverse weather conditions which cause nutrition problems. Although in Turkey we have given priority to the development of a strong infrastructure of high productivity to agricultural output, the expected increase has not been achieved yet. Turkey thus represents a country which exports food and even gives food aid on several occasions, yet needs to import periodically food items as well. This situation stems from the fact taht the transfer of technology is still inadequate and that serious difficulties continue to exist in financing necessary investments in agriculture.

This fact is valid for most of the other developing countries. Financial difficulties continue to be the main obstacle for the realization of many well-conceived investment projects. Some of the projects cannot be implemented before accomplishing some large-scale and long-term infrastructure investments. These infrastructure investments necessitate the mobilisation of internal and external financial resources.

In this context, promotion of export of agricultural products could be a question that can be easily tackled in the framework of FAO. Even though UNCTAD and, to some extent GATT, are the main fora for such deliberations, we believe that FAO as far as marketing of agricultural goods is concerned could reasonably play a more important role and contribute more actively to the work of these bodies. In fact, the measures to be taken for increasing food production, for its efficient marketing and raising the developing countries' shares in the global exportation of agricultural products, all these issues have been discussed in detail in international bodies such as UNCTAD, GATT and FAO. Nevertheless, an integrated and coordinated programme of action for the developing countries in order to enable them to improve agricultural production and its exports has never been prepared and implemented. We believe that FAO could very well be an appropriate formum to prepare, with the coordination of other competent bodies, such an integrated programme of action.

Mr. Chairman, before concluding I would like to state that my Government observes with satisfaction and joins with a constructive spirit the efforts put forward by FAO and other international organizations for more effective cooperation to meet challenges of the world food production and feeding problems. The basic solution to the problem in the field of food and agriculture, rests on the increasing food production. Both the developing and developed countries are in full agreement on these views. It is hence imperative that a proper channel be set up between the developed and developing countries, for an effective transfer of technologies, capitals, as well as provisions and suitable prices of such inputs affecting agricultural production like fertilizers, insecticides and pesticides, machinery and equipment.

In conclusion, Mr, Chairman, I would like to emphasize once more that in order to achieve a substantial increase in the food production of the developing countries, FAO should place more emphasis on its action-oriented activities.


I am confident that our frank and full discussions, inspired with a fresh spirit of compromise, cooperation and a renewed dedication to our ideals, will indeed be instrumental, under your enlightened chairmanship, for a successful completion of the work of the Nineteenth Session of FAO. Such a result will usher in new vigour and determination to our joint and sustained efforts with a view to alleviating the suffering and misery of our world.

C. STAVROPOULOS (Greece): It gives me great pleasure to take the floor on this important occasion. It is indeed edifying to hear and exchange views about important matters, concerning agriculture and thus share from the experience of others in the effort to promote development and to improve the wellbeing of our peoples.

In the first place I wish, on behalf of the Greek Delegation, to congratulate you, Mr. Chairman, on your election to this high office. Our congratulations go also to the Vice-Chairmen for their election. We are certain that under your able guidance the Nineteenth Session of the Conference of FAO will achieve our common expectations.

At the same time I would like to express our appreciation to the Director-General, Mr. Edouard Saouma, who has spared no efforts in restructuring the Organization, extending the FAO's objectives and reorientating its activities. I would like also to commend his staff for the valuable work in preparing this Conference.

Last, but not least, I wholeheartedly congratulate and welcome the new Member Nations for their incorporation to this world family.

Mr. Chairman, the Greek Delegation has noted with satisfaction the improvement made during the past two years in world food and agricultural production. This situation has led to the improvement of the food consumption level in many developing countries, to the decline of international prices of several food commodities and to the creation of sufficient stocks.

However, despite this encouraging situation of world food production, the long-term perspectives remain unstable. Efforts should, therefore, be made in improving the infrastructure of the rural areas, which will limit the annual fluctuation of the agricultural production and will assure, in the long run, a satisfying rate of increase of the world agricultural output and a remarkable improvement of storing facilities, as well as marketing conditions.

The creation of this necessary infrastructure affects both directly and indirectly the improvement of agricultural productivity and leads towards increased food supplies in the world market. This is determined by the level and the extent of investment activities of each country as well as by the international institutions.

Under these circumstances, it is obvious that the increase of agricultural productivity will contribute significantly to agricultural development as a whole and, therefore, to the development of individual national economies.

It has recently been recognized that agricultural development is a basic prerequisite for the development of a national economy. Consequently, agriculture cannot be sustained for industry's sake. Nevertheless, it seems that the balanced and parallel development of both sectors, is considered today as more profitable. The increase in agricultural productivity contributes to the movement of productive resources towards industry, thus assisting the development of the industrial sector. Consequently, a priority system must be applied in the development programmes of every country and especially in programmes concerning investment, which should be based on the rational exploitation of all productivity resources. Among there priorities, the issue of food production and supply must come first.

Beyond the investment programme aiming at improving agricultural productivity and increasing agricultural output, additional policy measures are considered necessary in order to create a well-organized and efficient service of agricultural applications and training, a more comprehensive soil management, improvement of irrigation, a rational use of fertilizers and pesticides, mechanization, plant improvement and field research and improvement of loan facilities and subsidies.

Therefore, it is not sufficient to secure investment resources that require a great deal of effort. What is also necessary is to ensure the proper application of such investment resources in the rural areas of each country, . thus achieving a more rational increase of world agricultural output, sufficient to fulfill the basic nutrition needs of peoples, and also assisting the establishment of a new international economic order for the benefit of all the peoples of the world.

The role of FAO in the field of agricultural investment is, in the view of the Greek Delegation, multipurpose and significant. FAO's efforts should be intensified in order to increase the world investment resources which are used for agricultural development and to face effectively the problem of food supply


All member countries must be assisted more effectively by FAO for a more rational planning and carrying out of public works and other development programmes, as well as securing more financial resources under more favourable terms.

In some countries, mainly in the major rural areas, a relatively small amount of expenditure in the field of agricultural training and practical education, could show spectacular results in food production. In other countries, land reclamation projects are strongly required. And finally, there are countries that dispose of a relative infrastucture and need only to carry out certain supplementary works. The group of the countries mentioned first might be ranged among the poorest countries of the world. The latter might be in a more advanced stage of economic development but perhaps they would not belong to the economically advanced countries of the world. Nevertheless, they should all enjoy proper attention and care. The adoption of appropriate measures will permit a more rational consideration of priorities for achieving our targets on food production without abetting international antagonisms.

For all these reasons the Greek Delegation feels that the priorities given for investments in agriculture through a reorganized and wider programme prove very successful. We are convinced that FAO's activities in the field of promoting investments will contribute to the stabilization of world markets and the maintenance of international prices. In this way the terms of trade will not function against the developing agricultural countries.

The Greek Delegation welcomes with great satisfaction the intention of the World Bank to increase its loans in the agricultural sector and hopes that the International Fund for Agricultural Development will become a decisive element to secure additional financial resources for investments in food and other agricultural products.

Furthermore, the Greek Delegation believes that FAO must allocate a great part of its budget to further assist the scientific research activities that are being carried out in several regions and especially in Europe. This will produce favourable results not only for the European agriculture, but also for the world food and agricultural production.

We should always keep in mind that in Europe there are not only economically developed countries, but also developing countries, which need additional assistance for their agricultural development. Also in many European countries there are less-favoured areas that need to be assisted in order to develop their agricultural production, protect agricultural population centres and preserve their natural environment.

Before concluding this Statement, I would like to elaborate briefly on the agricultural policies of the Greek Government. The main objective has been the increase of the agricultural income. This is based on the system of price-policy. The increase of production of certain crops in order to satisfy the needs of the home market together with the development of exports of agricultural products of higher quality standard, have been the two main aspects of this policy.

A parallel stimulus was given to this policy with the granting of substantial credits and other financial measures which are initiated by the Agricultural Bank of Greece. At the same time a process has been undertaken aiming at the harmonization of the agricultural policy of the country with that of the European Economic Community.

The agricultural programme for the ending year has been planned on the basis of long-term prospects for the development of the agricultural income and the amelioration of the living conditions of the farmers, while, at the same time, attention has been given to confront the short-term market fluctuations and the stabilization of the real agricultural income.

In order to achieve in particular the long-term objectives, concrete economic and institutional measures have been taken. These measures aim at crop reorientation, infrastructure projects, land consolidation, improvement of marketing conditions, of fresh and processed agricultural products and, in general, the establishment of the necessary institutional framework and the real conditions which will permit the farmers to raise and sell their products directly to the consumers. The most important of these measures are the following:

a) A special law has been enacted as regards the modification of land tenure and the modernization of farm exploitation.

b) In the field of agricultural cooperation, new legislation has been adopted aiming at the development of agricultural cooperatives, and their activities in the field of production, marketing and processing of agricultural products.

c) In the field of processing of agricultural products, the relevant legislation aims at the protection, support and standardization of the production of certain basic products.


d) In order to better assist the increase of productivity and the protection of the prices of agricultural products emphasis has been given to announce well beforehand the relevant decisions of the government so that farmers can plan their production accordingly, thus determining in advance the area to be cultivated for the sake of a stable income.

Although the forecasts of the 1977 Programme, as regards the level of production, will have to be readjusted because of adverse climatic conditions, in general, the 1977 agricultural programme still aims at the realization of the long-term objectives, better working conditions, higher productivity, improvement of the income of the farmers and a. better future for the agricultural population of our country.

In concluding Mr. Chairman, I wish to assure you that the Greek Delegation will do its very best to contribute positively to the successful conclusion of the 19th Session of the Conference of the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations thus participating in our common efforts to solve successfully the pressing world food problems, with which humanity is today still confronted.

P. DALSAGER (Denmark): First of all, I wish to congratulate you, Mr. Chairman, and your Vice-Chairman, on your election to the Chairmanship of this Session, and I, on behalf of the Danish delegation, would like to thank the Director-General for the work carried out in the FAO Headquarters in order to arrange the Nineteenth Conference of FAO.

My major impression from the documents we have received is that FAO has become a more active organization. FAO wants to strengthen the various measures which may increase agricultural production and hereby help the economic development in the Member Countries. This will, of course, be supported by Denmark.

There is a reason for optimism, since both 1975 and 1976 showed an increase of approximately 4 percent in world food production, and the outlook for 1977 seems promising if you take the world as a whole. The favourable yields of these years have made many empty stores full again. This has given a basis for a better planned and more long-term effort to meet food shortages which prevail in many developing countries.

However, in spite of a better supply situation in the world as a whole, it should be stressed that hunger and malnutrition still exist in many parts of the world, and the development of the latest months in the Sahel countries is a serious reminder.

Food production in developed countries is by and large going in the right direction, but the growth in the developing countries is not satisfactory. The fluctuations in the food prices in the international market create insecurity which ought to be changed.

I am therefore in agreement with the Director-General when he stresses that one of FAO's most important tasks is to help the poorest developing countries more directly in their efforts to increase food production faster. Only through this can their dependence on grain import and food aid be reduced. I therefore find the strengthening of FAO's Investment Centre to be right. FAO's role as an independent investment service agency may consequently be of crucial importance to FAO's Member Countries. I am here thinking of the task to effect an increasing flow of capital from both traditional and new sources for investment in agriculture and the developing countries. Through the regional banks, IBRD, private banks and in other ways.

Further, I attach great importance to the fact that this transfer of capital should be made at reasonable terms so that production is not impeded unnecessary on account of the repayment obligations. It is an important task FAO has taken up here.

I would further like to stress the importance of a close cooperation between FAO and IFAD. From the Danish side we feel satisfied to hear that the pledging target of one thousand million dollars has been reached. Such a development will increase the purchasing power and lead to greater independence and freedom of action. Further, it would stimulate the international trade to the benefit of all countries. I find it necessary, though, to ask you to remember that increasing production in the developing countries on the whole does not automatically lead to a better standard of living and a better nutrition of the poorer population of the poorest countries. We actually know that an increased production in unfortunate situations leads to an even worse position for the poorest people. Often not even the basic human needs are covered. I do hope that FAO therefore will pay attention to the poorest people in the poorest countries. I shall return to this subject in connexion with FAO's work in the field of nutrition and intergrated rural development.


The efforts made to advance and support the production and export of the developing countries are displayed in many international negotiations. The idea of the fund - that is, that the means on easy terms are at disposal of the poorest countries in order to increase food production - is right. I have further noted with satisfaction that the developing countries themselves to a larger extent will get the responsibility for planning and implementation of the projects which are financed by the Fund. This a a step in the right direction, but it is not going to be easy to carry it through.

I feel, however, that the efforts of the developing countries are determining whether the necessary progress will be reached. The technology and know-how of the industrial countries can intensify these efforts of these countries and must naturally be put at disposal whenever possible. It should be stressed that many developing countries still have unused production resources. We must use these resources in future so that growth in production for a longer period of time can reach at least the four percent per annum which was the measure set up in the Second Development Decade of the United Nations.

As an example I can mention the North-South Dialogue which in spite of certain disappointments has resulted in a renewed resolution from the countries to carry through a substantial increase of their development aid.

It should also be mentioned that the industrial countries have agreed on placing an extra one billion dollars at the disposal of the poorest countries.

Further, may be mentioned the present negotiations to establish a raw material fund for the products which need stabilizing measures. The North-South Dialogue has not yet been concluded.

I do hope that in the next round we shall have more dynamic negotiations so we shall have new constructive proposals to improve trade.

The cooperation between FAO and UNCTAD is also important, especially the responsibility of FAO in preparing the UNCTAD negotiations on the integrated commodity programme.

I am attaching great importance to the future multilateral trade negotiations at which I hope there will be an understanding on the necessary international commodity agreement.

The developing countries need to have their trade problems solved in a sensible way which will contribute to a reasonable stability of production.

Finally, it is also important for the developing countries that the problems existing among Japan, the United States and the EEC countries be solved in a way which will secure a stable economic growth in the world.

It is with satisfaction that in the proposed Programme and Medium Term Objectives, I have read that FAO's activities are not only to be viewed as short-term measures, but as a link in a more long-sighted planning.

The Medium Terms Document is, though, according to my opinion too inaccurate in the sense that it seems to be more of a broad catalogue on the future tasks. But without making clear exactly what FAO wishes to give priority to in the years to come. I would request that FAO's next draft on Medium Terms concentrate on the activities which are to be given priority. We shall in Commission II explain our wishes.

I wish to mention, however, that education, nutrition and investment together with an increased effort on fertilizer and seed will get priority from the Danish side.

I should like to recommend that COAG, COFO and COFI be given the possibility to study the new draft on Medium Terms prior to its presentation in FAO's Council and the next Conference.

I find the budget proposal for 1978 and 1979 acceptable, although I would have found it more correct to include all the activities which the Conference has been asked to approve. I advise the Secretariat to do this in connexion with the presentation of the next Programme of Work and Budget.

The cost increase in the proposed budget of 28 million dollars or more than one million dollars a month is tremendous. I do hope that inflation will be less in future. FAO must, however, still keep check on overdrafts due to other circumstances and keep these at a minimum.

I have noted with satisfaction that the number of meetings and documents have been kept at a reasonable level.


I would now like to comment on some of the FAO activities In 1978 and 1979. It seems right to me that FAO should dispose of a technical cooperation programme which fast and effectively can be used in developing countries which are suddenly in a critical position - for instance because of droughts or ruining animal diseases. It is yet too soon to tell whether TCP is the best instrument to solve this type of problem. In order to value the projects and actions which are carried through in future I find it necessary to ask for an evaluation report at the next Conference.

As regards FAO's Field Programmes I regret to find the UNDP financed part of these programmes for the time being reduced in real terms, I hope this will change and that the basis of UNDP-financing will improve ahead. The fact is that the UNDP-financed projects - also in the years to come - in spite of a relatively decreasing importance still will form an important part of FAO activities in the developing countries. It is therefore an interest for all of us that a good and close cooperation between UNDP and FAO shall prevail.

I am fully supporting the statement of the Director-General expressing that coordination and cooperation with UNDP on country level is of decisive importance as to how the means are administered most advantageously for the developing countries.

I can give my full support to FAO's new - I hope dynamic and competent - country representatives. As we all know a good cooperation is a question of having the right people in the posts.

FAO's image and effort in the various countries will further depend upon the ability of the country representatives to cooperate with governments and multilateral and bilateral organizations - also non-governmental organizations.

This leads me to comment on a number of fields at which FAO should pay special attention in future -- fields which will be supported from the Danish as well as the Nordic side. The proposal on post-harvest losses should have high priority. It is unreasonable to work for an increased production without making sure that it will get to the people.

I can support the programme of action and at the same time recommend that the main effort concentrates on the Farm Level where the largest effect can be reached most effectively. Of course, this activity should not stand on its own. It must be an integrated part of all the things we must work on in order to obtain a real progress for all groups of people in rural districts of the developing countries. I am here referring to small farmers development and the necessity for this programme to be integrated in integrated rural development.

From the Danish and the Nordic side we wish all groups of rural people to be included in the economic development and also that FAO to a larger extent pay attention to the woman's role in food production, food handling as well as in nutrition. This is the only way in which FAO can succeed in improving nutrition and an increased standard of living.

It is unsatisfactory that international help - also FAO's - has not improved living conditions in rural districts much more than is the case. So therefore there is a need for a closer international cooperation in order to carry through the integrated rural development programme in which FAO naturally must play an important role. It gives many problems when carrying out such large programmes.

FAO should show inventiveness and ability in order to inspire all groups of rural people to participate.

It is also important to remember that a village society functions as a whole and must grow in harmony. That is why we must look upon the whole - that is agriculture, craft, forestry and maybe also fisheries. At the same time areas such as infrastructure, education and health must be included in the development schemes.

In this connection I would like to mention another important aspect of FAO's work which we in Denmark have always looked upon with a special interest - and that is the question of food and nutrition planning. It is my opinion that this area of FAO's work has been somewhat overshadowed by easier technical tasks.

I do hope that FAO now will live up to the leading and central role which the organization has been given after the Manila Meeting of the World Food Council. It is essential that nutrition be given a much higher priority in the work of the international organizations. FAO's next move in this area is expected with the utmost interest in Denmark.

In connection with the development of agriculture in the developing countries I find it extremely important to pay attention to an area I feel must be looked into in connection with the usage of


agricultural land. I do recommend that FAO intensify its help to the developing countries in their planning of the usage of farm land. The ecological aspects must to a greater extent be included in the planning. I would like to stress though that it is necessary for all countries to preserve farm land in order to secure future food supply.

May I give a few remarks on the activities within the Trust Fund projects, which we from the Danish side consider to be an important part of FAO's policy. Being a small country we find that in some fields where-we have a special expertise we can make a contribution through FAO. Such activities we cannot cope with alone.

I would like to mention the Dairy Training Programme and the Fertilizer Programme where Danish experts for a long time have made their contribution. From the Danish side we shall continue to assist the Dairy Training where we find we have obtained good results.

As regards the Fertilizer Programme we are happy to find that FAO uses the proposal put forward from the Nordic side - that is that the activities of the Fertilizer Programme must be integrated with a larger effort in the other productivity factors.

We have with interest received the Director-General's proposal of new procedures of negotiation in connection with agreements of Trust Fund projects. We hope that this will form a good basis for a continued, cooperation on well-defined work and projects.

It is furthermore important that trust fund projects are integrated in FAO's overall policy. I have mentioned the need for the establishment of satisfactory food security stocks to meet with hunger situations in the developing countries. The present favourable food situation must be used in order to establish an international food reserve in order to cope with price increases and with shortages. The new American grainstocks might in our opinion contribute to the stabilization of the international grain market. It is of great importance to food security and price stability that we can now agree upon a new international grain agreement.

It is my hope that the differences of opinion which may still exist as regards the means of reaching the goal may disappear so that a solution may be found. I would like to stress the importance of having all countries working for these goals which are implied in FAO's undertaking on food security. The setup for the International Food Reserve of up to 500, 000 tons is a step in the right direction.

Let me also say a few words on the World Food Programme which Denmark since its start in 1962· has considered a very important programme. First I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Mr. Vogel, the new Executive Director, with his appointment. It is a very important international organization you are now going to run. We are from the Danish side looking forward to a close cooperation on food aid both in regard to actual tasks and in regard to food policy problems.

At the same time Denmark wishes to thank the former Executive Director, Mr. Robinson, with whom we have had an excellent cooperation.

At this Conference we shall take a decision on the pledging target for 1979-80. I can give my support to the increase from 750 to 950 million dollars. We feel convinced that WFP can administer such an amount and the developing countries need a larger multilateral contribution in the food aid area.

The Danish Government has agreed upon an increase of the Danish contribution to WFP. It has proposed to the Folketing an increase to 100 million Kroner in. 1979 and to 110 million Kroner in 1980.

WFP's work in international development is highly recognized in Denmark and I can therefore assure you of a continued active cooperation.

Mr. Director-General, may I finally wish you and, the members of your staff all the best in your fut' work,

L. CJ. MARTIN (United Kingdom): Can I first of all begin by apologising for the fact that my Minister, Mrs. Hart, is not able to be with us today. This is no formal apology because she is devoted to the cause of development. She is particularly concerned that all that we do to try to help the developing countries should be specially directed at eliminating poverty and at helping the poorer people, and that means also being especially concerned with FAO. She was looking forward very much to being here, but there is important parliamentary business back home, concerned with our own problems of self-government, and so she had to stay there.


Mr. Chairman, I should like to take this opportunity to welcome the new members of FAO, and Conference will understand if I extend a special word of welcome to the Seychelles, because it gives us in the United Kingdom particular pleasure each time a part of the world with which we have had long historic associations takes its rightful, independent part in a gathering of this kind.

Mr. Chairman, I find it difficult, especially in the absence of my Minister - because I am mindful of what was rightly said yesterday about bureaucrats, of whom I am one - to know what there is to add to our discussions after you own vigorous and refreshing speech last Saturday, when you were elected, after the stimulating McDougall memorial address given to us yesterday by Ambassador Young, and after the Director-General's own intervention yesterday afternoon. It would seem to me that on the broad lines of policy we are in the main all agreed and that in many ways there is not a great deal more to be said. But perhaps there are one or two words that need to be added for our benefit during the time that we are here in Rome.

One of the other reasons why my Minister would have wished very much to be here herself was that we wanted to express our appreciation of all that Dr. Saouma has done in his first two years of office to increase the ability of FAO to meet the challenge of the world situation in respect of food and agriculture. It is indeed - and I am not the first to say it - Dr. Saouma whom we must thank for the fact that FAO is now action-orientated. We think that he was right to reduce the number of meetings and to limit the volume of publications, although on the other hand we would not want to underestimate the importance of the basic intellectual activity that goes on in FAO which is of value to both developed and developing countries alike.

Mr. Chairman, Dr. Saouma took office at a time when there were traumatic problems about the main thrust of technical cooperation through the United Nations' system and in particular through the voluntary funding from the UNDP. My Government is one of those that consider the UNDP should indeed be a main source of funding for technical cooperation; but equally we would like to pay tribute to the Director-General's efforts to ensure that FAO plays its essential part in the system of the United Nations without detracting from the work of other parts of the system and without leading to duplication and waste of effort.

The Technical Cooperation Programme is a case in point. We first had some doubts about it but we have now come round to the view that so long as it remains of reasonable size and is essentially for urgent action, then it is a good thing. We have watched it begin with interest; it now has our support. But this brings me on to the general question of money, and we do have financial problems to think about at this particular Conference. It is a matter of the budget for the Regular Programme, the question of a special Reserve Account and the question of the funding of a programme of action for post-harvest losses. Some of us who were here last week for the meeting of the Council before the Conference know just how much time this matter took up. So far as concerns the United Kingdom, the residual problems after the discussions that went on last week are about the post-harvest losses fund and the special reserve, and if these difficulties can be overcome, then I think that the United Kingdom will have not too much difficulty - if any at all - with the level of the budget for the Regular Programme; and believe me, Mr. Chairman, that is quite a big thing to say because it is true that the budgets of the agencies increase all the time and the rate of increase, first of all because of inflation but second also because of determination to have a rate of real increase, means that the budgets each two years seem to be so enormously bigger than they were two years before, and to cause problems. But if the agencies are really doing their developmental job, if they are really being efficient, we are not wasting money. If they are not overloaded with international bureaucrats - and I can hit international bureaucrats because I am simply a national bureaucrat! - then it is money worth spending. And it is one of our tasks to see that the budget that emerges is one that we can defend.

As I have said, Mr. Chairman, I think that so far as concerns FAO you will find that the United Kingdom does not have too much difficulty at this time. On the special Reserve Account, it is possible that just even one adjective would help us to accept the proposal that has been made. There is need for safeguard against unexpected drops, against inflation being worse than you thought it was against the exchange rate not being what you thought it was going to be. But these pockets of money are always looked at a little circumspectly and, so long as it is clearly stated that the Reserve Account is there for purely technical, financial reasons, again I think the United Kingdom will not have a great problem with it.


I said that we would not have too much trouble with the regular budget because as I understood the Director-General last week, when I for one would have liked to have seen him absorb more additional costs than he thinks he can, he did say that already he has to absorb within the budget level- that he has perhaps some extra $800 000 for projects that he knows- will be there but which in fact are not in the printed book and that there may be others coming along, and I appreciate his problems of absorption. Equally there is always a problem for those of us who come here with instructions from our Governments. If at one point in time you have persuaded your Government that it is reasonable to support a budget level of $206. 8 million and then you ring them up and say 'Oh, by the way, that is $211 million now, and what is more there could be two or three million dollars before we're finished''. That makes life very difficult for us- But if you have a Director-General who says ''No, I have fixed my level and I will cope with that situation" then it does become tremendously more easy for us.

Now, I come to the business of post-harvest losses, which has caused us a lot of thinking in the last week and for that matter in the Council of June of this year. There is absolutely no doubt whatever about the importance of having a fund of this kind. You have only to go back to what the Director-General himself said only a day or so ago about the amount of money that could be saved if the losses after harvests were reduced. So no argument at all about the fund. The question is how we start putting money into the fund. Again when Governments like mine are likely to be told ''You will contribute your share of $10 million" that would otherwise come back to you they begin to be a little uneasy. I do not think there is any doubt at all about the willingness of my Government to contribute to the fund at least our share of the $10 million. It is a question of whether you hit us on the head and say we must, or whether you rely on us to do what in any case we want to do, that is to contribute voluntarily. I hope we are all going to come out of this particularly unfortunate problem and that indeed all member states of FAO will say ''Yes, we might have received back our share of $10 million, |but please keep it and use it for funding the post-harvest loss programme ". This is an important psychological point.

I said at the beginning of my intervention that a coarnerstone of the British Government's aid policy is help for the poorest people and the poorest countries and we really are trying to do our best to help. We have voluntarily pledged £18 million for the initial stage of IFAD. We announced last week in the Council that we shall also be contributing £ 5 million more towards the continuation of the International Fertilizer Supply Scheme. Today I can say that additionally - I can say it today because I only just know it - that we are pledging £3 million towards helping to achieve the target of 500 000 thousand tons for an International Emergency Food Reserve. It helps us, who do our best for the United Nations in the specialized agencies, if we are at least allowed to think we are doing something voluntarily rather than being forced to do it.

Can I make one or two final remarks on the question of "basic needs". I do not want to enter into a discussion of exactly what we mean by the phrase and perhaps in many ways this is a matter for the developing countries themselves. We in the United Kingdom think that our policy of poverty-orientated aid in some ways was already ahead of its time. We think we anticipated the ''basic needs" approach without having thought about the phrase "basic needs" but it will be no good increasing agricultural production if there is still unjust and unfair distribution of what is produced. Again this is really a matter for developing countries and it is hardly for us in the developed countries to lecture them about it, to tell them how to organize and run their lives but in fact we do all have a common problem. There is no need for me to elaborate it, the Director-General said it much more effectively yesterday afternoon. It is simply a question of ensuring that those millions in this world who today still go hungry are enabled to have a better standard of living: one could put it even more bluntly and say, today are enabled to start living. I think with that note there is no need for me to say more, especially on top of the eloquence that we had from you, that we have had from Ambassador Young and from the Director-General. The message is quite clear, we know what the challenge is, let us get on with the job.

J. ΕRTL (Germany, Fed. Rep. of) (interpretation from German): First of all I would like to associate my voice with all those who have congratulated you, Mr. Chairman, and the Vice-Charimen on their election. My good wishes also include my expression of gratitude and appreciation to the Director-General and to his staff for the preparation of this Conference and for the work that has been carried out in the interval between the two Conferences.

The world food situation has improved somewhat since we last meet two years ago at the Eighteenth Session of the FAO Conference. While stating this we must recognize the efforts that were made by all concerned. Developing countries as a whole succeeded in the last two years, even though with results that vary from country to country in increasing their agricultural production by an average of 4 percent. Thus they have for the first time reached the target of an annual 4 percent increase in


production which has been set for this decade. This is a remarkable achievement because the result obtained is by no means based exclusively on more favourable weather conditions. On the contrary, substantial efforts of their own were made and these efforts were effectively supported from outside.

However, the improved world food situation, which is marked by an increase in production, by larger stocks, by an increase in trade and an increase, albeit a very slight one, in per capita consumption, does not give rise to satisfaction or even to complacency. On the contrary, one-eighth of mankind is still suffering from hunger or from malnutrition. Hunger still is the cause of an inadequate level of education and knowledge of part of the world population. Hunger therefore still is the reason why millions of people lack the ability or do not recognize to help themselves in an effective way.

The favourable results obtained so far in the fight against hunger should and must, therefore, be an incentive for us to continue this fight even more intensively and even more effectively. In this respect it is necessary first and foremost for each country individually and for all of us together in the community of nations to reflect on what has still to be done and which individual practical measures should be taken.

The broad framework for this has been defined. On the one hand, there are the results of the World Food Conference which was held in 1974. This Conference stated very clearly that the world food problems could be solved in the long term only through a sustained increase of agricultural production in the developing countries themselves and in particular in those where there is a food deficit. The Conference recommended that priority should be given to that task and that the necessary measures should be studied and taken jointly. The response to this challenge was a positive one: most recommendations of the World Food Conference have meanwhile been put into practice or have at least been tackled.

The framework defined also includes the Manila communiqué of the Third Session of the World Food Council which contains further concrete recommendations for a programme of action to eradicate hunger and malnutrition. My Government recognizes in this connexion that agricultural assistance" has to be increased. An important basic pre-requisite for this is that recipient countries should further develop their absorptive capacities and propose appropriate, concrete projects. The necessary support will then not fail to come. In this connexion, let me recall the creation of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) to which my country contributes 55 million US$. This Fund will become operative still this year.

Last but not least there is the mandate and the work of FAO which plays the key role within the United Nations System in our efforts to eradicate hunger and malnutrition.

We are grateful to the Director-General for having submitted to us in good time and in a clear form the Programme of Work for the biennium 1978-79 which aims at expanding the activities of FAO and at orienting them more strongly to practice related measures in member countries.

My Government can support these objectives in principle. As to individual estimates, my delegation still has to express its views. The proposed budget volume - and let me say this quite clearly -provides for the presently highest rate of growth in the United Nations system, and I would like to stress in this connection what was said by the previous speaker from the United Kingdom. The fight against inflation cannot always be carried out by increasing expenditures. We feel that the reorientation of activities should however not lead to FAO's neglecting its unique role as a worldwide forum for agricultural policy, as was shown again this year. Where else if not here, I wonder, should the intellectual preparatory work be done for basic decisions with regard to international food and agricultural policies?

In connection with the planned decentralization and strengthening of work at the country level, I would like to make the following remarks. First, the responsibility of recipient countries for reasonable and effective coordination of all support measures for agriculture at the country level will thus increase further. We welcome this, because we also consider this measure a decisive step towards self-help. It is important in this respect that the measures for the agricultural sector to which priority is due should be incorporated in the overall development policy concept.

Secondly, decentralization and strengthening of the work of our Organization at the country level should not lead to the establishment of new bureaucracies at the country level. This is something I want to stress. The best use should be made of existing facilities. No doubt internationally we have a very strong competition of conferences, of new administrations, and all this costs unnecessary money which could be better used.


We are confident that member states and the Director-General will direct the same special attention to this fact as to the objective assessment of the pilot programme for technical cooperation, (TCP) which the Conference will consider at its next session in two years time.

The mandate as laid down in the preamble to the FAO Constitution reminds us that each one of us individually and we all together should take responsibility for improving the world food situation and rural development. There is enough room and there are enough possibilities for the necessary constructive cooperation in this connexion.

Among the important future tasks, I feel, we should focus our special attention on the following: first, an optimum use and in particular conservation of our natural resources; second, the reduction of food losses, in particular post-harvest losses.

It is difficult, it is perhaps even impossible, to quantify the production areas or rather the production potential which we lose in whole or in part every year as a result of improper use. Land reclamation is no adequate compensation. The areas for land reclamation are limited and are often located in other regions which furthermore are often not suited for long-term agricultural use. The fertility of the areas under cultivation must therefore be maintained and improved. In this connection I also think in particular of the water balance. We all know enough examples where attention was unfortunately only paid to short-term production success of irrigation projects and the importance of adequate drainage measures was underestimated. However, attention is also necessary in the case of arid agriculture if soil structures are to be maintained and erosion is to be prevented. Therefore, I consider the conservation of natural resources as a basis for the desired increase of production a priority task for all of us. We wish and thus must see to it that the basis of living will not be limited for future generations. In this connexion, I would like to recall the discussions at the United Nations Conference on Desertification which was held in Nairobi two months ago.

I believe that the same priority is to be attributed to the second task which I already mentioned, and that is to prevent by all means that food commodities already produced are lost or perish. Without such losses the world food balance situation could be substantially better. The need for a drastic reduction of harvest and post-harvest losses has been clearly recognized above all since the World Food Conference.

The orders of magnitude involved have been shown by the Director-General. A reduction by less than half would already diminish the import requirements for cereals into developing countries by 50 percent expected for 1985. Expressed in monetary terms this would mean an annual saving of some 7. 5 billion U. S. dollars. This is about the amount of money which according to various estimates is deemed necessary as external aid with a view to achieving the intended 4 percent growth of agricultural production in developing countries.

Concrete measures for this priority task have been suggested by the Director-General in the Programme of Work for 1978-79. These proposals are a very good approach. Therefore, my Government gives its support to this Programme, but we have somewhat different ideas with regard to the financing of this Programme. Nevertheless, we shall not oppose a consensus for initially financing the Programme. This should, however, not be considered as a precedent for future programmes or future approaches. I also would like to stress that the voluntary approach is of the greatest importance in this connexion.

In all development policy measures at the country level, priority should be given to this task unless it has already been done. The fight against food losses thus obtains the necessary attention in the countries concerned, in international organizations and among bilateral donors. Such support from outside which goes beyond the proposed measures will in my opinion become necessary. In this connexion I think particularly of the United Nations Development Programme, the International Fund for Agricultural Development and the World Bank. Measures to reduce food losses have been incorporated for long in my Government's bilateral cooperation with developing countries. Let me quote as an example of a supra-regional project of that kind a three-year programme on post-harvest protection for small farms in Africa, the planning stage of which has just been concluded.

The world food situation can be ensured in the long run only if efforts to increase production in developing countries are supplemented by building up adequate stocks, allowing such, countries to surmount unavoidable harvest fluctuation. For some years now we have been cooperating with several developing countries in implementing food security programmes with this aforementioned objective. We are thus one of the active supporters of these FAO programmes. For this purpose we have made available this year an amount of about US $22 million. These food security programmes prevent famine and at the same time they promote greater agricultural production and employment opportunities.

Measures for self-help in developing countries are supported effectively and increasingly by voluntary donations of the German population. In 1976, about DM 400 million alone were raised by the churches for development work. The "Deutsche Welthungerhilfe'', our national committee of the FAO Freedom from


Hunger Campaign, likewise received many donations. Under the patronage of our Federal President, Walter Scheel, it is one of the most active committees of this Action for Development of the FAO, It also supports on an institutional basis national committees in other countries, for example in Ecuador, Kenya, Thailand and Sri Lanka.

Upon the successful and worldwide appreciated work of the World Food Programme which my country supports fully, I would only like to touch briefly, but I do wish to stress in particular the successful work of the food-for-work programmes within the framework of the World Food Programme, which strengthen self-reliance.

With regard to the World Conference on Agrarian Reform and Rural Development scheduled for 1979, I would briefly like to say this: the Government of my country has always given priority to the promotion of integrated rural development, the aim of which is to raise the standard of living of the rural population, to ensure an adequate agricultural production, to preserve landscape and natural resources, to bring about a balanced settlement structure between country and town, and to contribute in this way to a social balance. In this connection, the development of agriculture toward higher productivity can only be brought about within the framework of overall economic development by improving infrastructures and in particular by raising the level of education. Integrated rural development requires, therefore, specially careful preparatory work. It does not only require measures in the agricultural policy sector, but also in various fields of economic and social policies. Experience has shown that uncoordinated individual measures do not lead to the development which is desired in the long-term. Therefore, my government has supported the convening of regional meetings of experts, and one supra-regional meeting of experts dealing with that subject which were organized jointly with FAO. The results obtained there are an important contribution to the Conference. With satisfaction we note that prior to the Conference, as was suggested by us, all important subjects should be discussed at the regional level.

Now I come to my conclusion. The frank exchange of experience on success and failure so far between countries with similar conditions promises, in my view, the greatest benefit. The subsequent worldwide discussion could then lead to a varied palette of possible solutions from which every country can the choose the most suitable for itself.

I would like to make a few brief remarks on my own country's agriculture. After a moderate harvest in 1976, we were able to bring in a good harvest this year. Irrespective of certain fluctuations in yields, we are always in a position to make our contribution to food aid and to international agricultural trade. Our own agriculture contributes 77 percent to overall domestic food consumption, including production from imported foodstuffs. We continue our endeavours to make it possible for exporting developing countries to find adequate outlets for agricultural products in our markets. Our imports of food commodities from developing countries have continuously increased in 1976 compared to 1975 by 23 percent in terms of value.

My country has cooperated so far in a constructive way and wherever necessary and possible in solving the world food problems. In this common fight against hunger and malnutrition you can continue to count on us in future.

I wish you and everybody who participates in this work the greatest possible success.

G. HAIDEN (Austria) (interpretation from German): On behalf of the Austrian delegation, I also should like to congratulate you, Mr. Chairman, and the Vice-Chairmen on your election to these responsible posts, and I would also like to express to the Director-General and to his staff our great gratitude for the careful preparation of this Conference. Also, on behalf of my delegation I would like to welcome the new members of this Organization.

It is an honour and a pleasure for me to explain to the Plenary of the FAO Conference the principles of Austrian agricultural policy, and to deal with the problems of world agriculture and food economy. In the previous Session of the Conference the hope was expressed that national delegations should report on their investment activities, and this is why I would like to make a few remarks on this situation first.

The general economic situation in Austria in 1977 was obviously also caused by world economic developments. I am, however, fully justified in remarking that in our country we have succeeded in recent in maintaining full employment in spite of the sweeping international economic decline. The rate of unemployment of 1. 8 percent in Austria is one of the lowest in Europe. We are satisfied with the dynamics of industry and the economy in our country, and have concentrated our economic policy on the maintenance of full employment and ensuring stability and prosperity, as well as on the reduction of our deficits in the balance of goods and services.


Agriculture and forestry in Austria are essential parts of our economy, although in 1976 the share of agriculture and forestry in the gross national policy amounted only to 5. 3 percent, the value of the final production reached $3. 25 million and set a new record. Our agricultural policy concentrates on the further improvement of incomes of rural families by means of a well-balanced production, marketing and price policy, the improvement of agricultural structure and the continuing modernization and rationalization of farms, the promotion of cooperation within and between farms in all fields, the development of rural infrastructures and the development of education in all areas on the rural levels.

The Austrian Government has reinforced its firm position for mountain regions with the intention of reducing regional income disparities. This shows we also have such disparities. In order to achieve these targets, we make use of a well balanced instrument of promotion which is based upon our Green Plan. The promotional policy of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry is implemented mainly in the form of low-interest loans or allowances. Next year, the volume of low-interest agricultural investments and the loans will amount to $153 million, while within the framework of the Green Plan and of a mountain farm programme, Austrian agriculture will have available $86 million in 1978. In 1976 alone, agricultural investment loans amounting to $123 million were granted to nearly ten thousand farmers. The interest rate is usually 5 percent, the loan period is on the average ten years.

Austria is traditionally an agricultural exporting country. In large parts of our country farmers have to rely on livestock breeding and husbandry and timber production. They do not have any productional alternatives, and we have therefore always supplied livestock for slaughter and the breeding purposes as well as timber to neighbouring countries.

Throughout the world agricultural production and agricultural trade is changing. Countries which used to be traditionally agricultural exporters now have importing requirements. Countries which were major purchasers of agricultural products now export them themselves.

What we desire for our country is that agriculture be not cut off from its traditional foreign markets by protectionist measures. An OECD study which deals with world trends for measured supply and demand of agricultural products, and which is necessarily of special interest for the orientation of production also arrives at the following conclusions: the production capacity of OECD members will enable them in future also to cover the food deficit in other regions. Western Europe will have no import requirements for grains in 1985. The Western European beef deficit will oscillate around the same figure In 1985 as in the early 1970s. The surplus problem with dairy products will still not be solved by 1985. Of course, the actual trends will depend upon the future developments of economic growth and the rate of increase of the world population.

As far as the world food situation is concerned, we all must be aware of the fact that coordinated international measures are necessary to lead mankind out of the situation of instability of food supplies. In this connection, it is interesting to point out that this OECD study indicates that in 1985 the demand of developing countries for grains exceeds their domestic production by 200 million tons. This fact shows how important the measures announced by the Director-General for the prevention of food losses are.

Since agriculture plays an important part in the foreign trade in the countries of the Third World, terms of trade are of essential importance. International efforts to achieve assured sales at assured prices for raw materials thus needs to be given priority. Austria therefore emphasizes the necessity of computing international commodity agreements as rapidly as possible.

The success of the recently completed International Sugar Agreement can be taken to be an encouraging example for all of us. Austria will give its support to all measures which bring the world closer to a new economic order by concerted measures such as an integrated raw materials programme and a common fund as in the programme of IFAD,

My Government welcomes the Programme of Work and Budget of FAO as submitted to us in document C 77/3. We should make all endeavours to solve agricultural and food problems by means of selected priorities.

As regards the involvement of national institutions in the work of FAO, may I be allowed to point out that I appreciate this initiative. It is in Europe that the creation of scientific networks has shown how useful this cooperation can be, not only for the European region, but primarily for the developing countries.

As to the appointment of FAO country representatives, we welcome cooperation with the United Nations Development Programme, since we believe that this will avoid a certain degree of duplication. As far as the work of the Technical Cooperation Programme is concerned, we are of the opinion that this means should be used only for specific projects to be sure that the financing would have to be fully in accordance with FAO regulations.


As regards the strengthening of technical activities, I should like to point out that for some years now my country has advocated the strengthening of technical work and a reduction of FAO's administrative expenditures. Therefore I should like to congratulate the Director-General of FAO on his consistent policy of stopping the increase of administrative expenditures. Starting with the finance of the 1973 Seed Symposium my country gave particular support to activities in this field. This is of course within the possibilities of a small country.

In this connection I may mention that within the framework of the projects of the Austrian National Committee with the Freedom-from-Hunger Campaign/Action for Development, next year a seed training course will be financed in two developing countries. Furthermore, I hope that the teaching material for these courses, which will be completed very soon, will prove an essential training instrument in this sector. Likewise activities designed to reduce crop losses were given full support by my country in recent years. Thus in cooperation with the People's Republic of Benin a project concerning the establishment of eight maize silos was successfully completed.

In support fo FAO's Fertilizer Programme Austria provided experts, and a demonstration project in Nigeria was launched in cooperation with FAO. Furthermore, a demonstration project in Indonesia was assisted by Austria with a substantial contribution in kind.

Let me now make some remarks concerning the forestry sector. With 44 per cent of the national territory covered by forests my country has many years' experience in the field of forestry, starting with the experience of the first training course on forest roads and logging in mountain forests, which was organized in Austria in June 1975, and which gave excellent results. The second course is now being prepared in consultation with the FAO competent bodies. This course will be held in June 1978 at Austrian federal forest training institutes.

Finally, I should like to mention that within the framework of the FAO expert scheme the Austrian forestry experts have in recent years assisted FAO in its activities in the developing countries.

As regards the work of the European region, we attribute particular importance to the activity of the European Commission on Agriculture and of the European Forestry Commission.

I have read with interest the policy statement of the Director-General of FAO on the occasion of the Tenth FAO Regional Conference in Europe held in Bucharest in 1976. Austria shares the view that the work of the European Region is of special importance for the other regions of the World. The work of the European Regions should here not be underestimated. In particular, the activities of the scientific networks seem to me to be specially worth mentioning. Austria has therefore declared its willingness to act as the European Coordination Centre in the pesticide network.

Furthermore, we attribute particular significance to the activity of the working party on Home Economics. I trust that this work will be given its due place in the FAO budget. Moreover, my country endorses also the efforts of FAO to reduce administrative costs as mentioned before.

As to the increase of the number of members in the FAO Council, Austria supports this increase from 42 to 49 members. This would seem to guarantee that smaller countries also would have the possibility to cooperate actively in this governing body of FAO.

Concerning the activities of the World Food Programme, 1 should like to emphasize that from the Austrian point of view the use of food for projects aiiiiir? at the pr: motion of economic and social development is fully endorsed. Austria has supported the activities of the World Food Programme actively since its foundation. In 1977/78 a total of about 3. 7 million dollars being provided, partly in cash and partly in kind, and I believe that this is very important.

As regards the activities of the International Fund for Agricultu-il Development, I should like to state from the Austrian point of view that we give our full support to the close cooperation with IFAD with already existing organizations, especially with FAO. Subject to the consent of Parliament, the Austrian Federal Government has provided an Austrian contribution aitunting to 4. 8 million US dollars for the initial phase of IFAD.

The industrialized countries jointly, as well as the countries in the process of industrialization which have the necessary financial resources, clearly have the moral ligation to give their long-term support to the mobilization of the production potential of developing e-vmtries and thus to help in reducing the worldwide disparity between the developed regions and the sloping regions. Today it is widely agreed that we need a new international economic order, which is of the most important prerequisites for the establishment of better and more equitable social ecaimic conditions. Such an order aiming primarily at satisfying the basic need of mankind will call for new form of international cooperation, above all for the creation of infrastructures which are necessary for social and economic progress in the developing countries.


At a very early stage of international discussion on these matters, Dr. Bruno Kreisky, the Austrian Federal Chancellor, proposed that developing countries, particularly those in Africa, should be enabled within the framework of a large-scale international plan to develop their infrastructure rapidly, mainly in the field of communications. In view of the size of the task before us, and above all of the means required, this approach should best be compared with the Marshall Plan, which was decisive for the reconstruction of Europe after World War II. We noted with great satisfaction that following an African proposal the Conference for International Economic Cooperation agreed in principle on such international measures designed to improve infrastructures in Africa, mainly in the field of communications.

Finally, the summer session of ECOSOC envisaged the adoption of a resolution concerning promulgation by the General Assembly of the United Nations of a transport and communications decade in Africa for the years 1978 to 1988. My country emphatically endorses the resolution, and the Austrian Federal Government is willing to cooperate actively and constructively in the implementation of these objectives, since this would be an essential part of the integrated development of rural areas. All these questions cannot be separated from those which are of immediate concern to FAO. However important the World Food Programme, however essential food supplies are at the present stage of development, what we need is the development of agriculture itself, and the development of agriculture will be possible only if an adquate infrastructure exists and the necessary communications network is available.

You may see from my statement that Austria will continue to attribute the greatest importance to the work of FAO and will always endeavour to make a constructive contribution to the activities of the Organization. I should like to express the hope that my country could thus assist in the promotion of agricultural development as well as in maintaining peace and security in a just world. Austria will always give its support to the measures taken by FAO.

N. FUJIYAMA (Japan): Mr. Chairman, thank you very much for giving me the floor.

First of all, I wish to associate myself with the previous speakers in congratulating you on your unanimous election to this high post.

Let me also pay sincere tribute to Director-General Mr. Saouma for his continuous efforts towards the practical implementation of FAO policy.

I should also like to extend a hearty welcome to the representatives of those countries which have become new members of this Organisation. It goes without saying that the more countries that participate in FAO activities, the more useful will the Organization be in solving food and agriculture problems, which have a multiplicity of aspects, differing from region to region throughout the world.

The tight world food situation since 1972 has been tending to ease owing to good weather conditions in most regions, in addition to the decline in the cost of agricultural input with the end of the oil crisis which began in 1973. This has resulted in a substantial increase in cereal stocks, with the present level at 18% of world consumption. We are of the view that the world is now in a fairly favourable situation regarding food and agricultural production.

However, when we look at human economic activity, we see how vulnerable or sensitive are agricultural activities to natural phenomena, in comparison with other areas of production. Agricultural produce is one of the basic human needs, and price levels fluctuate considerably in response to supply movements. Bearing this in mind, we must do our utmost to ensure a stabilized supply. In this respect, I should like to emphasize again that it is desirable that all countries should participate in the Global Information and Early Warning System on Food and Agriculture, which was established according to our proposal at the WFC, and should also exchange information which will enable us to cope promptly with an emergency.

My delegation believes that the stockpiling of agricultural produce as a safeguard against shortages will help to ensure a greater stability in food supply. There also exists the necessity to promote research activity to harness natural conditions, within the bounds of possibility, and thus we believe that the goal of increased food production may be achieved.

Since my country has to secure a stable supply of food for more than one hundred million people with very limited land resources, domestic agricultural productivity must be increased. In awareness of this fact, in May 1975, my Government drew up "The Long-Term Prospects for Agricultural Demand and Production", with 1985 as the target year for its programme. Since then, the Government has endeavoured to improve domestic production systems and to increase over-all agricultural self-sufficiency. In other words, taking into account the fact that the agricultural sector was weakened in the process of achieving an industry-oriented high growth rate economy, my Government has resolved to bring out


the potential capacity of the agricultural sector through an agricultural policy for production, structure and prices.

Furthermore, taking into consideration that our domestic consumption of certain agricultural products is considerably dependent upon overseas sources of supply, and that Japan imports a large volume of agricultural produce, costing $11. 6 billion, the Government of Japan exchanges information with major food-exporting countries in order to be prepared for fluctuation in the supply of food from abroad. There is also an endeavour to maintain the necessary stocks in accordance with the International Undertaking on World Food Security.

I should now like to refer to food and agriculture problems in the developing countries. which still ' remain unsolved.

To the developing countries, food and agricultural problems have a dual significance. One is that food problems are directly related to survival. Miserable crop failures have often been experienced, and a way of prevention has yet to be found. The other significance is that their economic development is based on agriculture. That is, agricultural development is an indispensable factor in the economic growth of the developing countries.

My Government, fully recognizing the importance of food and agriculture problems in the developing countries, has given food aid and also economic cooperation for increased food production, aiming at agricultural self-sufficiency in the developing countries.

In the Conference on International Economic Cooperation, my Government committed itself to increase effectively and substantially its Official Development Assistance over the years, and expressed its intention to more than double its Official Development Assistance in five years. Furthermore, my Government expressed its intention to make efforts to the best of its ability to realize the Special Action Programme, which contributes to the solution of the balance of payment problems of low-income developing countries, and to make positive contribution to such concerted efforts, promising a total of $114 million in concessional bilateral assistance. In the OECD, together with other member nations, we emphasized our awareness of the necessity of aid meeting basic human needs in the Declaration on Relations with developing countries. We believe that food and agricultural aid is part of aid meeting basic human needs and that it must be increased in the future.

In this connection, the Government of Japan contributed positively to the establishment of IFAD and has deposited the instrument of ratification of IFAD with the Secretary-General of the United Nations, and at the same time informing him that our contribution will amount to $55 million.

In addition, during the official visit of Japanese Prime Minister Fukuda to the ASEAN nations and Burma, our Prime Minister promised various economic cooperation in food and agriculture, including a food loan and assistance programmes for increased food production.

However, it is clear that the developing countries themselves should take an active part in their food and agricultural development. We sincerely hope that the developing countries will promote their own agricultural development plans, with the goal of achieving agricultural self-sufficiency.

I now wish to touch briefly on some of the major agenda items of the Conference.

First, with regard to International Agricultural Adjustment, the progress of which is to be reviewed here, my delegation is of the view that the agricultural adjustment should be carried out under the responsibility of the Member States, in keeping with their natural, economic and social circumstances. Moreover, we believe that policy guidelines for International Agricultural Adjustment should be regarded as general principles, which the Member States should voluntarily take into account when formulating relevant policies and taking necessary action, and that the data obtained in the course of FAO monitoring should also be regarded as a reference, which the member countries will voluntarily take into account in the formulation and implementation of their agricultural policies.

Second, with regard to the prevention of food losses, my Government has given economic cooperation in such fields as food processing, with the full recognition that the prevention of food losses is a significant factor in solving the food problems of the developing countries.

It is expected that the developing countries will carry out basic research and surveys and work towards making national plans and establishing adequate domestic systems for agriculture. FAO is to play an important role, cooperating with the developing countries by providing technical knowledge. The agricultural cooperation of the developed countries should always be coordinated with the efforts of the developing countries.


The 200 mile fishing zone has now been established as a new order of international law. In line with recent international developments in the maritime order, my Government has also decided to set up a 200 mile fishing zone. My Government is determined to make positive efforts in the creation of a fair and stable order of the sea which will be acceptable to all countries.

Japan, as a country which obtains half of its animal protein "in the form of fish protein, is deeply concerned with, conservation and optimum utilisation of the marine resources. These resources are and will continue to be important as animal protein resources under any order of the sea. It is the sincere hope of my Government that each country will also give due consideration to conservation and optimum utilisation of marine resources.

Accordingly, we would like FAO to analyse the state of marine resources in the world and assist the developing countries in promoting their fishing industries.

I should like next to mention some aspects of the FAO 1978-79 budget which are of particular interest to my Government. We believe that budget growth could be avoided by curtailing unnecessary expenses and by internal transfer of resources. In this respect, we fully support the Director-General in

his firm determination to economise in the organisation of FAO, and we earnestly hope that such efforts will be further continued.

With regard to the TCP and food losses which are of concern to many member countries, we realise the need for efficient and flexible management of the budget. However, it is also important to abide by the budget principles which are common to any organisation. Therefore, we should like to point out that if our budget principles are changed in an attempt to respond to every passing need and changing circumstances, there is even the possibility of endangering the very financial resources of FAO,

Mr. Chairman, I have given our comments on major aspects of world food and agriculture as well as the policy which is now being implemented in Japan. I have to recognise that there is no quick remedy to solve the world's food and agricultural problems. It will take a long time to attain our goal, a world in which all people will enjoy sufficient food. But, if we are to attain that goal, I firmly believe that constant dialogue and co-operation between the nations of the world must be maintained.

P. MEHAIGNERIE (France): Monsieur le Président, Messieurs les délégués. Je tiens tout d'abord à vous féliciter, Monsieur le Président, pour votre élection à la présidence de cette Conférence et je suis sur que vous mènerez à bien la lourde mission qui vous a été confiée.

Pourquoi sommes-nous si nombreux, Ministres de l'agriculture de nos pays respectifs, à être venus participer personnellement à cette 19ème session de la Conférence de l'Organisation pour l'alimentation et l'agriculture, en ce mois de novembre 1977?

- Pour le plaisier d'être à Rome - bien sûr. . .

- Pour l'intérêt de nous retrouver entre responsables politiques compétents, proches des producteurs agricoles et familiers des problèmes concrets - certainement. . .

- Mais également, je le pense, pour deux autres raisons:

. parce que nous sommes tous, à des titres et à des degrés divers, soucieux des perspectives d'évolution de la situation de l'agriculture dans le monde et dans nos pays et que nous sommes conscients de la nécessaire solidarité qui doit nous réunir, comme elle doit réunir les producteurs agricoles eux-mêmes,

. et aussi pour saluer l'importance et la qualité du travail accompli depuis deux ans au sein de cette Institution.

Il y aura bientôt deux ans, en effet, Monsieur le Directeur général, que vous avez été porté à la tête de la FAO. Les pays qui vous avaient donné leur appui ne peuvent être déçus des espoirs mis en vous car, avec un dynamisme et une énergie inlassables, vous avez su donner à cette grande maison de la famille des Nations-Unies une impulsion nouvelle et lui faire prendre un véritable tournant.

La lutte contre la faim et la malnutrition dans le monde passe en effet avant tout par des actions concrètes, sur le terrain, au coeur des vrais problèmes, au niveau des producteurs agricoles et des populations rurales. Vous avez eu raison de mettre en oeuvre un programme de-coopération technique en mettant l'accent sur la production de semences, la mise en valeur des terres et des eaux, la protection des plantes, la santé animale et la formation des hommes. Il est judicieux d'orienter ce programme vers les actions d'urgence et les projets d'action rapide, en veillant à la cohérence des opérations et à leur réelle insertion dans les politiques de développement de la production agricole et de promotion du monde rural.


La crise des années 1974/1975, dont nous nous relevons lentement, tous autant que nous sommes, pays en développement comme pays développés, a mis en lumière le rôle fondamental de l'agriculture. Nous n'avions pas nous-mêmes à en être persuadés mais, et c'est peut-être paradoxalement l'un des effets positifs de cette crise, les hommes politiques, les grands responsables de nos économies et de nos finances, et l'opinion publique en général ont redécouvert l'importance et l'intérêt de maintenir et de développer leur potentiel agricole dans un contexte de lutte contre, le sous-emploi, de rétablissement des balances de commerce extérieur, de sécurité et de garantie des approvisionnements. A cela s'ajoute bien sûr, pour les pays en développement les plus gravement touchés et victimes en outre de grandes calamités naturelles, la nécessité vitale de lutter contre la famine.

Devant cette situation la FAO avait, et a toujours, une mission particulière à remplir, celle de catalyseur et d'aiguillon pour orienter les actions et les politiques, nationales et internationales, dans le sens de la priorité à l'agriculture.

Cela ne doit pas cependant faire perdre de vue l'effort de rigueur budgétaire qui s'impose à nous dans la conjoncture actuelle, qu'il s'agisse de nos nations ou de nos organisations internationales. Je ne puis qu'approuver, à cet égard, ce qui a été dit par plusieurs de nos collègues européens.

Il en est de même de votre pro'gramme de lutte contre les pertes après récoltes. L'objectif est légitime: je sais qu'il est inadmissible que les augmentations de rendement soient parfois anéanties par des pertes après récoltes atteignant ou dépassant 40 pour cent. Le stockage et la conservation des récoltes sont les prolongements indispensables de l'activité de production; ils doivent être mis en oeuvre le plus possible par les agriculteurs eux-mêmes; ils sont indispensables, non seulement à la sécurité d'approvisionnement, mais aussi à la stabilisation des marchés, sans laquelle il ne peut y avoir de développement ordonné et maîtrisé de la production.

Cependant, en ce qui concerne la procédure de financement, nous souhaitons qu'une formule respectueuse des règles adoptées par la Conférence elle-même il y a 2 ans, se dégage des discussions que les délégués vont avoir dans la Commission compétente. En effet, lorsqu'il s'agit de procédure financière, tous les états membres et l'institution elle-même ont le plus grand intérêt à recherche un consensus.

La France souscrit à vos grandes orientations, Monsieur le Directeur général. Elle le fait d'autant plus volontiers que, vous le savez, Monsieur le Président, Messieurs les délégués, elle a pris l'initiative, il y a deux ans également, de proposer que s'instaure un véritable dialogue pour la recherche d'un nouvel ordre économique mondial. La Conférence de Paris pour la coopération économique internationale, encore appelée Dialogue Nord-Sud, a eu des résultats certes incomplets mais tangibles qui doivent être approfondis et matérialisés au sein des diverses instances compétentes des Nations-Unies ou de négociations économiques internationales. Dans le secteur agricole un consensus s'était dégagé à Paris, il a été confirmé et renforcé à Manille lors de la dernière réunion du Conseil mondial de l'alimentation. Je suis sûr que la présente Conférence avancera dans la même voie.

Le thème général que vous nous avez proposé est à cet égard parfaitement judicieux. Comment en effet ne pas placer le problème des investissements au coeur de nos actuelles. préoccupations?

Dans la conjoncture défavorable que nous traversons il est fondamental de faire les bons choix, de ne pas sacrifier le moyen terme au court terme, car nos ressources sont limitées et les besoins, dans le secteur agricole comme ailleurs, sont immenses.

Mais avant de s'interroger sur les choix, ne faut-il pas réfléchir sur les conditions de la réussite des investissements, quels qu'ils soient? J'en vois pour pa part deux, la liberté et la sécurité.

Par liberté je n'entends pas anarchie, ou libéralisme, ou "laisser faire - laisser aller", mais possibilité de pleine expression de la responsabilité individuelle. En agriculture toutparticulièrement rien ne peut remplacer l'initiative des producteurs, mais si elle doit être orientée ou canalisée, et les fruits de l'initiative ne doivent pas être confisqués ou détournés au profit unique de l'Etat ou d'une autre catégorie sociale. Il ne peut y avoir développement de la production agricole si les agriculteurs se découragent et le découragment nait souvent de l'inexistence ou de la dilution de liens personnels entre l'homme, la terre et sa production.

La liberté ne va pas sans risques et ces risques doivent être consciemment assumés. Ce qui veut dire qu'il ne faut pas produire n'importe quoi, n'importe comment. . . et à n'importe quel moment.

Mais il faut néanmoins à l'agriculteur, plus qu'à tout autre agent de production, un minimum de sécurité. Sécurité de ses biens ou d'un minimum de pérennité de son outil de travail qu'est la terre, sécurité de sa personne devant la maladie, les accidents et la vieillesse, sécurité de son revenu face aux aléas climatiques et aux fluctuations brutales des prix.

Liberté, sécurité et j'ajouterai l'indispensable considération pour les agriculteurs, se conjuguent pour créer la confiance et la confiance est le préalable à l'investissement.


Cette confiance doit être créée ou améliorée au sein de chaque pays; elle doit également exister au niveau international, de façon que les aides publiques ou privées, en nature ou en espèces, se dirigent réellement vers les secteurs estimés prioritaires. A ce titre la stabilisation des cours des produits agricoles de base sur les marchés mondiaux est un impératif absolu, en veillant au maintien d'un équilibre entre les intérêts des producteurs qui souhaitent les prix les plus élevés possibles, et ceux des consommateurs dont le pouvoir d'achat, surtout en ce moment, est fragile et limité. Pays exportateurs et pays importateurs doivent s'entendre et se répartir harmonieusement les responsabilités qu'implique la stabilisation, mais je ne fais ici que rappeler les principes de la résolution 93 IV de la CNUCED à Nairobi, à laquelle la France a entièrement souscrit.

Quant au problème des investissements, je distinguerai les trois domaines suivants: l'homme, le produit, l'espace, et je vous ferai part brièvement de ce que je vois comme priorités dans chacun d'entre eux.

L'homme, tout d'abord. Quoi de plus naturel, et de plus urgent, que d'investir pour améliorer sa dignité? Qu'il s'agisse de sa santé, de son éducation, de son logement et de ses conditions de vie en général, d'énormes efforts restent à entreprendre. Et cela n'est pas indifférent pour le développement de la production agricole, nous le savons tous et connaissons les exemples de vastes territoires impropre a l'agriculture du seul fait de l'existence de maladies endémiques, de l'insuffisance d'infrastructures générales, d'équipement et de communications. La sous-nutrition, bien évidemment, est-elle aussi une atteinte à la dignité humaine et les actions d'aide alimentaire doivent être renforcées essentiellement pour permettre de briser le cercle vicieux de la faim. Il faut saluer, à cet égard, l'activité du Programme alimentaire mondial et concentrer les interventions, autres que celles d'urgence, sur les projets permettant de faire véritablement décoller les productions vivrières. Il a souvent été dit que l'aide alimentaire ne doit pas décourager la production agricole des pays bénéficiaires: cela est vrai, mais ne doit cependant pas servir d'alibi aux éventuels donateurs. L'essentiel est que l'aide alimentaire et les actions de développement qui leur sont liées s'appliquent au niveau des petits paysans eux-mêmes.

Mais je veux surtout insister sur l'investissement de formation des hommes et le role que peut jouer la coopération technique en ce domaine.

Le plus sûr moyen d'assurer sur des bases solides et durables le développement de la production agricole est de donner aux agriculteurs, et à ceux qui les encadrent et les assistent, les connaissances et la technologie adaptées à leurs problèmes. Les expériences d'assistance étrangère n'ont malheureusement pas toujours été positives, sans doute parce qu'elles avaient été conçues et réalisées de façon trop hâtive, en oubliant ou en analysant insuffisamment les données locales, humaines et techniques, en se contentant de plaquer des modèles pré-établis. Et pourtant, et je pense que personne ne le conteste, la coopération technique est indispensable et enrichissante lorsqu'elle est conçue comme un partage d'expériences, aussi bien entre pays en développement eux-mêmes qu'entre pays développés et pays en développement. Et les expériences en question ne doivent pas seulement être celles des ingénieurs, des administrateurs ou des techniciens mais aussi, et surtout, celles des agriculteurs. Je commençais mon propos en parlant de solidarité, je crois profondément à celle qui peut réunir les hommes de la terre où qu'ils soient et d'où qu'ils viennent. Et je me félicite que dans mon pays des initiatives de ce genre aient été prises, tendant au rapprochement et à la collaboration d'organisations professionnelles agricoles, familiales et rurales, à l'échelle de petites régions et pour des projets certes limités mais bien définis. Je crois à l'avenir de telles opérations et je pense que, mieux que d'autres, elles permettront d'assurer le réel transfert de technologie sur lequel repose l'idée même de coopération.

Dans le domaine des produits j'insisterai tout particulièrement sur les investissements nécessaires en matière de recherche, et notamment pour les productions vivrières. Tout le monde a en mémoire les résultats spectaculaires de l'introduction des nouvelles variétés par la "révolution verte'' mais, outre que l'on s'était mal préparé aux conséquences des augmentations de rendement, cela n'a pas empêché les effroyables famines qui se sont produits peu après dans certaines régions du monde. Il ne faut pas cesser d'améliorer nos connaissances en matière de semences, d'utilisation d'engrais et de pesticides, de lutte biologique contre les ennemis des cultures, d'état sanitaire des troupeaux, de pratiques culturales, de toxicité des produits agricoles, et, là encore, le faire par un échange d'expériences et non en transférant purement et simplement des expérimentations faites sous d'autres climats et avec d'autres hommes. Il ne s'agit pas de faire de la recherche au rabais, loin de là, mais de promouvoir une recherche adaptée aux conditions locales. Il faut se garder cependant de tout gaspillage en hommes et en moyens et mettre en oeuvre la plus grande coopération internationale en ce domaine, sur des thèmes bien précis. Je crois que celui des économies d'énergie et de la protection de l'environnement est à cet égard devenu prioritaire pour nous tous car il n'est pas incompatible avec le développement de la production agricole. Ici encore je me félicite que la France, dont le potentiel de recherche agricole est important, contribue sans relâche à l'amélioration des moyens mis à la disposition des pays en développement.


Et enfin, l'espace. J'ai déjà évoqué l'importance de l'aménagement rural pour que la bonne volonté naturelle de l'agriculteur ne soit pas stérilisée par les difficultés inhérentes à de mauvaises conditions de vie. Mais la maîtrise des facteurs de production agricole n'est pas moins indispensable et, en premier lieu, vient la maîtrise de l'eau. L'imagination de l'homme a toujours été fertile en ce domaine et certaines régions du monde, en particulier dans les pays en développement, sont depuis longtemps des modèles d'aménagement hydraulique, grâce à la ténacité et aux prouesses des hommes qui les habitent et les mettent en valeur.

Il reste néanmoins énormément à faire, à l'échelle de vastes zones, en Afrique notamment où la production agricole a le plus de difficultés à augmenter. Il y a certes de grands investissements à réaliser pour de grands ouvrages d'irrigation mais l'accent ne doit-il pas être mis en même temps sur une meilleure utilisation des ressources existantes, notamment par le drainage et par l'exploitation des nappes souterraines? Tout le monde en convient et l'on se préoccupe plus que par le passé de ce qu'il a été convenu d'appeler la petite hydraulique, mise en oeuvre au niveau des parcelles par les. agriculteurs eux-mêmes.

Facteur de production encore plus important, bien sûr, est le sol. Rien ne doit être épargné pour lutter contre sa disparition, contre l'érosion et la désertification. Des "barrages verts" sont en projet ou en cours de réalisation dans les principaux pays concernés et l'effort d'assistance internationale à ces entreprises capitales doit être augmenté. La France, là-aussi, a des expériences et des hommes à mettre à la disposition de ceux qui le désireraient.

L'espace, c'est aussi un problème de structures agraires. Presque tous les pays, développés ou en développement, sont à cet égard confrontés à des situations difficiles; chacun doit trouver, en fonction de ses propres contraintes politiques et humaines, les solutions qui conviennent. Il serait vain d'investir sans que parallèlement une amélioration fondamentale des structures foncières ai été menée à bien.

Monsieur le Président, Messieurs les délégués, je ne sais si j'ai répondu à ce que souhaitait le Directeur général sur le thème des investissements nationaux et internationaux. Je me suis exprimé en ingénieur agronome que je suis, avec la modeste expérience de coopération technique que j'ai acquise, et permettez au Ministre, représentant le Gouvernement français, de conclure en affirmant la volonté de mon pays de souscrire sa contribution à la réalisation de l'objectif d'accroissement des engagements internationaux en faveur de l'aide au développement, et tout particulièrement en faveur de l'agriculture et du monde rural, comme cela a pu être vérifié au cours des récentes années.

Je ne veux pas terminer, Monsieur le Président, sans saluer l'entrée de nouveaux Etats Membres au sein de notre Organisation et souhaiter à la Conférence de conclure heureusement ses travaux.

M, FARIS (Maroc) (interprétation de l'arabe): Monsieur le Président, Excellences, Mesdames, Messieurs, Permettez-moi tout d'abord, Monsieur le Président, de vous féliciter pour votre brillante élection à la présidence de notre assemblée, élection qui est un hommage rendu aussi bien à vos qualités personnelles qu'à votre pays. Je voudrais également souhaiter la bienvenue aux nouveaux Etats qui viennent d'être admis au sein de notre Organisation et les féliciter de leur brillante élection.

Je voudrais aussi exprimer notre amicale sympathie au Directeur général, Monsieur Edouard Saouma, qui a assumé depuis bientôt deux ans la lourde tâche de diriger notre Organisation ainsi que notre considération pour les efforts qu'il ne cesse de déployer pour entamer la décentralisation des structures de la FAO, renforcer " l'action de terrain" et mobiliser ainsi toutes les potentialités de notre Organisation en vue d'un accroissement rapide de la production alimentaire dans le monde.

Au cours de ces dernières années, nous avons assisté à plusieurs rencontres internationales touchant directement ou indirectement le domaine agricole et aboutissant dans la plupart des cas à la création de Fonds d'investissements agricoles ou d'organismes intergouvernementaux permanents. La Conférence mondiale de l'alimentation, le Dialogue Nord-Sud, la Conférence sur la lutte contre la désertification et, bientôt, la Conférence sur la Réforme agraire sont autant de rencontres internationales qui aboutissent à des plans d'action visant la protection de notre monde contre la faim et la misère.

La mise en oeuvre de ces plans d'action est subordonnée dans une large mesure à la mobilisation et a l'orientation vers le secteur agricole de nouvelles et importantes ressources humaines et financières.

C'est ainsi que le programme d'action qui vise à réduire les pertes de denrées alimentaires et qui constitue le thème principal de notre conférence nécessiterait selon l'estimation de notre Conseil une dotation spécifique de 20 millions de dollars. Sa mise en oeuvre permettrait, par le simple fait de réduire de moitié les pertes actuelles après récolte, une économie de 7, 5 milliards de dollars par an aux pays importateurs de céréales. Ces chiffres extraits des documents présentés à notre Conférence montrent l'intérêt que nous avons tous à soutenir de telles initiatives.


Par ailleurs, le Fonds international de développement agricole a pu atteindre l'objectif financier qu'il s'était fixé initialement. Ceci témoigne, si besoin est, de la solidarité des Nations Unies qui s'est renforcée ces dernières années face au spectre de la faim et de la misère.

Cependant, parallèlement a la constitution et à l'organisation de ces Fonds, nous devrons nous pencher sur les modalités de financement des projets et sur les conditions qui doivent être appliquées aux pays en développement. Il paraît en effet de plus en plus discutable de donner au critère "rentabilité interne des projets" l'aspect prépondérant dans le choix des programmes à financer. La sécurité alimentaire et la couverture des besoins internes devraient constituer à notre sens, avec l'aspect social, les principaux critères à prendre en considération par les organismes internationaux de financement.

Nous pensons donc qu'il est du devoir de notre Organisation de développer son action dans deux domaines essentiels:

- aider les pays en développement à mettre en valeur leurs ressources naturelles en vue d'une satisfaction meilleure e leurs besoins alimentaires internes;

- contribuer à l'instauration d'un système de stabilisation. des prix de matières premières et des produits agricoles. Cette double action suppose le renforcement des liens de la FAO avec les organismes spécialisés et plus particulièrement avec les "Fonds" d'investissements. Pour ce faire, il paraît indispensable de revoir le programme envisagé pour les années 1978 et 1979 pour le centre d'investissement et de le doter de moyens humains et financiers suffisants afin de lui permettre de jouer pleinement son role dans la préparation et le lancement des projets agricoles.

Nous approuvons en outre les initiatives prises par Monsieur le Directeur général qui a assoupli et multiplié les interventions du Programme d'assistance technique.

Ce sont là, Monsieur le Président, quelques réflexions sur les thèmes de notre Conférence et sur les documents qui nous ont été présentés.

Permettez-moi maintenant, Mesdames, Messieurs, de vous entretenir très brièvement des efforts déployés par mon pays pour atteindre ses objectifs en matière d'autosatisfaction et d'amélioration du niveau de sa population.

L'agriculture joue dans mon pays un role prépondérant et jouit de ce fait de la première priorité dans nos plans de développement économique et social.

Compte tenu des aléas climatiques, de nos ressources en eau et de la pénurie des terres cultivables, nous avons axé nos efforts sur l'irrigation. C'est ainsi que notre rythme annuel d'irrigation sera accéléré au cours des prochaines années en vue d'atteindre l'objectif du million d'hectares dans une quinzaine d'années. L'irrigation de nos terres nous permettra de satisfaire d'ici 1985 nos besoins alimentaires essentiels, notamment en sucre et en huile végétale.

De même, en zones non Irriguées, la généralisation des semences sélectionnées, l'emploi de l'engrais et de techniques culturales adaptées, combinées avec les réalisations d'infrastructure socio-économique et la vulgarisation, nous ont permis de relever les rendements dans des proportions importantes et plus particulièrement dans le domaine céréalier.

Des projets intégrés où l'action est concentrée sur l'aménagement des structures foncières, l'infrastructure à l'amont et à l'aval de la production végétale et animale, sont en cours de réalisation avec l'aide de la FAO et les autres organismes internationaux.

Nos efforts ne se limitent pas aux seules zones favorables en sec mais englobent aussi les zones arides et semi-arides qui occupent une grande partie de notre pays. Ces zones profiteront de techniques particulières basées sur des méthodes d'aridoculture associées à une fertilisation appropriée et à l'emploi de semences spécifiques.

La recherche agronomique, l'élevage et le reboisement profitent aussi dans mon pays de programmes spécifiques à travers lesquels l'objectif principal visé demeure l'autosatisfaction de nos besoins internes.

La distribution des terres aux petits agriculteurs dans le cadre de la Réforme agraire, les subventions accordées à travers un code des investissements agricoles et la réalisation des infrastructures constituent nos principales interventions qui permettent d'accroître nos productions par une participation directe et volontaire des agriculteurs.


Enfin, un dernier domaine qui revêt pour nous une importance capitale est celui de la formation des techniciens indispensables à l'encadrement des agriculteurs et à la vulgarisation des techniques modernes de production. Notre pays dispose désormais de vingt et un établissements assurant la formation des cadres à tous les niveaux et dans toutes les disciplines.

Toutes nos actions sont guidées par le souci d'un équilibre régional et d'une répartition équitable des ressources du pays en vue d'un relèvement généralisé du niveau de vie de la population rurale.

Les résultats atteints ces dernières années nous paraissent satisfaisants. La création en trois ans de plusieurs Fonds d'investissements dans le secteur agricole, la constitution de stocks de sécurité alimentaire, le lancement de centres régionaux de recherche et d'expérimentation sont autant de mesures nouvelles qui concrétisent notre volonté d'oeuvrer pour le bien-être de nos populations.

Nos débats devront donc aboutir à orienter les activités de la FAO pour qu'elle réaménage rapidement ses structures dans le but de profiter des potentialités nouvelles qu'offre la coopération internationale.

A notre avis, ses efforts durant le biennal prochain doivent porter en particulier sur les points suivants:

- développer ses relations avec les organismes de financement et stimuler l'octroi des prêts à des conditions favorables aux pays en développement;

- accroître l'aide aux pays les plus touchés par la sécheresse comme les pays du Sahel pour lutter contre la désertification et élaborer des programmes pouvant être financés par l'aide extérieure;

- multiplier ses démarches pour l'accroissement de l'aide alimentaire et la constitution de stocks de sécurité alimentaire. De même, il est souhaitable que les contributions des pays donateurs soient relevées d'une façon substantielle;

- appuyer les actions menées par les organismes spécialisés tels que le GATT, et ceci dans le cadre de ''l'ordre nouveau" préconisé par la CNUCED lors de la réunion de Nairobi en mai 1976, en vue d'assurer une stabilisation des prix des produits alimentaires de base et des matières premières.

Ainsi, en plus de l'activité normale de notre Organisation, nous souhaitons une action particulière dans ces domaines qui nous paraissent représenter un impact certain sur notre développement.

Je suis persuadé, Monsieur le Président, que grâce à notre volonté commune de résoudre les problèmes qui se posent en matière d'amélioration de la productivité de nos terres, et de lutte contre la malnutrition de nos populations, notre Organisation renforcera davantage son action sur ces options vitales pour le bien-être de l'humanité.

S. ESSIMENGANE (Gabon): Monsieur le Président, Messieurs les Ministres, Monsieur le Directeur général, Honorables Délégués et Observateurs, Mesdames, Mesdemoiselles, Messieurs, Avant d'aborder le fond de mon allocution, je voudrais accomplir, avec beaucoup de plaisir, un certain nombre de devoirs, non seulement en mon nom propre, au nom du Gouvernement et du peuple gabonais, mais aussi en qualité de Membre du Gouvernement du pays qui assume la Présidence de l'Organisation de l'Unité Africaine.

D'abord, celui de vous féliciter, Monsieur le Président, pour votre brillante élection aux hautes responsabilités de Président de la dix-neufième session de notre Conférence, Ce n'est certes pas le hasard qui vous a porté à ce poste, car vous n'êtes pas un inconnu pour la FAO,

A travers vous, c'est non seulement votre beau pays, mais aussi le Tiers Monde qui est honoré. C'est aussi le Professeur et le Responsable eminent du Gouvernement de l'Indonésie, dont les qualités ont été mieux que je ne saurais le faire, mises en exergue par les orateurs qui m'ont précédé à cette tribune, sans oublier le Président du Groupe des 77.

Je voudrais vous assurer par delà toute la sympathie fraternelle du Gouvernement gabonais, de notre entière collaboration et de notre contribution dans la mesure de nos possibilités pour la parfaite réussite de la présente session.

J'adresse ensuite, très sincèrement, mes plus vives félicitations à Monsieur le Directeur général, le Docteur Saouma, pour les résultats éloquents de ses deux premières années à la tête de notre Organisation. En effet, la FAO, nul ne l'ignore, avait besoin à la fois, Monsieur le Directeur général, de


votre sagacité, votre hardiesse, votre dynamisme, votre sens aigu de discernement et d'appréciation, de votre vision éclairée et mesurée des problèmes, votre capacité extraordinaire de travail, de votre ténacité, enfin de votre foi en la mission, th'à l'unanimité, la dix-huitième session de la Conférence vous a confiée.

Grâce a toutes vos qualités, nous pouvons aujourd'hui apprécier l'oeuvre méritoire de réforme des structures et des habitudes de travail que vous avez accomplie, ainsi que'tontes les innovations que vous avez apportées dans la conception et la mise en oeuvre des programmes de la FAO.

Monsieur le Président, Honorables Délégués, je ne voudrais pas reprendre chaque chapitre du Programme de Travail et de Budget pour le biennum 78-79. Je voudrais cependant mentionner tout particulièrement le Programme de Coopération Technique, le Programme des Pertes après récolte, la création et le financement d'un Fonds spécial pour sa mise en oeuvre immédiate, la continuation des réformes approuvées par le Conseil, le renforcement des liens de coopération entre la FAO et le FIDA. Le Gouvernement Gabonais souhaite que la Conférence manifeste son soutien unanime au Directeur Général en adoptant ses propositions et lui renouvelle ainsi toute sa confiance.

Soyez assuré, Monsieur le Directeur Général que, nous, nous vous apporterons toujours notre appui total dans les initiatives que vous serez amené à prendre dans l'intérêt bien compris de notre Organisation.

Monsieur le Président, Honorables Délégués,

LOUA comprend environ le tiers des Etats Membres de la FAO. Point n'est besoin de faire son historique et de souligner la place de plus en plus importante qu'elle occupe dans le concert des organisations internationales. Cependant, pour la première fois dans son histoire et dans celle de la FAO, je pense qu'il est opportun, en cette solennelle occasion, de souligner combien l'OUA a apprécié l'initiative pertinente du Directeur Général qui a tenu â participer, personnellement, auc dernières assises de Libreville.

Le docteur SAOUMA n'a pas été u η simple invité, mais il a fait, au sommet des Chefs d'Etats de l'OUA, une communication fort appréciée pour laquelle, au nom du Président de la République Gabonaise, Président en exercice de l'OUA, l'honneur m'échoit une fois encore de le remercier et de le féliciter de cette heureuse initiative.

Je ne saurais oublier de mentionner tous les fonctionnaires des organisations internationales qui ont pris une part active à la préparation de cette importante session.

Monsieur le Président, Honorables Délégués,

Des améliorations ont été enregistrées depuis la crise mondiale de l'alimentation. Mais ces améliorations ont été enregistrées dans les Pays matériellement riches d'une part, et sont d'autre part, la résultante d'éléments peu stables que les techniques les plus élaborées ne peuvent pas maîtriser (conditions atmosphériques par exemple).

Pourtant, depuis que l'homme est sur la terre, les denrées alimentaires ont toujours existé; depuis que le monde est monde, chaque être vivant a trouvé sa nourriture, tout comme il a trouvé l'air, l'eau, le soleil et la terre. Ces éléments existent aujourd'hui, ils existeront toujours malgré les variations que l'homme leur inflige. Certes, le rapport du "Club de Rome"', ("Halte à la croissance"), fait observer que la croissance démographique et celle de la consommation vont épuiser les ressources naturelles de la terre et prévoit comme conséquences: la famine, un taux massif de mortalité, l'effondrement de l'économie mondiale etc…

La Déclaration Universelle des Droits de l'Homme n'a pas attendu que l'on injecte aux ordinateurs les statistiques et les tendances actuelles pour proclamer le droit de chacun à une alimentation suffisante et adéquate. Ce que d'ailleurs Monsieur Mac ÑAMARA n'a fait que reprendre dans une allocution prononcée à BOSTON en janvier de cette année; je cite:

…"Le principe de l'égalité pour tous, non seulement à l'intérieur de chaque pays, mais à l'échelle du globe, domine de plus en plus la pensée et l'action des habitants de la planète et il est en voie de devenir l'un des principaux sujets de préoccupation du monde contemporain". . .

…"De nos jours, cette aspiration se traduit, notamment, par la recherche'de solutions nouvelles au problème obsédant de la pauvreté matérielle". . .

La projection de la situation mondiale de l'alimentation et de l'agriculture met en relief cette pauvreté par une production déficitaire, une malnutrition endémique. Les réactions seraient différentes bien sûr si les victimes de la pauvreté et de la malnutrition mouraient d'une épidémie quelconque.


Excluons l'Afrique du Sud et son fléau que la communauté internationale connaît, condamne d'un coté, tolère de l'autre et dont, toujours à BOSTON, Monsieur MAC NAMARA disait ". . . La lutte contre la discrimination raciale, le progrès des droits civiques tous ces mouvements et d'autres encore, ont ceci de commun que, chacun d'eux marque une étape vers une "Société plus juste, une répartition plus équitable des possibilités économiques". . . La région africaine, sans cette plaie de l'humanité, compte au moins 280 Millions d'habitants dont un cinquième a moins de cinq ans. Dix pour cent de ce cinquième souffrent de malnutrition et 500 000 au moins, même si tous les soins nécessaires leur étaient apportés, ne survivraient pas. Plus nombreux sont ceux qui resteront handicapés à vie, physiquement ou moralement, voire les deux.

Il est difficile d'ignorer, Monsieur le Président, qu'au moment où la situation s'est améliorée dans certaines régions du globe, en Afrique, et en particulier au Sahel, les problèmes alimentaires demeurent entiers, à telle enseigne qu'en août dernier, le Gouvernement de la Gambie, déclarait le Pays "Zone frappée par la Sécheresse".

C'est sur cette toile le fond, un tantinet inquiétante et déprimante, que les records des exportations agricoles sont considérés comme des objectifs primordiaux malgré le fléchissement général des prix sur le marché mondial, alors que la pénurie alimentaire sévit dans presque tous les pays démunis et que les morts de la faim ne sont pas toujours annoncés, soit parce que l'on n'ose pas le faire de manière complice, soit parce que l'on a honte de donner des informations de cette nature et on préfère confondre la honte à l'hypocrisie.

En 1968, Son Excellence le Président NYERERE disait cependant,: "C'est à nous qui sommes encore vivants aux privélégiés qui jouissons d'une alimentation suffisante et adéquate, qu'il incombe d'oeuvrer pour la Déclaration des Droits de l'Homme se traduise dans les faits, pour tous les hommes".

Ce n'est pas aujourd'hui seulement que la malnutrition ou l'insuffisance alimentaire a marqué l'Histoire.

- En 1892, en plein été, la ville de New York a connu une mortalité infantile de 340 pour 1 000, taux comparable à celui des pays démunis. En recourant a une meilleure alimentation, très rapidement, ce taux fut ramené à 170 pour 1 000.

- En 1925, en Tanzanie, un taux de mortalité élevé chez les prisonniers affectés â des travaux pénibles fut à l'origine d'une loi rendant obligatoire une meilleure alimentation de tous les prisonniers. Deux ans après, ce taux de mortalité avait diminué des deux tiers. Cette loi fut alors appliquée à tous les travailleurs des plantations afin d'accroître leur puissance de travail.

Aujourd'hui, peut-on faire un bilan réconfortant ?. . .

A Manille, à la Conférence Nord Sud comme à la CNUCED IV, pratiquement après une année d'intenses négociations, on n'a pas réussi à résoudre les problèmes de base.

Monsieur le Président, Honorables Délégués,

Si nous en sommes là, n'est-ce pas à cause d'une mauvaise conception du développement ?

L'aspiration à l'équité doit se traduire avant tout par la recherche de solutions nouvelles au problème obsédant de la pauvreté car la formule propre à une situation donnée n'est pas applicable à une autre situation. En d'autres termes, ce qui peut convenir à un pays matériellement riche ne peut pas convenir à un pays dépourvu.

Il paraîtra absurde que, en ce dernier quart de siècle, qui a connu tant de progrès, tant de prouesses, nous posions le problème de développement d'une manière inattendue. C'est à notre avis une impérieuse nécessité que commandent la polarisation de nos sens, l'accoutumance des esprits à une dialectique volontairement faussée par les uns pour empêcher les autres de voir et d'appréhender les vrais problèmes, une dialectique erronée qui a établi des rapports inexacts, un équilibre injuste et des habitudes oratoires sans lendemain.

- Pays développés !

- Pays en voie de développement !, expressions galvaudées,

Qu'est-ce que cela veut dire? Où commence le développement et où s'arrête-t-il ? Quelle est l'unité de mesure du développement ?


En cernant les multiples tendances, on constate que pour certains, le développement se mesure à l'accumulation d'argent, ou à l'augmentation de la capacité d'accroître la masse monétaire ou bien encore à l'élévation du Produit National Brut, même si ce n'est que l'oeuvre ou pour le bénéfice de quelques uns seulement.

Pour d'autres, ce qui n'est pas moins erroné, le développement consiste en l'industrialisation ou la richesse, sans. tenir compte de celui qui détient cette industrie ou cette richesse. . . Certains Pays du Tiers Monde seraient alors des pays matériellement développés au même titre que les Etats-Unis d'Amérique par exemple.

Pays développés, Pays en voie de développement, cela revient-il à dire que le développement n'est rien d'autre qie la copie conforme des pays industrialisés, à admettre qu'il est raisonnable que les dépenses annuelles des armées du monde soient l'équivalent du revenu annuel de l'Afrique, du Moyen-Orient, de l'Asie Méridionale et de l'Amérique latine réunis et qu'il est normal qu'elles représentent 20 à 50 fois selon les modes de calcul, toute l'aide internationale.

Raoul FOLLEREAU, demandait aux Etats-Unis d'Amérique et à l'URSS de renoncer chacun à la lutte contre la lèpre aurait suffi à assurer la victoure définitive sur cet horrible fléau. Il ne fut pas entendu, ce fléau existe encore hélas ! C'est pourquoi, pour mieux appréhender nos problèmes, il est important pour tous, de nous débarasser avant tout de ces expressions qui ne font qu. accroître l'incompréhension des devoirs des uns envers les autres dans l'honorable mission de venir à l'aide des moins nantis.

Il nous faut reconsidérer que le développement est l'ensemble de ce processus qui a modifié progressivement, imperceptiblement d'abord mais radicalement, les modes de production, les modes de consommation, les modes de communication, les structures, les institutions, les rapports entre les hommes et les rapports entre l'homme et le nature.

Il nous faut observer et constater que c'est en étendant sa domination sur la nature que l'homme a engendré le processus de développement dont la principale conséquence réside dans l'élaboration des modèles de croissance avec pour objectif le bien être tant économique que social, culturel et sanitaire de tous les hommes.

En effet, LEWIS a dit: "Les Dieux ne nous regarderont face à face que lorsque nous aurons nous-mêmes un visage''. Parant de ces considérations, l'homme est donc responsable et si l'égalité n'existe pas, c'est pour lui, à cause de lui, à cause de son incapacité innée a se libérer des préjugés, des vices et des appétits insatiables.

En un mot, il prouve que ses capacités sont infimes. au regard des expériences combien enrichissantes que lui offre la vie par le biais de l'environnement naturel.

Il est en permanence prisonnier de ses impulsions et c'est pour mettre un terme a cet état de choses que les pays du Groupe des 77 ont exprimé l'impérieuse nécessité de l'instauration d'un nouvel ordre Economique International.

La dimension planétaire de la 2ème guerre mondiale, les ruines consécutives, l'importance des moyens financiers mis en oeuvre pendant et après le conflit et la place des peuples alors colonisés, leur role et le travail politique fourni ont incité au maintien de la paix et à l'organisation de la Coopération économique et sociale par l'élaboration de la charte de San Francisco le 26 juin 1945. Que se passe-t-il encore actuellement sur cette même planète ? Quest est le fruit de cette coopération économique et sociale ?

A Manille, Monsieur. MAC NAMARA, s'adressant au Conseil des gouverneurs; de la Banque Mondiale, a résumé la situation dans une analyse de la croissance disparate du monde. Il a affirmé notamment que: "de 1965 à 1975, les revenus des pays les plus pauvres, soit plus de 1, 2 milliard d'habitants du globe, n'ont augmenté que de deux dollars par an". . . En concluant, il ne pouvait s'empêcher de dire que: "le spectacle ne saurait être contemplé sans que des mesures résolues soient prises pour y remédier". . .

A la 70ème session du Conseil de notre Organisation, le Directeur général déclarait que l'action dans les domaines fondamentaux pour le bien-être de millions d'êtres humains était a peine perceptible. L'espoir réside dans l'instauration d'un nouvel ordre économique international.

Nous sommes là au coeur même d'un des grands aspects que l'histoire du monde devra enregistrer comme elle a enregistré l'accession à l'indépendance des peuples colonisés. Certes, le nouvel ordre économique international engendrera des craquements déchirants pour les privélégiés, une réforme inéluctable des structures, un effort collectif, une véritable conversion des mentalités, toutes sortes de catastrophes qui autorisent les cassandres à prédire des affrontements apocalyptiques.


Il n'en sera rien de tout cela si la Communauté internationale veut comprendre, prenant le contre. pied de "Halte à ía croissance" dans son modèle de croissance, que les problèmes majeurs de l'humanité ne sont pas d'ordre physique mais socio-économique et que les solutions ou les remèdes ne résident pas dans un coup de frein généralisé à la croissance démographique mais dans l'élaboration d'un système mondial dont l'objectif serait la satisfaction des besoins fondamentaux de chacun.

Certes, ce système conduirait à un ralentissement de la croissance économique des pays industrialisés qui adopteraient délibérément les mesures appropriées grâce auxquelles les pays pauvres pourraient atteindre graduellement un niveau de vie acceptable pour eux.

La situation actuelle se résume malheureusement en ceci:

- Les pays industrialis-és sont préoccupés par leurs problèmes d'inflation et de chômage dans leurs frontières.

- Les pays pauvres s'inquiètent du déficit croissant de leur balance de paiements, conséquence de la détérioration chronique des termes de l'échange et de l'inflation généralisée. Ce qui a fait dire à un journaliste que les "Pays pauvres continueront de s'enrhumer chaque fois que les pays riches éternuent".

Dans le monde actuel, les préoccupations sont partagées sur toute une série de questions. Je voudrais maintenant en aborder une à titre d'exemple, dont on ne parle que peu, par hypocrisie, malgré l'inégalité flagrante, mais aussi et surtout les conséquences dont elle est responsable. Il s'agit de l'information.

Les pays industrialisés utilisent des moyens de communication sophistiqués, que les pays matériellement pauvres ne sont pas, tous, en mesure d'adopter. Les pays industrialisés conscients de ce que l'information est un pouvoir technologique et politique, n'ont cependant pas manqué d'y voir une nouvelle source de revenus en proposant les équipements, quitte à les préfinancer sans se préoccuper des charges récurrentes.

Cette situation des rapports de force inégaux, utilisant la technologie, est devenue une forme d'exploitation supplémentaire et en même temps, une forme de domination nouvelle, hautement subtile et très efficace qui se perçoit difficilement.

Ce phénomène, nous le vivons. Il peut se traduire ainsi: de PARIS, LONDRES ou WASHINGTON par exemple, 100 000 morts du Tiers Monde valent moins que 10 d'un pays nanti.

Ces mêmes pays comprennent mal que leurs anciennes colonies acceptent de plus en plus mal certaines situations de simples consommateurs de leurs produits dont ils ne contrôlent ni la fabrication ni la distribution. C'est le cas de l'information dans son ordre actuel et il est permis de se demander si un nouvel ordre mondial de l'information n'est pas nécessaire.

Ce nouvel ordre est, en tout état de cause, aussi indispensable que le nouvel ordre économique international. Il sera battu en brèche, il ne faut pas se faire d'illusion. Il s'instaurera difficilement. Néanmoins, aussi audacieux que cela puisse paraître, il ne serait pas moins juste qu'il voie le jour afin que le transfert de technologie ne demeure pas moins un mythe et ne constitue de nouvelle chaînes d'asservissement.

Les pays nantis en acceptant le principe en ont depuis longtemps mesuré non seulement la part des revenus qu'ils en tirent, mais aussi les relations conséquentes et le rapport des forces.

En effet, tel qu'il est pratiqué, le transfert de technologie peut être considéré comme une nouvelle forme d'asservissement si l'on y prend garde, si l'on ne fait pas preuve de pondération, de circonspection et de discernement, car à travers lui et par lui, les pays matériellement pauvres, quel que soit le degré de pauvreté, risquent de demeurer, pour longtemps encore, tributaires des pays nantis. Sur le plan de la technologie pure, les problèmes sont solubles certainement, mais sur le plan de l'inadéquation, voire de l'inadaptation, par le biais de l'information et de la formation, de la conception du développement, du dérèglement des priorités, le transfert de technologie risque aussi de permettre aux nantis- de contenir les aspirations légitimes des pauvres. En attisant les orgueils naturels, le transfert de technologie annihile les potentialités créatives qui peuvent exister et qui correspondraient à la recherche de technologies mieux adaptées à la situation de ces derniers.

Il n'est pas de pays économiquement pauvre qui puisse faire des bilans positifs, en faveur de ses populations, à la suite d'un transfert de technologie. Non seulement le phénomène dégrade toute originalité jusqu'aux us et coutumes, qui sont bouleversés dangereusement, mais encore, il fait très souvent en sorte que les pays matériellement pauvres ne puissent être complémentaires entre eux tout en demeurant dépendants des pays nantis, chacun en ce qui le concerne.


La crise du pétrole, comme on l'a appelée faussement, n'a pas incité les pays nantis ä devenir tributaires des pays producteurs de l'or noir. Elle les a plutôt même incités à accroître les moyens de recherche vers des solutions de rechange que l'information s'est chargée d'éclabousser pour faire taire les exigences légitimes de ceux-ci.

Il en sera ainsi et toujours ainsi, si les pays matériellement pauvres ne réalisent pas que, dans leur pauvreté, le développement n'est pas la copie même d'un moins pauvre et que dire d'un nanti; que les besoins primordiaux des uns ne correspondent pas à ceux des autres, que dans la société de consommation, s'ils n'unissaient pas leurs efforts, ils ne vaincraient jamais leur pauvreté et ne seraient donc en mesure d'exiger une coopération plus équitable, fondée sur des éléments plus justes inhérents aux principes de vérité et de justice.

Non seulement des siècles durant, ceux-là mêmes qui sont pauvres aujourd'hui ont été pillés d'une manière ou d'une autre mais ils continuent de l'être, parce qu'ils ne perçoivent encore que confusément les tactiques hautement subtiles qui visent à perpétuer la domination des pilleurs sur les pillés.

Monsieur le Président, Honorables Délégués,

J'aurais failli à ma mission, si je ne m'acquittais pas en terminant d'un autre devoir tout aussi agréable, celui de saluer nos frères des Seychelles, Angola, Mozambique, Djibouti, Namibie, Korée Démocratique, Sao Tomé-et-Principe, Comores, qui, pour la première fois, participent à part entière aux travaux de notre Conférence. Nous les assurons d'avance de toute notre sympathie.

CHAIRMAN: I now call upon an additional speaker, the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources of the Sudan who was scheduled to speak on the morning of 17 November but who has to return urgently to his country tomorrow morning.

A. A. ABDALLA (Sudan) (Interpretation from Arabic): First of all, Mr. Chairman, I would like to thank you for giving me this opportunity of speaking here in this Conference. I have to leave Rome very soon. The time we have is extremely valuable and therefore I would like to make use of it; and I thank you again for giving me this opportunity of speaking at a time which was not really set aside for me.

Ladies and Gentlemen, on hehalf of the population and Government of the Democratic Republic of the Sudan, and on behalf of my colleagues in the Sudanese delegation, I would like to extend to you my best wishes for the work of the Conference. I would like to avail myself of this opportunity of congratulating you, Mr. Chairman, on your post as Chairman of the Conference. I am sure that your wisdom is going to make it possible for us to achieve remarkable results in the course of this Conference.

I would also like to welcome here all the new members of the Organization who have come to join our Organization. But while welcoming these countries I would like to refer to our brothers who are still victims of slavery and domination and who, with admirable heroism, fight against racial disccrimination and foreign domination. I would like to pay a tribute from here to their legitimate aspirations and to recall that it is up to all of us to help them towards liberty, justice and peace.

Mr. Chairman, FAO has contributed to a very considerable extent to the efforts made in order to build up an equitable economic order which was endorsed by all countries and which has thus become a working instrument in all of our conferences. Nevertheless, we should recall that the efforts made in this direction are simply a sketch because the gap between opulence of the rich and the misery of the poor is still a very wide one. Nevertheless, the dialogue which has started between countries since the World Food Conference is one that deals with the main problems. Sometimes there is a faint glimmer of hope but it disappears right away.

Mr. Chairman, we are here because our hopes are high in the case of FAO. This is the pioneer Organization in the family of the United Nations. Its burden is the heaviest and its contribution can satisfy the aspirations of nations and people. The measures taken in this Organization are the most solid foundation of the economic order to which we all aspire.

The new policies applied in FAO, such as decentralization at the national level and the setting up of national centres, deserve our full support; but while giving our support to the measures which have already been taken, we express the wish that other initiatives be taken to accompany them in order to carry them out, so that the objectives will be reached; that is to say, the improvement of methods in preparing projects, plans for the improvement of production and of living standards.


We would also like to express our full satisfaction with the orientation that has been given to the work of the Organization, but we believe it is necessary to reformulate the methods of work in the regional offices, in the light of this policy, in order to improve the work in those offices. I am of the opinion that the Near East Office has a very important role to play in order to link the various nations it serves, and that in particular in our region the project for cooperation between FAO and the oil-producing countries is of the greatest importance. We believe that all these plans should be successful. We try to strengthen this Organization and we should draw attention to the fact that we must absolutely ensure an equality of chances with regard to the distribution of functions and justice with regard to geographical distribution within the Organization. We see that the African and Arab countries have not had their share in regard to the posts given to the various member countries of the Organization.

We are glad to note that IFAD has become a reality and we in the developing countries expect IFAD to play its role in helping agricultural development, in raising nutritional levels in the developing countries. In the same way, we must not forget what the Consultative Group on Food Production and Investment in the developing countries has already achieved. It has helped define national strategies for development, and the Sudan, with three other countries, has participated in this experiment which we consider to be a beginning towards putting up the challenge of increasing agricultural production. We believe that it is necessary to act in such a way that priority is given to such activities, and also to see to it that adequate assistance is given to the developing countries in this connexion.

Although there has been an improvement in the world situation, generally speaking, we are still conscious of the fact that the situation is far from satisfactory; especially the rate of agricultural development in developing countries is far from the level we adopted a few years ago. Of course, agriculture in the developing countries suffers from a lack of mechanization, of finance and of a number of other factors which could encourage agricultural production; and this of course makes the situation more difficult. Food security can only be brought about if there is an increase of production in the developing countries, and this is only possible thanks to the activities of this Organization and can be undertaken by the member countries of this Organization. Then, we would be able to increase agricultural production in our countries, thanks to the finance provided by donor countries and donor organizations, to whom we launch an appeal that they increase their financial assistance. Our hopes are great that international cooperation will be strengthened and that terms of trade will become more favourable to the developing countries.

Our hope is also very high that certain decisions which were taken in the international organization be really implemented. Of course, we have made efforts in order to increase our agricultural production in our own countries and we also try to increase yields to diversify agricultural production to improve the rate of increase, especially with regard to food production and we try to create a surplus in order to be able to export.

In the course of this year we started to apply a development plan for a six-year period and it therefore continues until 1983. Among the objectives of this plan there is the implementation of the production of a surplus of 308, 000 tons of plant oil and 275, 000 tons of seed, quantities of maize, of seed of high quality and we also want to improve the production of tea, coffee and become exporters of sugar. Ambitious programmes in order to increase production and productivity are based upon the promotion of agricultural research. An integrated plan takes into account all the ecological factors. For the first phase of this plan we are cooperating with IBRD in order to set up research units in the Savannah area in the Western part of our country. For the first time this project will make it possible to discover a technology and make it possible to promote production and to increase productivity in rainfed areas and also in the traditional agricultural croppinp areas.

The promotion of agricultural research, of course, requires a strengthening of agricultural training and expansion programmes. We need staff and apart from academic staff we are training at the Khartoum University every year and at which we have 300 agronomists and veterinarians, we also have set up a University in Juba in the South which will work in close contact with the environment in which it has been set up in order to try and surmount the problems of the rural populations of these areas. We believe that this is a way of strengthening the structures for education and training in order to achieve the results we are aiming at but the promotion of agricultural research also requires a structural change in the rural areas of our country in order to bring about our economic and social development. Thanks to the assistance we get from international organizations, especially the specialized agencies, we have been able to start projects in order to increase the living standards of the rural population, especially of the small farmers and to help also cooperatives and to adopt techniques and modern technology to our requirements.


Agriculture in my country is based on the cultivation of state-owned land which is used by the populations living on this land. Taking into account the size of the land available we have opened the door to all possibilities for capital investment, of foreign capital, Arab capital and capital also coming from the private sector in order to make it possible for such capital to be invested in fruitful projects.

We are quite convinced that direct cooperation between the donor countries and the beneficiary countries is not only necessary but that it is possible, because this would make it possible for us to prepare projects in conditions which will be satisfactory. I would like to recall in this direction what I said concerning the efforts made by the Consultative Group on Food Production and Investment in developing countries.

The Programme of Work and Budget for the biennium 1978-79 includes essential aspects which show that the Organization merits the full trust which we place in it and which we place in the Director-General; and his staff. My Government gives its full support to the contents of this programme, especially with regard to the following points. With regard to forestry, for instance, we would like to propose that within the framework of the programmes we find in the Programme of Work there should be a balance between agricultural expansion and forestry utilization, especially tropical forests.

As regards the improvement of tropical forestry, we agree that regional institutes should be set up in order to train local staff in the woodworking industries. In the Sudan we have got a project for forest census in my country and we are consulting the Organization in this connexion.

As far as fishery is concerned, we would like to propose that the Organization should help regional fisheries which are going to be set up in the near future in order to make it possible for countries in these regions really to draw benefit from these centres. We believe that fisheries in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden do not draw full benefit from the aid they could get from the Organization and that is why we would like to suggest that a centre be set up for these countries, in order to help them solve their fishery problems.

The enormous resources which are available in my country make it necessary that programmes of the control of the advance of the desert, programmes for the improvement of grassland, of range land, and the improvement of working conditions be assisted financially so that all these programmes, these ambitious programmes, will be successful.

Before concluding I would like to thank WFP for the different activities it has carried out in my country over the last few years and for the advance in my country. I would also like to thank the Organization, the Director-General and the entire staff for having prepared the documentation for this Conference which makes it possible for us to familiarize ourselves with all the subjects that are to be discussed here.

CHAIRMAN: I adjourn the sixth plenary meeting.

The meeting rose at 18. 40 hours
La séance est levée à 18 h 40
Se levanta la sesión a las 18. 40 horas

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