F, CHUULA (Zambia): Mr Chairman, Deputy Director-General of FAO, your Excellencies, distinguished delegates and observers, ladies and gentlemen, I am aware that instructions have been given that participants given the opportunity to speak should, as far as possible, not indulge in showering congratulatory messages on the bureau. I cannot, however, resist congratulating the Director-General of FAO on his re-election and I wish also to thank him for the excellent preparations that have been made to create an atmosphere which is conducive to our deliberations.
The current world state of food and agriculture as analysed by FAO and other international bodies does not give much encouragement in the short-term as to the revitalization of the level of food production in the developing countries. The food security outlook in many of these countries is of great concern. In Africa, after the slight recovery and good harvest of 1985/86 the drought hit hard again in 1986/87, painting a gloomy picture. In southern Africa, the situation is serious and has been worsened by the destabilizing effect of the apartheid policies of South Africa. The region is already in a food-deficit situation which is aggravated by the refugee problem caused by wanton attacks on frontline states by the South African regime and its sponsored bandits.
The unfavourable terms of trade which have been compounded by protectionist policies of developed countries have greatly hurt the economies of developing countries. The debt problem of many developing countries has worsened.
For developing countries to forge ahead in their agricultural recovery programmes, there is need for a formulation of a financial package by the International Community which will resolve the debilitating debt problem. The package should include conversion of loans into grants, substantial reduction and curbing of interest rates on commercial debts, and that debt servicing on new loans is compatible with the capacity of these countries to pay after taking into account the requirements of sustained growth and development.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations as a technical body and adviser on food and agriculture, also in its capacity as a cooperating and executing agency on loan sponsored agricultural and rural development projects has a role to play in influencing policy and on finding ways to resolve and minimize the devastating effects of the debt problem. The other way in which FAO could contribute effectively, would be to involve itself in the overall agricultural and rural development projects in the developing countries which has emphasis on food production.
We believe that the key to quick agricultural and economic growth in Zambia lies in the promotion of small-scale farmers if we are to meet the increased food demand by the increasing population and the provision of employment opportunities for the increased number of unemployed.
In the line with the OAU Priority Programme for Economic Recovery, 1986/1990, Zambia is to implement an adjustment programme based on its own resources, and foreign inputs being used as catalysts to enhance the Programme.
The manpower problem is being tackled by a deliberate National Training Programme, by incorporating a training component in all foreign aided projects and by integrating the Zambians themselves in the running and operating of such projects. The national expert system is being encouraged in all projects and technical assistance schemes with a view to improve and facilitate on-the-job training and the effective transfer of technology to the Zambian people.
We must strengthen this Organization in order to increase its capacity to provide the technical assistance that many of its Member States are in need of, for example, the Tropical Forestry Action Plan adopted by the FAO Conference in 1985 gives us a framework in which a concerted effort is being made to resolve the problem of deforestation and forest degradation in tropical countries whose consequences are drought, desertification, soil erosion with adverse effects on food production. I would like to urge FAO to continue to assist those countries which are making efforts to implement the plan.
The promotion of inland fisheries and aquaculture production are of vital importance to us and other landlocked countries in Africa. As we all know, fish remain one of the cheapest sources of high quality protein in the region and greatly contribute to the fight against malnutrition.
Our country is now giving a lot of emphasis to the development of aquaculture. There is no doubt that further support from FAO and other donors to this sector would enhance its development.
In many parts of Africa the presence of trypanosomiasis, rinderpest, foot-and-mouth diseases, tsetsefly and East Coast fever have prevented rapid progress in livestock production, especially beef production and oxenization. Red locusts in the SADCC Region have from time to time reduced crop production. While a lot has been done to contain the situation, more needs to be done. Zambia in particular needs provision of logistics in the fight against these pests. With regard to pesticides my delegation supports the principle of prior informed consent.
To consolidate the development efforts in all areas of agriculture, we propose that the FAO Global Information and Early Warning System for Food and Agriculture should be strengthened and should also cover livestock production and disease control.
Manpower and human resources development are necessary in our various countries if we are to improve in our agricultural output. I wish to congratulate the FAO on the efforts which are being made by the Organization in this respect. Thank you.
Hüsnü DOGAN (Turkey): At the outset, I would like to congratulate the Chairman on his unanimous election to the chairmanship. His vast experience and well known talents are the best guarantees for a successful outcome of our deliberations on the complex and multi-faceted issues confronting the Conference. I would also like to congratulate Mr Saouma on his re-election as the Director-General of FAO. We are confident that with his experience and abilities he will strike the right balance in leading the Organization to better days.
After 1985, this is the second time that I have had the pleasure of addressing an FAO conference. I feel particularly privileged to express the views of my Government on this occasion, which appears to have an historic importance. Indeed at this particular juncture when the world food and agriculture problems have reached a peak and when multilateral institutions face growing pressures, our conference has the great responsibility of giving the right impulse to FAO so as to enable it to strengthen its role and raise its efficiency.
Let me first briefly touch upon the present state of food and agriculture which entails renewed efforts also on the part of FAO. In the past two years, the international economic environment which directly affects development, and the efforts to eradicate hunger and poverty continued to be beset by uncertainties. The upturn of économies which began in 1984 has not yielded its expected results.
The favourable trend of growth has not been maintained. The developed countries have missed the opportunity to create the conditions for economic growth by still pursuing restrictive policies despite the fall in inflation, drop in oil prices, and relative stability of interest rates They also stall in effectuating structural adjustments although they are in much a better position to do so. Now developing countries like mine which have embarked upon policies of adjustment and which have undertaken significant reforms in their agricultural policies continue to pay an increasingly higher price for these changes in their policies. International financial uncertainties, unfavorable terms of trade, protectionism, and instability of markets continue to take their toll on the economic and social development efforts of the developing countries.
The pervasiveness of the economic environment has particularly affected the agricultural sector. Unprecedented falls in the prices of most agricultural commodities have further decreased the chances especially of food deficit low-income countries to finance their imports of food and agricultural imputs. The fact that the world enjoys abundant supplies of food and agricultural products at the global level is no relief for most of these countries and their rural populations.
The structural imbalances in the world's agricultural output and trade system still perpetrate the paradoxical situation of embarrassing supluses and serious shortages.
In this rather gloomy picture another sore point is the external financial assistance to agriculture. Official commitments to this sector are stagnating. It is encouraging to note that low income food-deficit countries have started to receive a greater share of concessional assistance. However, for most developing countries external resource transfers to agriculture still remain crucial. We believe that, especially for middle income countries with adequate potential and absorption capacities, the stepping up of foreign private investments in this vital sector constitutes a fruitful means of compensating for the decreasing official assistance. I believe that the further promotion of foreign private investments in these countries is well justified in the light of declining external assistance to them.
It is fortunate that, unlike the last one, this Conference does not have to deal with the critical food and agriculture situation in Africa. The catastrophy which struck that continent seems to be abating. Although, as of 1986, five African countries still require food aid, the emergency situation has subsided. Some countries have even enjoyed surpluses. However, the longer-term food security of Africa still requires many self-help efforts and concerted international action. The UN Programme of Action for African Economic Recovery and Development to which FAO provided a large input has laid down the framework for this continent's economic future. The precarious nature of Africa's agricultural and food secutiry situation as witnessed by the recent negative developments in Ethiopia makes it imperative that all the elements of this programme of action should be strictly adhered to.
FAO had to carry out the tasks we entrusted to it during the last biennium in this largely unfavourable world economic environment. Unfortunately, the difficulties inherent in the implementation of its complex and wide-ranging activities were compounded by a mounting financial crisis which peaked in 1986 This unprecedented cash-flow crisis which stems mainly from the delay in payment of contributions, aggravated by the fall in the value of the US dollar and the reduction of income from cash deposits, threatens to cast a shadow on the next biennium. We hope that this Conference will be able to decide on effective measures to avert the recurrence of such situations in the years ahead.
Now let me turn to the proposed Programme oí Work and Budget for the coming biennium. Turkey approves the strategies, priorities and programmes proposed by the Director-General in his Programme of Work and Budget for the next biennium. Our support is mainly based on the fact that these proposals reflect and are the result of a long process to which all member countries, including mine, have largely contributed. We consider that, given the present budgetary and financial constraints, the proposals before us seem to be realistic and balanced enough to deserve a consensus, including the budget level which foresees a modest increase, a quarter of one per cent.
We had ample opportunity to express our views on the various sets of programme priorities and priorities in the means of action during the process of the elaboration of these proposals. Here, I would like to emphasize the importance my country attaches to the enhancement of economic and technical cooperation among developing countries Turkey believes that she has attained a level where her experience and means in the field of agriculture can be put to the service of other developing countries wishing to benefit from them. In fact my country constantly increases its participation in ECDC and TCDC activities within various frameworks, not least within FAO. As an example, the results of the TCDC agreement we concluded with the Organization last year concerning livestock and forestry training in the Near East proved to be very satisfactory. We have already taken steps to expand the scope of such activities in the future and look forward to institutionalizing them with the help of FAO.
Allow me now to comment briefly on the proposals put forward by some countries to proceed Lo a wide-ranging review of FAO's role and activities. Although such a request has almost coincided with the financial difficulties of the Organization, I want to underline that we do not see a direct link between the cash-flow crisis and the necessity of reviewing FAO's work.
As to the reform proposals thémselves, we believe that this Conference, as the supreme body of our institution, provides the appropriate forum where all members should be able to freely discuss any idea tending to enhance the efficiency of our Organization. However, in my opinion, the deliberations on this subject should be guided by the following principles and approach:
strict adherence to the principles and provisions of the UN Charter as regards the decision making process;
respect for the provisions of the basic texts of FAO;
respect for the prerogatives of the principal organs of FAO with respect to planning, programming and budgeting process;
recognition of the need for all Member States to participate in the programme-budget preparation in all its stages;
respect for the decision-making methods of the Organization, including the priority given to reach decisions by consenus; and lastly,
recognition of the fact that FAO evolved in its 42 years of existence in response to and in line with the consensus reached at its governing bodies and that this generally satisfactory process should continue to be adhered to.
Having said that, we see merit in the consideration of certain aspects of the proposals which may contribute to the better functioning of this Organization provided that they meet the consensus of Member States, improvements can and should be made. On our part, my delegation stands ready to participate in the debate in a constructive way, bearing always in mind that it is we, all the member countries, which bear the main responsibility for the future of our Organization.
In concluding, Iwould like to reaffirm my Government's commitment to FAO's aims and activities. Turkey's interest in FAO was illustrated in the past two years by her active participation in the Organization's work within almost all of its organs including the Council, and by hosting two FAO regional conferences for the Near East and for Europe.
My country also takes pride in having hosted various FAO seminars, symposia and regional meetings including the Near East Economic and Social Commission during the same period. We believe that our level of development, agricultural potential, and expanding technical and food assistance schemes are important assets which will allow us to assume greater responsibilities in FAO's work.
I would like to close my remarks by expressing confidence that this Conference will serve to strengthen the effectiveness of this Organization in dealing with the vital problems of food and farmers.
João PEREIRA SILVA (Cap-Vert) (langue originale portugais): Permettez-moi tout d'abord, Monsieur le Président, de vous adresser mes félicitations les plus chaleureuses pour votre élection à la Présidence de la 24ème Session de la Conférence. La qualité exceptionnelle des débats que vous animez prouve que nous avons fait le bon choix. Je saisis également cette occasion pour féliciter vivement les vice-présidents et les membres élus du Bureau qui vous aident dans l'accomplissement de votre tâche.
Enfin, je souhaite tout particulièrement m'adresser au Directeur général et lui exprimer mus plus sincères félicitations pour sa brillante réélection à la tête de notre Organisation.
Face à ceux qui veulent changer les règles du jeu à leur profit et au détriment des petits pays, des pauvres et des faibles, nous espérons que le Directeur général maintiendra toujours - comme par le passé - l'indépendance de notre Organisation et son engagement indéfectible aux cotés de nos pays. Des pays qui sont soumis à tant d'épreuves et qui se battent pour se libérer et pour s'intégrer dans un monde où les rapports entre Etats doivent être constamment révisés dans le sens d'une plus grande équité.
Je peux vous affirmer, Monsieur le Directeur général, du plein appui de mon Gouvernement et de sa détermination à coopérer avec la FAO. Soyez sûr que vous trouverez en lui un interlocuteur toujours loyal et ferme, comme ce fut également le cas dans le passé.
Avant de poursuivre, j'aimerais aussi remercier chaleureusement tous ceux qui ont contribué à mon élection à la Vice-Présidence de la présente Conférence. Mes remerciements s'adressent tout particulièrement au groupe africain auquel mon pays est fier d'appartenir.
La Conférence de la FAO est, tous les deux ans, un lieu de rencontre et de discussion privilégié, une occasion unique pour faire le point et pour se consulter sur nos conceptions respectives en matière de lutte contre le sous-développement et de coopération internationale, surtout en matière d'agriculture et de développement rural.
Aussi, puisque le sous-développement demeure l'ennemi principal, tant dans mon pays que dans la grande majorité des pays africains, je vais essayer de vous faire part très brièvement de in manière dont nous entendons le combattre dans le domaine du développement rural.
Plusieurs propositions ont été avancées de façon théorique pour sortir du sous-développement. Ce sont les théories de déconnexions, du jeu de forces du marché, de la coopération au niveau des interdépendances et dépendances. Toutefois, la réalité montre qu'en Afrique le secteur agricole reste très négligé, le commerce extérieur généralement déficitaire et la dette extérieure en constante augmentation (sa croissance a été de 50 %. en six ans).
Avec l'internationalisation croissante des économies, associée à une certaine corrélation des forces mondiales, le contrôle du sous-développement devient prioritaire pour l'orientation du développement de l'économie du pays, dans un contexte de dépendance extérieure accentuée et d'insuffisance de moyens matériels et humains. Dans ce contexte, la planification économique devient indispensable, son premier role étant, dans mon p'ays, de réduire au maximum les conséquences des incertitudes liées à la dépendance de l'extérieur, en particulier la pulvérisation de l'aide internationale. Il a fallu procéder à une globalisation des politiques et projets afin, dans un cadre unifié, d'identifier leurs limites et surtout de les hiérarchiser. Ceci a permis d'établir des hiérarchies de priorités et de concentrer les moyens dans la réalisation des actions prioritaires.
En ce qui concerne le développement rural, on peut résumer en disant que, de 1975 à 1985, le pays s'est efforcé à la création de conditions minimales permettant la définition d'une proposition claire de développement après avoir infléchi dans un sens positif les courbes représentant le déséquilibre écologique, le chômage, le manque de cadres, l’inexistance de technologies applicables efficacement, etc.
On prétend que le deuxième PND, qui a démarré en 1986, soit une nouvelle étape de transition eu égard à une plus grande croissance du monde rural et au niveau atteint par notre capacité de contrôler les phénomènes de désagrégation écologique et humaine, n'oubliant pas que notre climat est et sera ingrat, caractérisé par des précipitations irrégulières et de très faible niveau.
Dans cette nouvelle étape, on suivra les orientations suivantes en matière de développement rural:
-Dans la production, l'initiative sera laissée au secteur privé, l'Etat assumant le rôle de créateur dans un système efficace d'appui et de soutien.
-Le développement devra se faire d'une façon équilibrée dans l'espace, étant donné l'inefficacité de certaines tentatives de création de pôles de développement.
-Les populations bénéficiaires du développement devront participer, de façon de plus en plus organisée, dans ce processus, que ce soit dans l'identification des projets, dans l'exécution oul’évaluation.
-La création de conditions pour arriver à une autonomie du monde rural face à l'Etat. Ceci enincentivant son organisation sur les modèles associatifs ou non, afin qu'il soit un véritable partenaire avec lequel on puisse dialoguer, ayant des capacités opérationnelles et revendicatrices etnon pas un simple spectateur et demandeur du monde urbain, désirant s'y intégrer, toujours en dernier ressort, même en tant que marginal.
-La croissance des revenus de la population rurale, en proportionnant davantage d'emplois productifs, en favorisant chaque fois plus sa production, en organisant l'approvisionnement de facteurs de production et en pratiquant des prix au niveau des coûts ou même subsidies.
D'un autre côté, nous définissons les objectifs suivants pour la période 1986-90:
-Conservation et reconstitution du patrimoine écologique de façon plus systématique et techniquement plus rigoureuse, équilibrant les solutions mécaniques avec les biologiques et s'initiant en même temps à l'usage productif de ces infrastructures;
-Croissance de la production agro-silvo-pastorale, cherchant à réduire la dépendance de l'extérieur, satisfaisant une partie significative des besoins alimentaires et contribuant décisivement à l'approvisionnement en bois de la population rurale;
-Changement de la structure agraire et des relations de production dans les zones rurales, passant d'une situation semi-féodale, dans plusieurs zones du pays, à l'usufruit complet de la terre parles paysans;
-Elargissement coordonné de la formation/recherche/vulgarisation/extension, en créant des techniques simples et facilement applicables tout en persuadant les paysans de les utiliser. Cetteméthodologie implique une grande coordination dans le choix des zones prioritaires d'actions etune approche intégrée, basée sur une philosophie d'autonomisation des communautés paysannes et lanon-perpétuation de la dépendance;
- Rôle croissant de la femme dans le développement rural;
- Promotion de circuits de commercialisation transparents.
Ces objectifs, équationnés et discutés pendant la préparation du 2nd Plan National de Développement, seront atteints par l'application d'un ensemble de mesures politiques:
- Promotion de la production, en utilisant les instruments représentant différents états de maturité pour que les paysans les utilisent comme de véritables entrepreneurs, ce sont les prix degarantie, le crédit agricole, l'approvisionnement en facteurs de production et un système de liberté de prix de vente.
Comme support de cet ensemble de mesures, nous avons créé un Fonds de Stabilisation et Sécurité Alimentaire, et un Système National de Crédit Agricole en phase d'organisation.
En ce qui concerne les mesures politiques pour la protection de l'environnement, la Loi d'utilisation des sols, la réglementation de la Loi forestière et le Code des Eaux sont des instruments à utiliser pour que le renversement de la tendance se transforme en un pas en avant, qualitativement important en terme de préservation du patrimoine naturel cap-verdien.
Par l'application coordonnée de tous ces moyens, nous prétendons atteindre les objectifs cités et contribuer de façon décisive à une réorganisation correcte du territoire. Les différentes activités seront localisées en accord avec les potentialités locales en se basant sur un principe de décentralisation équitable, pour que la croissance du taux d'urbanisation diminue et que la concentration dans les centres urbains principaux diminue au profit des centres secondaires.
En faisant un bilan extrêmement brel de deux années d'application de ces mesures et orientations, je pourrais dire que l'agriculture capverdienne donne les premiers signes d'amélioration et de réadaptation à ses contraintes climatiques; le niveau de satisfaction des besoins de base des populations rurales croît régulièrement, le commérce extérieur tend à évoluer dans un sens moins défavorable et notre dette extérieure présente des valeurs supportables pour notre économie.
Malgré l'existence de nombreux problèmes à résoudre pour réaliser les objectifs choisis, la volonté politique et la compréhension de la communauté internationale permettent une grande espérance.
Pour sortir du sous-développement, il faut aussi compter avec la coopération internationale. Avec la coopération bilatérale, bien sûr, mais aussi avec la coopération multilatérale. Mon Gouvernement considère que la coopération multilatérale ne doit pas être moins forte que la coopération bilatérale. 11 faut que les organisations du système des Nations Unies puissent disposer des moyens nécessaires pour mener une coopération qui est essentielle pour nos pays et qui doit être complémentaire de ce qu'on fait déjà au niveau bilatéral.
A cet égard, je ne peux que regretter la faiblesse du budget qui nous est proposé pour le prochain exercice 1988-1989. Ce budget est insuffisant pour permettre à la FAO de répondre aux énormes besoins en matière de développement agricole.
La coopération internationale présuppose le respect absolu de l'égalité et de la souveraineté des membres de la Communauté internationale..
Ce principe étant posé, je ne peux que m'étonner de certaines propositions de réforme qui consisteraient, si elles étaient adoptées, à donner à quelques Etats' Membres plus de pouvoirs qu'à d'autres. En matière de budget et de programme ordinaire, il n'y a ni donateurs, ni receveurs. Il n'y a que des membres qui, selon des règles constitutionnelles et financières précises versent leurs contributions et décident en commun des activités et des programmes de l'Organisation. Laisser entendre qu'à l'heure actuelle les décideurs ne sont pas les payeurs est une conception fausse et inacceptable.
Je viens à peine d'avancer l'idée, que je n'aurais aucun mal à démontrer, que les pays aux revenusles plus modestes font déjà un effort plus important que les pays riches pour soutenir notreOrganisation.
Une conception différente introduirait l'injustice et le déséquilibre dans les relations entre Etats Membres et marquerait la fin de la coopération internationale.
Le respect de l'égalité souveraine des Etats n'exclut pas, bien au contraire, une adaptation de la coopération aux besoins et moyens spécifiques de chacun.
L'aide alimentaire est nécessaire pour faire face aux situations critiques, mais elle ne saurait supplanter le problème plus vaste et plus profond de la sécurité alimentaire nationale, surtout dans les pays insulaires comme le nôtre. Nous faisons donc appel plus que jamais à l'action à long terme de la FAO. Cette action, nous la définissons ensemble à cette Conférence, et j'aimerais donc m'arrêter quelques instants sur les points les plus importants de notre ordre du jour. J'ai déjà mentionné la question du budget et fait allusion à certaines propositions de réformes qui n'apparaissent à mon pays que comme une nouvelle tentative d'affaiblir les institutions internationales et le multilatéralisme.
En ce qui concerne le Programme de coopération technique, nous sommes d'avis qu'il faut le maintenir et le renforcer eu égard à notre expérience très vaste dans l'application de ce Programme. Le PCT nous permet en effet de développer les études nécessaires à la préparation des dossiers indispensables pour la recherche de financement de maints projets identifiés et importants pour notre développement qui, d'autre façon, n'aurait jamais eu de chance d'être concrétisé.
L'étude sur l'aide en nature a mérité toute notre attention. Nous partageons pleinement l'idée selon laquelle l'accès aux intrants et aux moyens de production est un facteur décisif du développement agricole. Il faut donc améliorer l'approvisionnement en produits industriels nécessaires á l'agriculture, améliorer leur distribution, établir des facilités de paiement pour l'achat de ces produits, et s'assurer du soutien technique nécessaire à l'entretien et à la bonne utilisation du matériel. Les propositions de la FAO sont donc d'un très grand intérêt et reçoivent le plein appui de mon pays.
En tant que Représentant du Gouvernement du Cap-Vert, je ne saurais manquer de m'attarder sur le point 16 de notre ordre du jour, c'est-à-dire sur le suivi donné à la Conférence mondiale des peches. Cette Conférence fut une des importantes initiatives prises par l'Organisation au cours des douze dernières années, une initiative extraordinairement utile et précieuse pour un pays insulaire comme le nôtre. Nous avons pris nos responsabilités et accompli notre part dans l'application de la Stratégie adoptée par la Conférence des pêches de 1984.
Eu égard aux contraintes de temps auquclles nous sommes soumis, je ne saurais être plus long. Ma délégation aura l'occasion de s'exprimer sur tous les points de l'ordre du jour au cours des débats qui se dérouleront au sein des Commissions.
Je vais donc terminer en vous réitérant nos meilleurs voeux de succès dans l'exécution de votre tache et notre totale disponibilité de coopération pour que la présente Conférence soit un véritable succès.
Robert SEVCOVIC (Czechoslovakia) (original language Slovak): On behalf of the Head oí the
Delegation of the Czechoslovak Socialist Republic, Mr Miroslav Toman, Deputy Prime Minister and
Minister of Agriculture and Food, I have the honour to deliver his statement addressed to this prominent assembly of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization.
This general conference is taking pince in a period when throughout the entire United Nations system, including all specialized agencies, much thought is being given to the possibilities of increasing their effectiveness and, at the same time preventing growth of administrative expenses in a period when all Member Governments strive to manage their State budgets with austerity, in the most economical way.
Czechoslovakia is one of the 42 nations who signed in 1945 the Founding Charter of our organization. Czechoslovakia fully acknowledges the leading role of FAO in multilateral cooperation in world agriculture, fisheries and forestry as well as FAO's irreplaceable role in rural development. In the most difficult years of the FAO history we have always been fulfill ling our duties ensuing from membership in the Organization with responsibility and to the full extent despite the fact that the geographical representation of my country both at headquarters and in field is far from corresponding to the high international qualification level of Czechoslovak experts and institutions, to the tradition of our agricultural, rural and cooperative movements dating hundreds of years back, to our present successes in solving the food problem and in developing modern agrarian structures, thus being far from adequate to the legitimate rights of my country.
I should like to declare from this rostrum that my delegation is ready to support new initiatives for strengthening and further enhancing the effectiveness of FAO's work and to put forward concrete proposals of its own on how to consolidate international cooperation, understanding and consensus in solving essential problems both within the framework of the whole Organization and at the all-European level, being a member country of the European region of FAO.
Having reached agreement to that effect with other socialist countries of the European region we, as a founding member of FAO, shall present our candidature for membership in the Council, and we hope that the other member countries of the Organization will support our candidature being aware of the fact that this group of countries wishes to take in the next period many useful steps to provide for better cooperation both with developing countries associated in the Group of 77 and with the western countries with different socio-economic systems.
Pursuing that objective, we have decided to raise the permanent representation to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization to the level of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary. This is another expression of my Government's commitment to the future of FAO and its significance. The Czechoslovak Government has charged the institutions that have the potential to strengthen the activity of FAO as well as the FAO National Committee to study in detail the programme of work together with the medium-term plan of FAO's activities and to propose concrete actions for participation in the development programmes.
In Rome as well as at General Conference of other agencies, we advocate the opinion that agencies would profit from better regional concentration of programmes. If approximately identical priorities of national development programmes are reached at the regional level, it is possible to facilitate both the cooperation with advanced European countries and stimulate TCDC and ECDC and other forms of cooperation and to enhance self-reliance of developing countries strengthening their national sovereignty and faster progress.
FAO, despite all financial difficulties, has enough power and enough authority to deepen and intensify in the field of its activity the coordination of broad international and special cooperation, to contribute to the formation of new approaches not only to the solving of problems of developing countries, but also to the international economic security as a way of eliminating under-development.
In addition to the programmes based on Regular Budget and Field Programme involving contributions by UNDP or funded from other extrabudgetal sources, our Organization should also pay attention to the support of the European cooperation, fruitful exchange of information and experience among all European member countries. We are glad to state that the Regional Conference for Europe organized in cooperation with the UN Economic Commission for Europe, since the regional conference in Reykiavik has become a truly European forum at ministerial level and thus contributing to fruitful dialogue among countries with different socio-economic systems and in this way also with different agricultural policies.
The system of cooperation by means of networks does not burden the budget of FAO but on the contrary, it becomes the basis of out-reaching, follow-up activities and enhances the possibilities of cooperation with other regions, since a considerable part of world industrial and spiritual potential, scientific research, including that concerning tropical and subtropical agriculture, veterinary medicine", animal ,and genetic resources is concentrated in Europe.
Czechoslovakia is assisting the work of FAO in this region by hosting many sessions and international workshops, such as most recently consultations on renewable energy resources for rural development, consultation and international seminars on soya-beans selection systems, a session of the Joint FAO/ ECE ‘Working Party on mechanization. For next year a workshop is being planned on remote sensing together with a meeting of the Research Group of the European Commission on Foot and Mouth Disease and this has been prepared and an invitation is being given to hold the next congress of EIFAC in 1990.
In this respect we advocate a greater geographical balance in FAO's planning of training courses, workshops and also the granting of fellowships.
It is in the interests of universality and geographical balance of the Organization to improve the geographical representation in all bodies and functions of the agency. It does not benefit our efforts if some countries, including ours, are very under-represented. In fact, they are not represented at all, oven in the elected bodies.
Czechoslovakia, all socialist countries, and many other countries, are also in favour of a greater rotation of staff. There should be no problem to reduce in the future the number of ongoing or permanent contracts in the new vacancies.
Two highly important branches deserve the attention of our Organization in the medium-term and present-day programme: the relation of the environment to agricultural production, and the development of biotechnologies - the main issue of the development of agricultural sciences for the whole period of the next decade.
This is where the European countries (including my own country located in the very heart of Europe), with their positive results and, also, unfortunate experiences, can contribute to world-wide cooperation on many issues. A revised study on "Agriculture Towards 2000" is presented to this Conference, and we arc informed of the suggestion to hold, within the framework of the next Regional Conference for Europe, in Krakow, in August 1988, a discussion on all-European prospects in Agriculture, at least as regards those questions which seem to be of common priority interest both in the East and the West of our continent. The experience of the old continent may be a source of advice in many aspects, and the Czechoslovak Socialist Republic supports this idea. However, such basis of discussion cannot be worked out only by the Secretariat; it requires consultation with highly qualified and experienced experts representing the sub-regional groupings. Czechoslovakia is ready to take an active part in these discussions.
The main indisputable priority of our Organization is constituted by technical assistance to the developing countries, primarily African States, but others as well. We support the main directives of the programmes proposed by the Director-General for 1988-1989 together with the medium-term programme. On the latter we have some concrete comments which we shall put forward during the deliberations in the First and Second Commissions of the Conference.
Certain concern is caused by the relatively slow process of approval of the Country Programmes, from which only 60 are either approved or prepared for the Fourth Programme Cycle of the UNDP for the
years 1987-1991.
With regard to the UNDP, of which FAO continues to be the main partner during the Fourth Programme Cycle, we have welcomed the feasibil ity study made by the Secretariat on the possibilities of the so-called Aid-in-Kind, especially as far as agricultural inputs for African agriculture are concerned. In Czechoslovakia, we are studying new possibilities but we assume that especially FAO will use, within the context of UNDP, the accumulated resources stemming from the voluntary contribution of the Czechoslovak Government to UNDP, expressing our good will with regard to Aid-in-Kind system. It is necessary and possible to use these available resources for the material input and technical expertise for the developing countries.
In Czechoslovakia there is one inhabitant to every 0.31 hectares of arable land. According to FAO's World Crop and Livestock Statistics, Czechoslovakia had raised the labour productivity 2.8 times since 1950 in the sectors of agricultural production covered therein, in conditions variable in ail ecological aspects. Agricultural, as you can see, has become a stabilized component of our national economy. From being an importing country, we have progressed to become a country with a stable food balance - in fact, self-sufficient in the fundamental foodstuffs produced in the European mild temperate zone. Highly democratized participation of our people (including women) in the management of agriculture has brought success within the agricultural cooperative movement of present-day Czechoslovakia.
Solving the problems of hunger, malnutrition and poverty in developing countries has been seriously delayed by the inadequacy of funds for this humanitarian goal. In this connection, Mr Chairman, once again I would like to draw your attention to the fact that even a part of the money presently being spent by the industrialized countries for armaments could, if transferred to peaceful development activities, resolve the world food problem. Recently, the International Conference on the Relationship between Disarmament and Development clearly demonstrated the enormous possibilities which disarmament could open up.
The Czechoslovak Socialist Republic supports this idea and proposes, together with other Socialist countries, to establish an International Fund "Disarmament for Development", from which FAO could profit to finance its many activities for development.
In our view, the final solution of this serious global problem - the eradication of hunger, malnutrition and poverty - does not depend only on periodic donations of external financial and Aid-in-Kind to the developing countries. The basic prerequisite still remains that we must establish a new international economic order together with international economic security as an integral part of the complex system of International Peace and Security. FAO, one of the most important international organizations, has to make its contribution to these noble aims.
Before concluding, I am particularly happy to be able to reiterate the cordial and sincere congratulations my Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture have presented to the Director-General on his re-election to this very high responsibility.
Toivo T. POHJALA (Finland): Mr Chairman, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of the Finnish delegation, I should like to congratulate Kuwait on her election to the Chair of the Conference. I am also very pleased to see the Netherlands as a Vice-Chairman of this meeting. The issues on the agenda of the Twenty-fourth Conference are exceptionally important and difficult but I am certain that with your able leadership, Mr Chairman, we will achieve fruitful results.
I congratulate, on behalf of my Government, Mr Edouard Saouma on his re-election as our Director-General for a third period. T assure the Director-General of our full support for his efforts to steer our organization through the challenges it will face in the 1990s.
The main duty of our organization is the fight against hunger and malnutrition. When we take stock of the developments in the last years we see both victories and defeats. The favourable weather conditions in 1985-86 produced better crops in Africa. However, alarming news is again coming from some parts of Africa. This shows that there is no reason for complacency. Tireless efforts are needed both from African countries and from the international community, including FAO, to reverse the calamitous trends on the continent.
It is a fact that hunger and malnutrition are increasing worldwide and their growth has accelerated in the 1980s. It is also a fact that poverty lies at the core of the problem of hunger. The poor are growing in number. Rural poverty is increasing in the developing regions. Some 780 million people in the developing world were estimated to live in conditions of absolute poverty in 1980.
FAO's study "Agriculture Towards 2000" states that agricultural growth generally - but not always -lessens rural poverty. Better agricultural performance generally results in a lower price of food, higher agricultural wage rates and employment and consequently a lower incidence of rural poverty. However, with very unequal distribution of assets, especially land, most of the benefits ot growth in the agricultural sector as a whole will largely by-pass small farmers and agricultural workers.
Coming from a country where forestry plays a major role in various fields of life, I emphasize forestry problems. They are most acute in the tropics where the forest cover is decreasing rapidly under the pressure of expanding populations and of hunger for land on which to grow additional crops. In temperate forests, like in Europe, air pollution which is combined with the industrial development has become a subject of major concern: significant areas of forests are being threatened. Thus forestry research has an important role under these conditions.
Finland has traditionally devoted between 10 to 20 percent of its bilateral aid to forest-related activities. Finland shall continue this work. The FAO Tropical Forestry Action Plan will serve as a guiding principle in the planning of Finnish aid.
As regards other FAO actions, the priority should be given to those which FAO is particularly well qualified to conduct and for which there is no other comparable source of support. The emphasis should be given to providing the informational and analytical base necessary to identify what needs to be done. In this respect the inventory of forest resources and planning based on it are of particular importance. Finland welcomes FAO's and ECE's initiative to carry out the assessment of the world's forest resources in 1990 and was very glad to host the preparatory meetings of experts in the last week of October this year.
The political, social and economic environment where our organization operates changes in the course of time. That means that the member countries should from time to time reconsider FAO's policies and priorities, structure and organization. I believe that this kind of review is now needed. We must ask ourselves what is FAO's role in the future. How can our organization serve its members, especially developing countries, in the most effective way?
I recall that at the close of the last Conference of FAO in 1985 the Chairman of the Conference called upon the membership to use the 1985-87 period to examine the role and priorities of the Organization in time for the next Conference. In the light of this and because of the interest my country takes in the development and work of FAO, we have during the present biennium actively been discussing the future activities and structure of FAO. The Nordic Countries have presented their own views in a background paper of this Conference. Finland stands ready to participate actively in the consultations on this issue in order to find a common view.
In order to accomplish its tasks, FAO should have a safe financial base. My Government has followed with concern the difficult financial situation of this Organization.
In the opinion of my government, all organizations of the UN system should strive for maximum efficiency on a stable and reliable financial basis. The former cannot be achieved without the latter. A sound financial basis cannot be established unless all Member States demonstrate their willingness to meet their financial obligations. This concerns also the FAO. Finland has always met punctual with its financial obligations. We expect that all others will honour their commitments towards FAO also in this respect.
Alexi IVANOV (Bulgaria) (original language Bulgarian): Mr Chairman, first of all I would like to congratulate you and the other members of the bureau upon your election to these important posts, and to wish you success in the conduction of the session. I should like to express our most sincere regards to the honourable Dr Saouma on his re-election to the post of Director-General of FAO.
We are ail aware of the fact that the issues which stand on the session's agenda are important and topical; we would also like to believe that this session will make one step forward towards the promotion of farming and nutrition - two fields of major importance for mankind:
All of us who do their best to assist the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization in the successful performance of its objectives and its role, have been seriously involved in these issues. Here I would like to mention a fact which has been the cause of our growing concern: the continuation of the improper distribution of agricultural production, as well as the need for developing countries to spend more currency for imports of foodstuffs. There is a considerable number of developing countries which can meet their domestic needs in foodstuffs only to a very limited extent; more than half a billion people on the planet are starving in spite of the overproduction in many developed countries.
We understand the objective fact that multilateral cooperation within the FAO framework is one of the factors which could strongly influence the solution of some major issues of nutrition and farming that many countries, and developing countries in the first place, are facing. However, we would like to underscore that the solution of the food issue should not be sought in the development of agriculture alone. It is closely linked with a number of other global issues of our times; all the more so because of the growing interdependence among states. In fact, the food crisis is not only the consequence of natural or climatic conditions, but is part of the major issue of overcoming economic backwardness and dependence resulting from different political, economic, demographic and social factors.
Judging from the experience we have, we consider that no important change for the better could be realized in the absence of some radical and effective structural and progressive socio-political changes, in accordance with the requirements of the developing countries' national economies. Specific steps towards the reduction of military expenditure would not only strengthen international security but would also free considerable resources for the purposes of development, and that means for agriculture and food, too. There is no doubt that all United Nations organizations should make their own contribution to safeguarding peace and preventing a nuclear holocaust. In the world of today, when a new type of political thinking is required, our aspirations - that is, the aspirations of the international community - should be focussed on the promotion of a large-scale, multilateral, equitable, and mutually beneficial cooperation, free from confrontation and tension in relations among states. We welcome with satisfaction the agreement of principle between the Soviet Union and the United States of America for the elimination of a whole range of nuclear weapons; the implementation of this agreement will benefit all mankind.
I take this opportunity to state that the People's Republic of Bulgaria has always shown proof of its understanding for the needs of the population in developing countries threatened by famine, and has assisted them within its possibilities. My Government's consistent policy is aimed at further developing the country's agro-industrial complex, which will facilitate assistance in the future.
We start from the premise that our experience in coping with the problems related to farming and food might be of interest and use to other countries.
I would like to express my country's readiness to share her experience in this field with developing countries in the future. Bulgaria evaluates FAO's activities positively. We consider that regardless of existing difficulties, and owing to the efforts of the majority of the Member States, some
progress has been made. However, the possibilities for cooperation have not been exhausted; the Organization should try to identify all priority fields, in accordance with the needs of developing countries. We believe that a careful study should be made of the experience we have gathered so far jointly, which in turn will facilitate FAO in finding solutions to the issues of agriculture and food.
Other important items on the session's agenda are FAO's plan and budget for the period 1988/89. Our delegation considers that the Organization" s efforts should be focussed on the most effective use of the means available, in projects which are most closely related to the needs of the individual Member States.
The People's Republic of Bulgaria assesses positively FAO's Work Plan, and expresses its steadfast readiness to assist the Organization in its implementation. May I underscore the need for supporting those priority projects under the plan which aim at some radical structural changes, or at raising the socio-political and economic awareness of the population. The results of the cooperation between my country and the Organization make it possible for us to state again our readiness to participate further, in a more active way, in the implementation of the Organization's objectives, and to cooperate with the countries that need assistance in this field. The People's Republic of Bulgaria will continue to participate in the international cooperation in fishing and will expand her joint activities with the interested parties.
Let me also mention one important anniversary the world has been celebrating these days, and that is the 70th anniversary of the Great October Revolution, which paved the way for the establishment of effective conditions for the democratization of international relations and for peaceful coexistence among all nations and states, guaranteeing at the same time their sovereignty and independence.
This year Bulgaria celebrates her 20th anniversary as a FAO Member State. For 20 years now, my country has been coordinating its activities with the noble activities of the United Nations and FAO, in the march for the promotion of farming, and the elimination of famine and undernourishment worldwide.
We have many years of experience in the creation of a planned, large-scale intensified agriculture; we can share this experience with all developing countries willing to do so. Following the consistent implementation of our agrarian policy Bulgaria's agriculture has been intensified. Over the last ten years, the average annual rate of growth of agricultural production and the food industry amounted to 3.2 percent. At present, we use new criteria and approaches for the purposes of a technological renovation of farming. Qualitative changes are also under way in the management and methodology of this branch of the economy.
The new forms of management are accompanied by changes in the credit and monetary relations with the banks. The agricultural units are independent with respect to the introduction of new technologies and to the organization of production; strong centralization of management is not recommended. These processes form part and parcel of deep transformations in Bulgarian farming which bring about positive changes in social conditions.
The housing fund in the villages has been almost completely renovated. Working farmers are entitled to pensions of the same amount as industrial workers.
To conclude, may I express my country's belief that this session of the General Conference of FAO will offer an impetus for the promotion of world farming, and for the successful solution of the food issues.
Thank you.Ignaz KIECHLE (Germany, Federal Republic of) (original language German): Mr Chairman, I have the honour to congratulate our colleague Mr Khalid on behalf of the Federal Republic of Germany on his election to the chairmanship of this Conference. He and his Vice-President can be assured of my support and that of my delegation in their task.
Yesterday, we performed one of our most important duties as the highest body of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in electing the Director-General. To Director-General Saouma I wish to convey the congratulations of the Federal Republic of Germany and also my own personal congratulations on his re-election. For the Organization there is a difficult road ahead. FAO and its Director-General will find in us, as in the past, a reliable partner. We hope for continued trustful cooperation and we wish much success and fortune in fulfilling the important tasks ahead.
We also wish to express our thanks to the distinguished Vice-President of IFAD, Mr. Mensah, for having been prepared to make himself available as a candidate for this important task to the benefit of FAO. We wish to express to him our great respect for his commitment and his personal attitude.
Since our last Conference, the Twenty-third Conference in November two years ago, the economic environment has improved in some fields. Here, in particular, I wish to highlight the Louvre Accord of February 1987 which, despite all the criticism recently expressed, contributes to stabilization of currencies, and also the declarations of the ORCD Ministerial Meeting and the Economic Summit held in Venice in May and/or June of this year, which inter alia dealt with the improvement of world trade relations also in the agricultural sector.
I hope that all this will not fail to have its positive impact on the Uruguay Round of GATT. Negotiating guidelines in this framework have already been adopted by the Council of the European Communities on 20th October 1987. With the other Member States of the European Community, we will continue to advocate multi latera 11 y concerted action in order to overcome the worldwide crisis in agricultural markets.
Here the Federal Republic of Germany gives its support to a preferential treatment of developing countries, particularly with respect to tariff facilitation and a reduction of the escalation of duties for tropical products. The Federal Government hopes to contribute in this way to the solution of the debt problems of developing countries. In this respect we are also prepared to reduce internal consumer taxes on coffee and tea.
However, we deem it important that developing countries on their part, according to the degree of the development level they have reached, should also assume responsibility within the framework of GATT.
Developing countries have a very good chance in the Uruguay Round of bringing in their interests. The events of the so-called black Monday, the 19th October of this year, reflect the sensitivity with which the world economic system at present reacts, the effects of which we have not yet quite overcome.
In agriculture enormous achievements have been made all over the world over the past years. We need to thank above all the farmers and their families. Today the farmers of the world feed over a thousand million people more than they did only twelve years ago. On 11 June this year the number of human beings amounted to over five thousand million.
Our successes achieved so far in being able to feed more and more people should be an encouragement to us to tackle in a concerted effort of the international community with even greater determination the world food and agricultural problems which despite these successes have unfortunately not yet been solved. My Government makes its contribution to that and will continue to do so with full commitment.
In 1986, as in 1985, the world food situation has further improved. I greatly welcome the fact that developing countries were able to markedly increase their agricultural production with a growth of 1.62 percent. Food security as a whole has gotten greater. Particularly gratifying in 1986 were the positive results in Africa, where there was a 4 percent increase in agricultural production, thus enabling Africa to keep pace with the increase in population.
Less favourable was world trade development. Experts expect losses for the past year and during the first six months of 1987. The degree of indebtedness of many developing countries still remains a difficult and pressing problem which we can only solve together in the long term. The Government of my country will be a reliable partner in this respect.
Subsequent to Resolution 165 ot UNCTAD of 10 March 1978, it has already waived in the case of 24 states among the least developed countries, the repayment (principle and interest) of DM 4.2 thousand million. With three other countries which were partly included recently in the United Nations list of the least developed countries, government agreements on debt cancellation of almost DM 200 thousand million had already been concluded newly in 1986. Eight further countries of this category have "received from us non-repayable grants from the very outset. The Federal Republic of Germany accounts for 61 percent of the debts waived by industrial countries, pursuant to the agreement of 10 March 1978, Resolution 165.
We will continue to pursue our successful policy of adjusting debts on a case-by-case basis, and we hope there will be stronger involvement and participation on the part of other countries. Regionally, agricultural production has shown varying degrees of development. Africa and the Near East have achieved increases which are gratifying. Particularly in Africa the clear statements of political will as expressed in 1984 and 1986 begin to pay. It was right to give top priority to agricultural production and to channel 25 percent of all public investment to agriculture in the future.
The Federal Republic of Germany, in its development cooperation programme, has always focused on the principle of aid for self-help. From 1950 to 1986 we have made net contributions of over DM 275 thousand million to the. cooperation with developing countries and multilateral organizations, of which DM 112 thousand million withing the context of public development cooperation on concessional terms. In 1986, approximately DM 8.3 thousand million were made available for that purpose. As regards private donations to development cooperation, the figure for 1986 is approximately DM 1.2 thousand million.
The net contribution of economy on normal market terms to developing countries increased from DM 4.3 thousand million in 1985 to approximately DM 5.2 thousand million in 1986. We have given high priority to agriculture and rural developments within the framework of that cooperation. In the future this cooperation, according to production progress in individual countries, will have to give greater focus to problems in connection with processing, storage, distribution and marketing, and here we need an integrated system to be devised.
My country is in value terms the world's third biggest net importer of food commodities and per capita of the population the biggest food importer. In the first six months of this year alone we imported worth DM 12.7 thousand million more food commodities than exported. Thus a development in foreign trade has continued in my country which has already been noticed for long.
We have large import surpluses of food commodities. Particularly big is the gap between the imports and exports of food commodities in the trade between the Federal Republic of Germany and developing countries. In 1986 we had an import surplus of DM 10.9 thousand million. In this way developing countries, in the trade with the Federal Republic of Germany, could cover about 80 percent of their trade balance deficit in industrial goods.
The figures which I have just quoted here also show that the often cited increase in agricultural protectionism is as far as the Federal Republic of Germany is concerned out of the question.
In this Conference we will also discuss the question of reform of our Organization. My delegation has stressed time and time again that for us reform in the sense of an adjustment to changing conditions is a natural and on-going process which is tacitly on the agenda. Our main concern must be that FAO makes sure that its work is in line with practical needs. If for this purpose a majority of member states feels it is necessary to have a high-level working group set up, then we are quite willing to support that proposal. One should not forget that FAO also in past years has done professionally qualified, sound work. If we talk about changes, adjustments and improvements, we should also include in this review our participation in the work of FAO.
The study on Agriculture: 2000 submitted for the first time in 1979 to the FAO Conference was revised with success. I cannot only largely agree to the results, but wish to commend the Secretariat for this thorough and helpful work.
I welcome the priorities that have been set in the new draft budget for the period 1988/89. With regard to all programmatic and financial policy decisions we all undoubtedly agree that for all actions the principle of the greatest possible economy must also apply to international organizations. The United Nations family cannot spend more money than it receives.
In conclusion, I wish to thank the Director-General and all his staff for the good preparations for this Conference. To the Chairman and Vice-Chairmen I wish good luck in guiding this important Conference. The international community will not measure the outcome of our Conference by the quantity of the printed paper, because paper does not feed people. The 450 million hungry people who need our help so urgently are waiting for our actions.
João Pereira Silva, Vice-Chairman of the Conference, took the chair
João Pereira Silva, Vice-Président de la Conférence, assume la présidence
Ocupa la presidencia João Pereira Silva, Vicepresidente de la Conferencia
Kasdi MERBAH (Algérie)(langue originale arabe): Je joins d'autant plus volontiers ma voix à toutes celles qui m'ont précédé pour vous féliciter de votre brillante élection et vous souhaiter plein succès dans la tache délicate qui est la vôtre, qu'entre l'Algérie et le Koweit, pays frères unis par la solidarité arabe, existent des relations d'estime et de coopération bâties sur la confiance réciproque. Votre brillante élection traduit, outre vos qualités personnelles et professionnelles, la confiance unanime que vous manifestent les pays et constitue un gage pour le succès des travaux de ces importantes assises.
Mes félicitations sont destinées aussi aux membres du bureau qui vous seconderont efficacement, j'en suis sûr, dans l'exécution de votre tache difficile.
Je tiens aussi, m'adressant à Monsieur Edouard Saouma, à lui exprimer mes vives félicitations pour sa réélection au redoutable poste de Directeur général de la FAO, ainsi qu'à lui formuler nos meilleurs voeux pour la réussite dans l'accomplissement de sa mission noble, mais combien ardue.
Monsieur Edouard Saouma est bien connu de nous tous et avec son expérience, son engagement, ainsi que son dynamisme, notre organisation parviendra à des résultats qui seront, nous en sommes certains, à la hauteur des espoirs que nous plaçons en elle.
Nos travaux, qui porteront sur un ordre du jour particulièrement chargé et aborderont des problèmes graves de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, se déroulent dans un contexte mondial défavorable et inquiétant, dans une situation difficile pour notre organisation qui vit un moment crucial, ainsi que dans un climat peu propice aux efforts considérables, mais limités, déployés par les pays du tiers monde en vue de lutter contre le sous-développement, la malnutrition et la faim, voire la misère.
Ainsi, à l'échelon mondial, nous avons enregistré, ces dernières années, une progression lente de la croissance, particulièrement dans les pays en voie de développement qui ont été encore les plus touchés. De tels résultats ne font, malheureusement, qu'accentuer davantage l'écart qui existait d'une part, entre les pays pauvres, des millions de personnes dans certains d'entre eux continuant à subir les affres de l'insécurité alimentaire, n'ayant même plus les moyens de se procurer leur nourriture, et, d'autre part, les pays riches qui sont toujours confrontés à des problèmes de surproduction et de stocks alimentaires.
La production agricole et alimentaire, d'après les documents qui nous sont soumis, a progressé faiblement dans les pays en voie de développement, puisqu'elle a été en deçà de l'objectif de 4% fixé et qui fut atteint néanmoins au cours des cinq premières années de la décennie.
De même, les exportations agricoles des pays en voie de développement ont accusé une baisse de 9% en 1986.
En ce qui concerne, en particulier l'Afrique, qui se trouve dans la première année d'exécution du Programme d'Action des Nations-Unies pour 1986-90, et dans la seconde, pour l'application du programme de redressement de l'OUA, les chiffres nous indiquent, certes, une légère croissance, en 1986, pour la production vivrière. Cependant, il importe d'ajouter que ce continent vient de se remettre de la sécheresse qui l'avait frappé, ce qui explique en partie ce résultat si modeste soit-il mais positif. En revanche, les indices dont nous disposons nous laissent prévoir une évolution non encourageante ou égard, notamment, aux engagements pris par la communauté internationale, surtout sur le plan de l'assistance bilatérale ou à des conditions de faveur pour relever le défi dans cette région.
Par ailleurs, les bouleversements actuels que connaissent l'ensemble des places financières comportent les prémices d'un désordre économique et social à l'échelle planétaire et nous incitent par conséquent, à une réflexion profonde et partant, à une réaction appropriée.
En effet, une situation aussi explosive relève, pour nous, d'un mal beaucoup plus sérieux dont les origines dépassent les simples considérations techniques.
Tout d'abord, le fardeau de la dette, qui a atteint un seuil intolérable selon les informations dont nous disposons, constitue l'une des causes principales.
Par ailleurs, la détérioration des termes de l'échange, la fluctuation incessante des taux de change et le marasme des marchés mondiaux représentent d'autres facteurs essentiels et nous dictent une démarche conséquente en vue de mettre un terme aux égoîsmes nationaux et aux mesures protectionnistes des pays qui pénalisent sévèrement les pays en voie de développement.
L'insuffisance des capacités d'investissements accompagnée d'une hémorragie de capitaux à partir des pays pauvres, tout cela contraint ceux-ci à des mesures d'ajustement hautement préjudiciables à leurs dépenses budgétaires et aux conditions de vie des populations, ainsi cela, aboutit-il à des restrictions de leurs importations et à des efforts accrus d'exportations dans des conditions de prix faibles ou encore de rétrécissement de la demande.
D'énormes sommes sont consacrées aux armements, et cela au détriment du développement économique et soc ial.
Enfin, les politiques d'agression ou d'apartheid sont une menace pour la paix et un handicap sérieux pour certains peuples dans leur combat quotidien contre la faim et le sous-développement.
Tous ces problèmes et bien d'autres encore ne sauraient trouver valablement leur solution que dans un cadre multilatéral apte à déboucher sur un nouvel ordre économique international plus juste et plus équitable.
En effet, un développement économique harmonieux à l'échelon mondial ne saurait être réalisé sans une approche solidaire qui implique l'interdépendance des nations, sans un climat de paix et de sécurité et une réforme fondamentale des relations internationales qui ne marginaliseraient plus les pays en voie de développement.
Monsieur le président,
Abordant maintenant les activités de la FAO, je voudrais exprimer la position de l'Algérie sur certains points saillants de l'ordre du jour.
Tout d'abord, s'agissant de l'exercice qui s'achève, les documents qui nous sont présentés sont explicites quant aux obstacles de taille rencontrés par notre Organisation et aux mesures prises pour y remédier:
Il s'agit principalement, du non-recouvrement des contributions et des arriérés, qui a amené le Directeur général à des réajustements de programmes de l'ordre de 25 millions de dollars et a avoir recours au fonds de roulement, épuisé actuellement, qu'il faudra donc reconstituer.
A cet effet, je rappelle que l'Algérie, qui s'est régulièrement acquittée de sa contribution et qui, au demeurant en a retiré des dividendes insuffisants, est tout à fait à l'aise pour affirmer que la condition nécessaire et suffisante d'un rétablissement rapide de la situation est le règlement sans plus de délai des arriérés de contribution dont la majeure partie, il faut bien le constater, est le résultat de considérations purement politiques.
Il s'agit, de même, de la fluctuation du dollar qui s'est traduite aussi par un recours au Fonds de Réserve spécial, épuisé également et dont la reconstitution est nécessaire.
Il s'agit enfin de la baisse des taux d'intérêt qui a diminué notablement les recettes accessoires.
Aussi, le programme de travail et de budget, qui est soumis à notre approbation, n'est-il l'objet que d'une augmentation de 0,48 7%, c'est-à-dire négative en valeur réelle.
Toutefois et bien que l'enveloppe soit en deçà des énormes besoins exprimés par les pays en voie de développement, je tiens à faire part, ici, de notre approbation tant en ce qui concerne les objectifs, stratégies et priorités du programme, qu'en ce qui concerne la démarche adoptée qui privilégie les programmes techniques et économiques au détriment des dépenses administratives.
Je saisis cette occasion pour lancer un appel aux pays qui ont émis des réserves, afin de lever celles-ci et de permettre une adoption par consensus du programme de travail et budget de l'exercice que nous entamons.
En second lieu, le point 11 de l'ordre du jour et le document y afférent nous invitent à procéder à un réexamen portant sur l'orientation de base de la FAO, ainsi que sur les programmes de terrain et sur des modifications dans le fonctionnement ou dans la structure de son comité financier et de son secrétariat.
A cet effet, une formule nous est même proposée pour procéder à ce travail,, je veux parler du comité d'experts de haut niveau.
En somme, il est question bel et bien, sous le prétexte des difficultés ou incertitudes financières, d'une tentative de réforme radicale de notre organisation.
Je me dois, à ce sujet, de me joindre au mémoire du groupe des pays en voie de développement pour réaffirmer en particulier ce qui suit: Sur un plan purement formel, la situation que vit la FAO n'est pas due à un problème d'efficacité ou de gestion. Notre organisation dispose d'organes habilités en la matière et toute initiative de créer un comité d'experts de haut niveau ne nous paraît point indiquée.
Une réforme de cette nature devrait, de notre point de vue, découler d'une démarche plus large concernant le système des Nations Unies dans son ensemble et s'inscrire dans le contexte de la définition d'un nouvel ordre économique international.
En ce qui concerne les programmes de terrain, le rôle de la FAO est vital et nous considérons que toute formulo tendant à affaiblir ses attributions, au profit de relations bilatérales ou d'-nutrrs institutions internationales, ne peut que nuire aux intérêts et aux efforts des pays en voie de développement.
S'agissant enfin des objectifs, stratégies et priorités, nous pensons qu'ils relèvent d'instances appropriées et qu'ils ne sauraient être remis en cause.
En définitive, bien que disposés à examiner toutes propositions allant dans le sens d'une meilleure efficacité ou performance, nous ne saurions souscrire à toute tentative de porter atteinte au principe cardinal du consensus et aux structures de la FAO, c'est-à-dire au rôle premier que joue celle-ci dans l'assistance accordée à nos pays.
Enfin, il m'est agréable de faire part de notre satisfaction quant aux actions menées par la FAO, et qui concernent particulièrement notre continent qui bénéficie d'une priorité dans les activités de notre Organisation.
Monsieur le Président, quant au développement de l'agriculture dans mon pays, je voudrais porter à la connaissance de cette honorable assemblée que l'Algérie poursuit depuis quelques années déjà d'intenses efforts en vue d'augmenter la production agricole.
Notre objectif à moyen et long terme est une croissance de 6 pour cent annuelle, croissance qui permet à la fois de couvrir les besoins nouveaux engendrés par une démographie importante et ceux induits par l'amélioration du niveau de vie.
La place prépondérante qu'occupe le secteur de l'agriculture et de la pêche dans la politique économique nationale, les programmes spécifiques aux cultures et élevages qui visent l'augmentation de la production à travers celle des rendements, grâce à l'amélioration et la modernisation des techniques culturales et de la conduite des élevages, la qualité et l'intensité de l'appui à la. production, tout cela a permis d'enregistrer des augmentations de la production agricole sans précédent.
Entre 1984 et 1987, la production aura augmenté en volume de plus de 50 pour cent soit une augmentation annuelle moyenne de 11 pour cent.
Ainsi et pour la première fois, après une longue période de stabilisation du niveau de l'emploi dans l'agriculture, il a été constaté in création d'emplois nouveaux induits par le développement du secteur productif.
Autre effet et non des moindres en cette période où le phénomène de crise internationale affecte les ressources de l'ensemble des pays en développement, et en particulier les pays du continent africain, l'augmentation de la production a permis de renverser la tendance à la hausse du niveau des importations alimentaires, donc de les réduire progressivement.
Nous considérons qu'ainsi nous pourrons atteindre un niveau de sécurité alimentaire en harmonie avec notre volonté depuis toujours affirmée d'indépendance, indépendance politique, économique, sociale et culturelle.
Monsieur le Président, en forme de conclusion à mes propos, permettez-moi de donner quelques précisions sur la nouvelle réforme engagée depuis quelques mois en Algérie.
Dans le souci d'une amélioration de la gestion des terres du secteur public qui constitue le tiers de la SAU, et pour renforcer les droits des travailleurs de ce secteur, une réorganisation a été engagée dont l'objet est la transformation des modes d'organisation et de gestion des exploitations du secteur public.
Cette réorganisation se caractérise notamment par une nouvelle distribution foncière des exploitations du secteur public, pour les rendre maitrisables, économiquement efficaces et davantage en rapport avec les possibilités réelles d'amélioration des productions. Ainsi les producteurs auront un droit de jouissance illimitée sur les terres qu'ils travaillent et un droit de propriété sur la surface (immeuble - matériel - cheptel) qui de ce fait deviendront cessibles et transmissibles.
Ainsi, nous espérons et nous voulons imprimer une dynamique nouvelle à notre agriculture.
Je voudrais, pour conclure, au nom de la délégation algérienne réitérer la volonté de. mon pays de développer la coopération avec la FAO. Je vous souhaite encore une fois plein succès dans vos travaux.
Josef RIEGLER (Austria) (original language German): Mr Chairman, Ladies and Gentlemen, permit me first of all to congratulate you, Mr Chairman and your two Vice-Chairmen on your election and to wish you every success in your activities during the Twenty-fourth FAO Conference.
I would particularly address my congratulations to Dr Edouard Saouma on his re-election to this responsible function, and I wish him and all in FAO success in those essential areas of finance and of further developments.
At present we are in a phase of development in agriculture, in agricultural trade, and in the agricultural policy discussions, which are particularly contradictory.
In spite of the great success in increasing food production, particularly in some African and Asian countries, there are still countries and regions on our earth which are fighting as before against the scourge of hunger. On the other hand, in the developed industrialized world, not because of the poverty and exploitation of farmers, nor because of a drastic lack of food, but because of food surpluses which cannot be got rid of, there is a strong demand for agricultural reform. The agricultural system of the industrialized countries does offer food in sufficient quality and quantity. It is no longer, however, in a position to cut the surpluses in the traditional lines of production, to reduce disposal costs, thus easing the public budgets and, at the same time, to ensure farmers' incomes. The agricultural policy of the industrialized countries, therefore, is an almost hopeless dilemma. The classical instruments of market, pricing and structural policies no longer seem to be able to solve the surplus problem.
The costs involved in financing surpluses have increased tremendously. This expenditure item has indeed almost reached its limits, and yet farmers' incomes are going down. On the other hand, due to falling prices, additional pressure is exerted on the agriculture of those regions which have to struggle against inadequate supplies. In fact the worldwide dilemma of agricultural policy is crying out loudly for a solution. We need an international concept for agricultural policy for the 1990s, and here no simple radical remedies can be given such as the exclusive movement of supply and demand. That is no longer enough. It is much more a matter of securing and developing the indispensable functions of agriculture and forestry in all regions of the world to the extent required.
For our country, Austria, which is an industrialized country with considerable tourist trade and a high share of mountain regions, we want to safeguard the following functions also for the future by means of independent rural agriculture and forestry: one, by producing food in order to meet supply crises; two, by way of participation of agriculture and forestry in energy production, but also in the provision of raw materials for the mechanical industry; three, appropriate settlement of population in rural areas, the maintenance of the infrastructure and the landscape (these activities are indispensable for the tourist trade); four, precautions against natural catastrophies in mountainous areas by mountain farming and by sustained forestry activities.
Similar demands on the domestic agriculture and forestry will emerge in most countries. This means that the international division of labour and the international agricultural trade is coming up against natural constraints. We are thus confronted with the challenge to develop an agricultural policy concept which eliminates the economically senseless competition in subsidies in order to dispose of surpluses and, at the same time, assists in maintaining or building up an efficient agriculture and forestry in all regions of the world.
Therefore, I emphatically support those proposals which are aimed at bringing to an end the mutual cutting down of subsidies to agricultural prices, thus giving fair income conditions to domestic agriculture and supporting with part of the economies in these export subsidies to help development of agriculture in seriously under-supplied regions.
It is important thus to bring about an agricultural policy which is tailored to society and which is in harmony with the environment while, at the same time, it tackles the very tight situation which prevails in the agricultural sector. The production of renewable energy and raw materials cannot only help ensure the existence of the farmers' livelihood, but also counteract the depletion of the limited ammount of raw material.
I believe that the agricultural policy, mainly that of the industrialized countries, has been reoriented and is following a new trend. The discussions within OECD, GATT and the European Community underline this. The question is now whether to take the path into an agricultural industry, thus putting an extra burden on nature and threatening many farms, or to seek a reasonable way to secure for the future a socially well-balanced rural agriculture. I may perhaps express the hope that FAO, as an international agricultural forum, in the future will give particular focus to these problems.
The implementation of agricultural objectives requires a package of measures. I hope that we will succeed in retaining this comprehensive view in the discussions within the international fora, such as FAO, OECD, the European Community and GATT, in order to avoid being led into another deadlock because of over-hasty reactions.
Austria attributes particular importance to the activities of the Food and Agricultural Organization of the UN. We fully support the programme priorities proposed by the Director-General of FAO. With satisfaction we have noted that these activities are contained also in the new Programme of Work for 1988/89. In particular, I refer to the further training activities, the improvement of the information systems, the Technical Cooperation Programme, and FAO's activities in the Africa Region.
Austria will make efforts also in the future constructively to support FAO's objectives.
We want to cooperate actively in the activities implemented in the European Region, such as the cooperative networks, energy networks, the training and advanced training in the field of agriculture and forestry. The results obtained are of special importance not only for Europe, but also for other regions. Europe of all continents should, to a greater extent, use its technical knowledge to the benefit of the developing countries.
I would like to emphasize in particular that farming and forest management, in harmony with the environment, will be vital in the future and that this aspect should be more carefully considered in the FAO Programme of Work. Likewise, the activities in extension, research, and experimentation as forward-looking activities, should be included on a larger scale.
Since its foundation in 1963 Austria has supported the activities of the World Food Programme and will continue adequately to contribute to this Programme.
Furthermore, Austria will also fulfill its obligations under the Food Aid Convention and the International Emergency Food Reserve of FAO.
For years Austria has supported selective FAO projects in the seed sector. In developing countries regional and national training programmes were carried out in this field. Advanced training was organized with Austrian assistance in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Moreover, instruction aids were elaborated in cooperation with FAO, which are used all over the world.
Furthermore, training courses in the field of forest road construction and logging in mountainous forests were held in Austria for participants from developing countries. These activities will be further continued under consideration of the latest findings.
Austria agrees to the submitted Draft Programme and Budget of FAO for 1988/89.
We all hope and wish that FAO be as efficient as possible. FAO's activities, therefore, have to be adjusted to the emerging changes, and priorities will have to be set.
The elaboration of strategies for the 1990's is a very urgent issue. Let us, therefore, set to work together. May FAO in its future activities make a valuable contribution to this end.
Gurdial Singh DHILLON (India): Mr Vice-Chairman, Director-General Dr Edouard Saouma, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is a matter of privilege and pleasure for me to address this august assembly. At the outset, allow me, Mr Vice-Ghairman, to extend to the Chairman my heartiest greetings on his election. I would also like to congratulate the Vice-Chairmen who, I am sure, will be of valuable assistance in conducting the session.
I may take this opportunity to also extend my warm felicitations to Dr Saouma, on his re-election as Director-General of FAO. His re-election is the expression of international confidence in the essential soundness of FAO's policies and programmes and their efficient implementation. I am sure that under his stewardship, FAO will continue its work with renewed vigour and with the full backing of all member countries. We recognise as stated by him in his speech yesterday that FAO is facing serious financial difficulties. We hope that reasonable solutions to the financial crunch being, faced by the FAO will be found and the effectiveness of FAO to deliver its programmes, to address the massive problems of poverty and hunger, will not be blunted for want of resources.
We are thankful to Prof Jean Meyer, an illustrious son of an illustrious father, for his deeply analysed, wide-ranging and comprehensive McDougall lecture on food and malnutrition. It is true that nutrition should not be seen as a simple corrective measure to malnutrition, but must provide a base for the planning of agricultural production. Intensive research on subsistence crops, the wide vistas opened by genetic engineering, the need for increase in nutrition education for women, the importance of providing access to food to the poor are important issues which Prof Meyer has touched with insight and illumination.
We deeply appreciate the Director-General's statement in which he analysed with clarity the world food situation, the financial position of the FAO, with its dire effects on programmes and personnel, and issues of reform in the organisation. We hope that the process of discussion and debate during this conference will identify appropriate remedies and solutions on the basis of consensus and contribute to strengthening the FAO as an instrument of progress that its founding fathers conceived it to be.
We have gathered here at a time when the problems and challenges in world food and agriculture are both acute and pressing. Between 1985 and 1986, the increase in agricultural production in the developing countries had decelerated by nearly half. A number of countries are reeling under a series of droughts and floods. The terms of trade of developing countries have further deteriorated. There are continuing problems of debt and protectionism. Damage to environment and ecology is continuing unbated. The available food resources are still beyond the reach of a large number of our poor. These trends are a matter of great concern to all of us.
FAO is the world organization dealing with these problems. This assembly of nations is an excellent forum to deliberate on these current problems and find some viable solutions.
The world food and agricultural situation has been outlined vividly and graphically in the address of the Director-General. He has drawn our attention to the decline in the world cereal output this year and some other ominous trends. In the context of an interdependent global economy and ecology, the developed and the developing countries need to work together in the interest of sustained global economic development and growth. At the same time, the developing countries should share their experience and technologies under frameworks for economic and technical cooperation.
In the field of food and agriculture, the most acute problem today relates to poverty and malnutrition. There are pockets both of plenty and scarcity. There is hunger, starvation and malnutrition in the midst of plenty. It is, therefore, imperative that adequate steps are taken to develop both food production and purchasing capabilities of the poor. Before I touch on what we have achieved in India and what we are seeking to do, I should like to express the sincere hope that developing countries attain self-sufficiency in food and that food security is ensured through international and regional cooperation so that people all over the world can live in dignity.
The experience of India in raising its food production and transforming a "ship-to-mouth" existence into a situation of comfortable buffer stocks, despite erratic monsoon behaviour, is well - known. India has to support almost 14% of the world's population and, while well - endowed in many ways, we too have been vulnerable to periods of drought, erratic rainfall or floods, sometimes leading to suffering and scarcity. After independence, our first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, developed a wide infrastructure of irrigation and power, established research institutions and introduced land reforms, thus laying the basis for all-round development. The green revolution was ushered in by our late Prime Minister, Mrs Gandhi, under whom India attained self-sufficiency in food. The break-through was the result of stable political conditions in which government, scientists, technologists and farmers ail played their parts. In specific terms, it was the result of a technology package and high-yielding varieties, increase in irrigation facilities, consumption of modern inputs backed by a strong delivery system; and assurances of remunerative prices to farmers. Today, we can say with satisfaction that the production of cereals in India after 1950 went up three times, production of wheat increased seven times and rice three times. It should be not only possible for us to support our growing population but also in a modest degree help some of our friends.
Food self-sufficiency was attained in spite of the effects of recurrent droughts and floods which afflicted various parts of our country from time to time. During the 20 years between 1966 and 1985, we have had seven peak points and an equal number of troughs in food production. Over these two decades, agriculture has, however, been able to develop a certain degree of resilience and inherent strength with its modernisation and rationalisation. The dips in food production in bad monsoon years were consequently not as steep as in earlier years. This is, however, not to say that we have had no problems.
Our average productivity is still low and we have yet to go a long way. There are imbalances in the production and productivity in different regions and in different crops. Although the irrigated area in the country has increased two and a half times over the last 30 years, 70% of the cropped area still remains rainfed and, therefore, subject to the vagaries of weather.
This year, we are facing the third year of successive drought in many parts of the country. It is considered to be the worst in intensity and spread in recent history. Some eastern parts of the country have been ravaged by floods. These calamities have brought our food production under severe strain. Government has, however, taken up a well-planned programme of recovery and assistance to face this grim situation. It is a massive job to mobilise food, fodder, seeds and other relief in
all parts of the country. It also means a severe burden on our resources and economy. The government is, however, doing everything to meet this unprecedented challenge and detailed strategies to insulate our agriculture from the uncertainties of weather are under implementation. Our Prime Minister is personally coordinating and monitoring the efforts in this direction. The increases achieved in production and productivity as a result of programmes geared to this end have helped us significantly in containing the ill-effects of the current drought which is one of the severest in memory.
We have drawn our development strategy for the growth of agriculture in a perspective of the next 15 years. Between 1985 and 2000 we are planning for a 60% increase in the production of foodgrains. Improved technology, better husbandry of our resources, better soil and water management and correction of crop and regional imbalances are some of the highlights of this strategy.
While developing our food production, other areas of farm related activities, like animal husbandry, dairying, poultry and aquaculture, have also been given due attention. Greater emphasis is being given to an "on farm'' approach so as to supplement the incomes of the rural families and improve their economies. During the last seven years, milk production has gone up roughly one and a half times. A national milk grid has also been set up to even out regional and seasonal imbalances in milk collection and distribution.
A vast potential in the fisheries sector in exclusive economic zones under national jurisdiction remains to be exploited. There is also much scope for promoting investment and transfer of technology in deep sea fishing for better exploitation of the available resources. Apart from schemes for increasing fish production, schemes have also been framed with their focus on improving the welfare and quality of life of small fishermen. Exports of marine products have also recorded impressive growth, but exports are seriously impeded by non-tariff barriers.
The government has also taken steps to launch a direct attack on poverty and to increase purchasing power in the hands of rural poor. The Integrated Rural Development Programme is the major engine of change in the rural areas. Under this programme, any viable economic activity which is likely to raise the income level of the beneficiaries above the poverty line on a lasting basis, can be taken up for implementation. Between 1980-85, 17 million people were assisted under this programme. There are other employment-oriented programmes to fight rural poverty like National Rural Employment Programme and Rural Landless Employment Guarantee Programme. Similarly, there are special programmes to counter abject poverty caused by adverse climatic conditions and degeneration of systems. They include the drought-prone area programme and the desert development programme.
While our paramount national objective was to be self-sufficient and do away with the need to import foodgrains, we also adopted tenancy reforms which gave land rights to millions, thus encouraging people to invest in, and profit from, their farm holdings. Out of 81 million holdings in India, over 72% holdings are less than two hectares in size. The government devised and implemented special programmes for small farmers geared to delivery of inputs to them and modernisation of their farming methods to make their occupation more viable. The government are also devising special programmes for providing alternative employment to, the landless.
Cooperatives have played a dynamic supportive role to agriculture in efficient delivery of inputs and marketing support and have thus contributed greatly to the success of the green revolution in India. Their contribution is envisaged to gain in sophistication and diversity in our future plans for agricultural growth and every effort will be made to provide to them the support to enable them to run on efficient lines consistent with cooperative principles.
The depletion of our forest cover is a matter of major concern to us. A number of schemes have also been framed to increase afforestation in order to preserve the environment, conserve the soil, arrest desertification and promote rural development.
Three-quarters of India lives in its villages and, therefore, alleviation of the lot of the poor, comprising small and marginal farmers, landless labourers and rural artisans is a matter of major concern to us. A number of schemes have also been framed to alleviate rural poverty and generate man-days of employment and also to strengthen social institutions and create infrastructural support in rural areas.
In spite of significant success in agricultural production and building up of adequate buffer stocks, access to food is one of our major developmental aims. A number of schemes for creation of employment avenues for the poor and the landless in rural areas are being implemented such as the nacional rural employment programme and rural landless employment guarantee programme, to improve food security for the poorer sections of the community at whom these schemes are targeted. A vast public distribution system network has been set up across the country to improve the availability of food everywhere.
May I briefly touch upon the role of women in agriculture and food production. While women have to share in the labour in the field, they have also to bear practically the whole brunt of the household responsibilities. In several agricultural operations such as transplanting of paddy, women play a predominant role. Their role in animal husbandry, cattle management and milk production is also very important. Our Government has taken up a number of programmes for the upgrading of skills of women through various extension activities. Women's cooperatives have also been established in the field of urban banking, dairy, consumer stores, agro-industry etc. The government is also considering a proposal of joint membership for husband and wife in cooperatives.
In so far as the question of reforms in the FAO is concerned, we are of the view that the objectives, priorities and strategies of the FAO are based upon the international consensus which has emerged from the decision of the governing bodies of the FAO and important international conferences having a bearing on the mandate of the FAO. Therefore, any changes in the mandate of the FAO should evolve on the basis of international consensus after careful debate and analysis and keeping in view the quality and extent of change in sister organizations in the UN system. FAO has proved itself to be broadly an efficient as well as a flexible and vibrant organization open to change. If further changes are considered necessary without violating the Basic Texts, these would need to be debated and changes effected on the basis of a consensus on the specific areas needing change. Agreement on the mechanism for studying and effecting such changes is equally important. The present cash flow crunch being experienced by the FAO which was arisen out of factors external to the FAO and beyond its control should not provide the main basis and the justification for the demands for reform.
Suggestions have also been made to provide for a core budget and a supplementary budget. We understand the reasons underlying these suggestions but have serious doubts about the pragmatism and constitutionality of the suggested procedures.
The capacity to meet the challenge in food and agriculture will have a fundamental bearing on the quality of life of millions in the developing world. We, in India, have developed some infrastructure and expertise while meeting these challenges and shall be very happy to share whatever we have with our international brethren. In these exchanges, in the global context, FAO has and will continue to play a very important role. I hope and pray for success in its endeavours.
Adolfo DIAZ SUAREZ (Cuba): Señor Presidente, Señor Director General, Señores y Señoras Delegados e invitados. Quisiera, en primer lugar, felicitarlo a usted, señor Presidente, por su elección para dirigir nuestros debates. Mi delegación considera que, tanto usted como los vicepresidentes y demás miembros de la mesa, serán un pilar fundamental para lograr el éxito de esta Conferencia.
Asimismo, en nombre del Gobierno de la República de Cuba, felicitamos al señor Edouard Saouma por su reelección para continuar dirigiendo esta importante Organización del sistema de las Naciones Unidas.
Estamos seguros de que este próximo mandato del señor Saouma estará caracterizado por el dinamismo y la capacidad a que nos tiene acostumbrados.
Nos reunimos nuevamente, convocados por la FAO en este 24 período de sesiones de su Conferencia General, con la esperanza de que los resultados de la misma sean favorables a la solución de los acuciantes problemas por los que atraviesan miles de millones de personas en el mundo, especialmente en los países subdesarrollados.
En períodos de sesiones anteriores se ha descrito el dramático panorama que caracteriza a esta parte del mundo y las sombrías perspectivas a que se enfrenta la humanidad en el caso de que persistan las actuales condiciones que generan esta situación.
La delegación de Cuba considera que, si los problemas que debatimos hoy no encuentran una solución urgente, si continúan ahondándose las diferencias entre países desarrollados y subdesarrollados, si se persiste en políticas torpes que abren más esa distancia, se planteará entonces un enfrentamiento de las sociedades hambrientas y los que medran a su costa.
En ese caso, Sr. Presidente, lo que se reclama hoy en el debate de conferencias internacionales será exigido, como cuestión de vida o muerte, por los millones de personas que rehusan padecer de hambre.
En el caso de nuestra región de América Latina y el Caribe, en nuestros países se enfrenta un período de dificultades sin precedentes, debido a la persistencia de una profunda crisis económica de carácter estructural, que tiene su origen fundamentalmente en factores externos, haciendo evidente la vulnerabilidad y dependencia de nuestros países en sus relaciones comerciales y financieras internacionales. En ninguna otra etapa de su historia han experimentado las economías latinoamericanas mayores desajustes y las perspectivas que se nos presentan son desalentadoras.
La disminución del ritmo de crecimiento, el deterioro del ingreso y el incremento del desempleo y la inflación son elementos críticos que sólo podrán ser superados con enormes y deliberados esfuerzos a lo largo de los próximos años. El deterioro de las relaciones económicas externas de América Latina y el Caribe, y particularmente la problemática del endeudamiento externo, condicionarán de manera determinante las perspectivas de recuperación y desarrollo de la región y acentúan su vulnerabilidad económica.
En tal sentido, el Gobierno de Cuba reitera la decisión de nuestro país de hacer frente a la crisis actual en forma conjunta y solidaria y empeñamos nuestra voluntad para movilizar esfuerzos encaminados a poner en práctica los compromisos y acciones de cooperación necesarios para afianzar la seguridad e integración económica regional.
La deuda externa se ha convertido en uno de los más graves obstáculos al desarrollo regional. El alto costo de su servicio y la pérdida de acceso a los mercados internacionales de capital han transformado a nuestra región en exportadora neta de recursos financieros. Esta es una situación insostenible, pues, de mantenerse, prevalecerán las condiciones recesivas y continuarán precarias las posibilidades de recuperación de nuestras economías.
Podemos afirmar que son innegables los esfuerzos que han hecho los países de la región para hacer frente a sus dificultades económicas. Se han registrado avances importantes en el plano de la con-certación política y la coordinación latinoamericana en relación con el endeudamiento externo, pero no se vislumbran aún soluciones duraderas y satisfactorias en este campo.
Por tal motivo, reiteramos la necesidad de que los gobiernos de los países acreedores, los organismos financieros multilaterales y la banca privada internacional asuman totalmente la responsabilidad que les corresponde. Aunque algunos pocos países desarrollados han dado pequeños pasos positivos, la deuda externa ha dejado de ser un asunto referido exclusivamente al pago de su servicio y se expresa como un problema eminentemente político y de asignación de recursos para el desarrollo.
Pero, Sr. Presidente, la situación de América Latina y el Caribe no es única; sabemos que se trata de una situación generalizada en todos los países subdesarrollados donde la grave situación alimentaria es uno de los males fundamentales.
Nos corresponde a nosotros, representantes de estados soberanos, declarar, y así solicitamos a esta Conferencia que lo haga, que los problemas de la alimentación son parte íntegramente indisoluble de todos los problemas que afectan económicamente a los países subdesarrollados.
Es evidente que los problemas alimentarios son un resultado de la crítica situación económica por la que atraviesan numerosos países del tercer mundo.
Nuestros países son víctimas de la aplicación de medidas económicas coercitivas, como la aplicación del embargo, del bloqueo económico, de la congelación de fondos, la suspensión de préstamos y créditos y el entorpecimiento y el boicot a la obtención de financiamiento internacional con fines políticos, así como del uso de la fuerza en las relaciones internacionales y la intervención extranjera en los asuntos internos de nuestros Estados. En ese sentido, mi delegación reafirma el derecho soberano de nuestros pueblos a escoger, en el ejercicio efectivo de la democracia, su sistema económico, social y político en un ambiente exento de amenazas y agresiones externas.
En este contexto, la necesidad de aumentar la producción de alimentos en todas las regiones en desarrollo y de lograr la seguridad alimentaria son realmente imperativas económicas y sociales de Primerísimo orden y seguirán siéndolo al menos mientras vivamos todos los que estamos presentes hoy aquí .
A pesar de los importantes incrementos registrados en la producción alimentaria en algunas regiones yn evocadas en los foros internnciorínles, continúa la miseria en medio de la abundancia.
Por otra parte, los gastos para la guerra, según estudios del tema, ascienden a cifras inimaginables; es comparable con la deuda externa acumulada de todos los países subdesarrollados. El uso de una parte sustancial de lo que se derrocha en armamentos, aplicado al desarrollo, surtiría un efecto altamente positivo en las economías de todos los Estados, reduciría las tensiones y abriría las perspectivas de un entendimiento racional sobre nuevas bases.
El traslado de una parte de los recursos destinados a armamentos para la ejecución de programas de desarrollo, pudiera aliviar en algo la difícil situación financiera de organizaciones internacionales tan importantes como la propia FAO, en la cual tenemos que enfrentarnos al análisis y aprobación de un presupuesto que no puede abarcar todas las obligaciones de la Organización. Sabemos que su incremento, con relación al bienio 1986/87, es simbólico. Sin embargo, teniendo en cuenta el interés de todos los países miembros de que el mismo sea aprobado por consenso, la delegación de Cuba apoya este nivel de presupuesto, aceptando, como es lógico, el Programa de Labores que con el pueda ejecutarse.
En realidad, Sr. Presidente, mi delegación considera que, en medio de la caótica situación de la economía mundial y de la situación alimentaria en particular, es encomiable la labor desplegada por la FAO para tratar de aliviar a los miles de millones de personas que sufren de hambre y malnutrición en el mundo.
A pesar de los escasos recursos presupuestarios con que ha contado la Organización, podemos afirmar que, gracias a una excelente gestión administrativa donde se incluye la debida priorización de las tareas, ha dado magníficos resultados. La labor desplegada para aliviar la hambruna del continente africano, la ejecución de programas eficaces como el Plan de Acción forestal de los trópicos, el Programa de Cooperación Técnica, los esfuerzos por cumplimentar el Programa de Acción de la Conferencia Mundial de Ordenación y Desarrollo Pesquero, son una buena muestra de ello.
Sr. Presidente, en medio de todo este arco iris de situaciones y problemas, así como de extensos documentos editados para esta Conferencia, se nos presentan también ideas de modificaciones, rees- tructuraciones, en fin, nuevas modalidades en el desarrollo de las actividades de la FAO. Son aspectos sumamente delicados e importantes que la delegación de Cuba no puede soslayar.
La FAO cuenta con unos textos fundamentales bien definidos. Cuenta con este máximo órgano: la Conferencia General; tiene el Consejo donde están representadas todas las regiones geográficas, que si bien no es equitativa la representatividad, es portavoz de los intereses de cada región. Funcionan los Comités permanentes y los Comités Técnicos que rinden informes al Consejo y, por su conducto, a la Conferencia.
En fin, ya cuenta la Organización con suficientes instancias, donde también se incluyen las Conferencias Regionales, por lo que nos parece innecesario crear nuevos mecanismos ni grupos de alto o bajo nivel que puedan definir los destinos de la Organización y mucho menos regir sus actividades.
Sin embargo, Sr. Presidente, mi país acoge con agrado la idea de mejorar el trabajo que todos realizamos en el seno de la FAO. Procedemos de un país donde la dialéctica, como esencia de la filosofía marxista, juega un papel decisivo. Por tal motivo, no podemos negarnos a que se realicen cambios en la Organización. Es más, la propia situación por la que atraviesa la FAO, nos obliga a no esperar más por esos cambios. Consideramos que ya es imperante para todos los países subdesarrollados que se efectúen los cambios que significa la aplicación del nuevo Orden Económico Internacional en el ámbito de la FAO, especialmente en lo que se refiere a las posibilidades que tiene la FAO de contribuir a que se operen las reformas convenientes en las relaciones económicas entre los Estados, tal y como fue adoptado por la Resolución 3/75 aprobada por la Conferencia.
Para nosotros, lo esencial de ese nuevo Orden sería poner a uestros países en condiciones de alcan ar la independencia económica real y crear las condiciones ateriales y espirituales para llevar el ivel de vida de la población a la altura de las conquistas ontemporáneas de la Ciencia y aTécnica.
En tal sentido, reafirmamos que el Programa de Labores y el presupuesto de la Organización debe encaminarse a la ejecución de programas que apoyen el incremento de la producción alimentaria y agrícola y la mejora de la nutrición, la garantía de la seguridad alimentaria, las actividades que desde hace tiempo despliega en la esfera de los problemas y políticas de productos básicos, sus esfuerzos para promover reformas estructurales en la agricultura y la estrategia ya aprobada por los gobiernos para el reajuste agrícola internacional.
Para terminar, Sr. Presidente, quisiera expresarle en nombre de mi gobierno, que el reconocimiento de las dificultades a que nos enfrentamos, no debilitará jamás nuestro arraigado y profundo optimismo. Los problemas podrán ser enormes; pero mayor es aún nuestra decisión de buscarles y hallarles solución. Si todos nos unimos, si todos somos capaces de promover el urgente esfuerzo de colaboración internacional a que aspiramos, estamos seguros de que lograremos vencer cualquier obstáculo y seguir adelante.
Laurits TøNAES (Denmark): Mr Chairman, May I congratulate you warmly with your election as Chairman of this Conference, which may turn out to be of historic significance for FAO, because important proposals are under discussion.
I also want to congratulate the Director-General, Mr Edouard Saouma, on his re-election for the? next period. We sincerely hope for a good cooperation in this great and important task.
The following main points are included in my speech:
Denmark supports this Organization, but it needs better tuning. Wo, the Membership are responsible for FAO's internal policies. This is a great responsibility. Never before has there been a greater need for policy advice to government and authorities. This is valid for all the professional activities of FAO. Denmark wants a shift of emphasis from traditional technical assistance to policy advice, based on profound analysis and statistics and combined with technical assistance of an innovative and experimental character. For this purpose the establishment of a high-level group is necessary for elaboration of proposals aiming at a thorough reform of FAO.
As policy makers being responsible for FAO, it is our task to agree on policy guidelines for our Organization.
The world scenario is dominated by paradoxes. Some member countries must try to increase their productive capacity with due respect to local traditions and values. Others aim at curbing their production, without removing incentives to continue innovation in forestry, fisheries and agriculture.
FAO is unique in combining solid technical skills and profound knowledge of the agriculture and food issues in all Member States. Therefore, in this world of paradoxes it is our responsibility to aim at the optimal use of FAO's capacity.
In my view, optimal use of FAO means shift of emphasis from traditional technical assistance to policy advice with sufficient authority.
There is a need for a reform of FAO, and I believe that there is now a broad consensus in the membership of the need for such a reform.
The next step for Member States is to better advise FAO in priority setting in the new context with the main emphasis on policy advice.
A real dialogue on priority setting between membership and the Secretariat is a necessary step, if a real consensus is to be achieved on FAO's programme work.
Before turning to priority setting I wish to stress the importance of improved cooperation with other parts of the UN system.
Let me take FAO country representation as an example. The concept is good, in particular if FAO country representatives enjoy a true delegation of authority. But the main purpose of FAO representatives should be to promote the service of the entire international system to the benefit of recipient countries. It should not isolate relations between FAO and the host country from the rest of the international setting. Offices and general service could be shared with other UN organizations, as pointed out in the contribution from developing countries to document 87/30.
Turning now to priority setting, I must once more point to the basic issue concerning the indicated transfer of resources without due care for cost-effectiveness. We support the wishes of developing countries to aim at more sophisticated forms of cooperation between FAO and national and regional bodies. This implies more emphasis on policy advice.
In its relations with its partners, FAO should be more open to new ideas, be active in motivations of others and effective in the execution of its own programmes.
The impact of production patterns on environment is an area where we believe that FAO should accept more influence from the outside. in this context I should point to the need for integration of agriculture and forestry in an environmentally more sustainable process. More attention should be given to the double role of forestry in production and in environment protection. Under this heading I could also mention careful water and soil management as well as elaboration of control programme s concerning pesticides and fertilizers.
Environmental aspects should be fully reflected in the individual programmes and in the working methods of FAO, not in new activities. We have noted with satisfaction that "environmental impact assessment" has already been introduced in the programme and planning procedures of several FAO projects.
At the Conference held eight years ago on Agricultural Reform and Rural Development FAO formulated a set of valuable ideas. However, the follow-up seems to have been slow and even somewhat frustrating. Maybe FAO has not paid enough attention to the potential of cooperation with other UN Agencies in this area, for instance by use of joint activities.
Even further, FAO may not have duly recognized, that in the important but also very controversial area of agricultural reforms, member states have a special need for appropriate policy guidelines and advice.
As to the core activities of FAO itself, I am convinced that FAO possesses the scientific skill and the technological capacity to conceive as well as to implement ideas in the areas of agriculture, fisheries and forestry.
We appreciate the new emphasis put in the Programme of Work on innovation. In this context, it is important to stress that the task of FAO is not only to update its knowledge of bio-technology, computerization and sophisticated controls on contamination. It is more important to bridge the technological gaps between high-tech countries and the rest of the world.
It is an important task for the international community to introduce and enhance a spirit of change and an open attitude towards introduction and implementation of new techniques, in harmony with local traditions and values.
I have now come to a central issue: Nobody else but the national governments and authorities can assure that a balanced growth of all sectors relating to food production is achieved.
Only if FAO is able steadily to respond to the requests for policy advice from its members, justification- for its existence can be found. I strongly believe that, showing willingness to engage in a continued reform of its organization, FAO is fully able to cope with this basic requirement.
Servicing of the Membership will be underlined if technical assistance is innovating and experimenting. Systematic evaluation of the impact on and coherence with other development efforts should be taken for granted.
I have devoted a substantial part of my speech to some main guidelines for priority setting. I think FAO deserves this, when we are all calling for a sharper priority setting of the organization.
When it comes to the financial issues, I can be brief.
Denmark does not within the UN system strictly adhere to the zero growth principle. What matters to us is the content of the programme. Regrettably, FAO is in a financial crisis, due to arrears in contributions. This is not conductive to a good atmosphere for a reform of the Organization.
In other words, I must appeal to those countries in arrears that they do not push further the financial crisis of FAO.
Denmark belongs to the increasing number of countries, that consider a thorough reform of FAO to be indispensable and urgent. The aim of our meetings should be to increase our consciousness of each other's problems and of the impact of our own policies on other countries. Only then can we adopt policy guide-lines with sufficient authority in order to support implementation of policies in all member countries.
The world is changing, so are the needs of FAO's Members, and in particular those of developing countries. After some years of few and modest adaptations, it is evident, that we must make our organization, the FAO, better able to cope with those changes. We must give it a competitive. edge.
In such a situation, it is normal to select outstanding personalities to initiate, monitor and submit drafting of reform proposals, and to hire consultants for your assistance. This can be achieved in several ways. We and several other delegations are proposing the establishment of a High Level Group to carry out this task. The Secretariat should of course be fully integrated in this process.
I strongly urge the Conference to decide on the establishment of a High Level Group, and in order to facilitate thè decision process, the Nordic countries have jointly submitted a draft resolution on the terms of reference for such a group as a basis for discussion.
Finally, Mr President, let me emphasize, that our engagement in the reform process is the best proof of our involvment in the activities of FAO so that it can also in the future provide optimal service to Membership and in particular to the developing member countries.
Tribute to His Excellency Seyni KOUNTCHE, President of Niger
Hommage à Son Excellence M. Seyni KOUNTCHE, Président du Niger
Homenaje al Excelentísimo Señor Seyni KOUNTCHE, Presidente de Níger
LE PRESIDENT: Avant de continuer nos débats, je dois passer la parole au Secrétariat pour une importante communication.
LE SECRETAIRE GENERAL: Je suis porteur d'une mauvaise nouvelle: une dépêche d'agence vient de nous apprendre le décès à Paris, aujourd'hui, de Son Excellence le Président Seyni KOUNTCHE du Niger.
LE PRESIDENT: Avant de continuer nos débats, je crois qu'il est de mon devoir de vous inviter à rendre hommage à ce grand fils d'Afrique, à ce digne fils d'Afrique qui a tant fait pour le développement de la production alimentaire et pour le bien-être des paysans de son pays et de l'Afrique en général; je vous propose d'observer maintenant une minute de silence, et aussi d'envoyer un message de condoléances au nom de notre Conférence.
One minute of silence
Une minute de silence
Un minuto de silencio
SECRETAIRE GENERAL: voici le texte du télégramme adressé à Son Excellence le Ministre des affaires étrangères du Niger: "C'est avec profonde émotion que j'ai appris le décès de Son Excellence le général de division Seyni Kountché, Président du Conseil militaire suprême, Chef de l'Etat. STOP. Je prie Votre Excellence de bien vouloir transmettre à votre Gouvernement, au nom de la vingt-quatrième session de la Conférence de l'Organisation des Nations Unies pour l'alimentation et l'agriculture et en mon nom personnel, nos condoléances les plus sincères. STOP. Haute considération. Signé: FAISL ABDEL-RAZIK AL KHALID, Président de la vingt-quatrième session de la Conférence".
Sahadou BAWA (Niger): Je voudrais présenter à la Conférence, au nom de ma délégation, les sincères remerciements du Gouvernement et du peuple nigérien pour la marque de sympathie dont il a fait preuve en observant une minute de silence à la mémoire de Son Excellence le Général de division Seyni Kountché, Président du Conseil militaire suprême, chef de l'Etat du Niger, décédé le mardi 10 novembre 1987 à Paris. Je voudrais aussi remercier le Président de la Conférence pour son télégramme de condoléances qu'il a bien voulu adresser à mon Gouvernement. J'aimerais aussi informer la Conférence qu'un registre de condoléances sera ouvert à l'Ambassade du Niger, Via Antonio Bninmonti,10, du lundi 16 nu mardi 17 novembre 1987 de 9 heures à 16 heures.
GENERAL DISCUSSION (continued)
DEBAT GENERAL (suite)
DEBATE GENERAL (continuación)
LE PRESIDENT: Nous reprenons nos travaux. J'ai une autre communication: le Ministre du développement rural du Sénégal ayant dû quitter Rome, le texte de sa déclaration dans le cadre du débat général sera, si vous n'y voyez pas d'inconvénient-, inséré dans le procès-verbal de la séance de cet après-midi. S'il n'y a pas d'objection, la proposition est approuvée.
Colin J. MOYLE (New Zealand): This year's Conference is being held at a time of great change. Global agriculture has made tremendous strides in its capability to feed the world's population but is beset by policies which are preventing supply and demand to balance or allowing realisation of the aspirations of those countries who can produce food competitively. The situation is now shared both by developed countries who live by exporting food and those who have joined them through development of their agriculture.
What I would like to do this afternoon, Mr. Chairman, is to share with the Conference the story of New Zealand. I do this not because I want to make any special case for our country, but because it illustrates the situation which is being faced by an increasing number of nations: those whose ' economies and resources are agricultural and who have the capability to supply world markets with high quality and competitively priced products. Sadly the opportunities are being denied them by doctrines of self-sufficiency, which have long ceased to be relevant. The mechanisms of protection and market management by the bureaucracies and their costs are well known to everyone here today and I don't need to spell them out.
New Zealand is a small country with a population of 3.5 million people. Its land is mountainous and it has been developed from forest, to pasture over the last 150 years. Its success in animal husbandry and horticulture has been based on a high investment in developing agricultural technology and well-educated farmers. In spite of large distances from markets it can produce, transport and market its dairy meat and horticultural products successfully in competition with the world. That is, of course, if it can compete on reasonably level terms. Like many of the developing countries, New Zealand's agriculture is its export industry. We do not have an industrial base and, if you
like, dairy products and meat are to New Zealand what television sets and motor vehicles are to other countries. While New Zealand is small, it is a very significant world trader in dairy products, sheepmeats and horticultural products, most notably kiwifruit.
Following the Second World War, New Zealand had its share of protectionist policies, but in a reverse way to most countries. While they protected their agriculture, we protected our manufacturing industries. This protection did nothing to improve their efficiency and acted as a tax on our farmers who had to purchase their inputs at inflated prices. During the seventies when many developed countries began exporting their surplus food products at highly subsidised prices, the Government of New Zealand at that time attempted to compensate New Zealand farmers, through subsidies, for the costs to them of protecting the manufacturing industries. But to be blunt, these policies failed. They were too costly and they distorted production away from the realities of the international market place in which we operate.
In 1984 my Government decided to dismantle the whole system of intervention as quickly as possible and to endure the pain of reshaping the economy to one in which the market would play a major role in allocating resources. The financial sector was deregulated, import licensing phased out quickly, tariffs are reducing to a common low level and subsidies were virtually eliminated over a three-year period. Many would say such drastic medicine is not politically possible, but I can assure you this is not so, as the recent election returning the Government with an increased majority has demonstrated. Our people recognised that change had to come and were prepared to face the fire when they knew that every sector would be treated equally and there would be no exceptions. It is also true that a new dynamic and enterprising economy is emerging very quickly in New Zealand.
Our farmers are having a tough time. In some cases net incomes halved and land values also but that has happened also in the more protected economies. They are adjusting quickly but I am bound to say our agriculture industries will need real progress to be made in the current GATT round, as well as individual courage and more efficient production and marketing
What are the lessons from all this? First, people will accept change to a more rational economy if it is explained to them and there are no exceptions to the rule. But it requires a great deal of political courage. Secondly, investment will be made, and much more efficiently, when investors operate in a predictable environment and they trust Government not to change the rules. Thirdly, a great deal of attention needs to be given to putting in place a safety net for those who are at risk during the adjustment period. We have been at great pains to ensure that our social policies are based on need and that income policies are not confused with the market. If disadvantaged farming families need income support it is provided directly and not through subsidising product prices.
Mr Chairman, I believe our experience over the last few years has demonstrated that the impossible is indeed possible and the benefits far exceed the costs. People will accept change and if it is to succeed it must take place with a momentum which will carry it through. If the pace is too slow or too gradual the countervailing forces will defeat it.
In many ways the New Zealand experience represents a microcosm of the world at large. Today, I believe, there are leaders and people in almost every country who recognize that we cannot continue the policies which have led us to the present crisis in agricultural trade. We share these views and have entered into a commitment with our people to put our own house in order first. FAO, along with the other international Fora like the GATT, have the opportunity to progress quickly to lasting solutions. I want to thank you, Mr Chairman, for the opportunity to address this Conference, a conference which I hope will be a milestone in progress towards a better and fairer deal for all the world's farmers, as well as security and certainty in quantity, quality and variety for the world's consumers. We are convinced that if the doctrine of comparative advantage is allowed to flourish consumers and producers will both benefit and the gulf between the developed and developing world will at last begin to close.
Lincoln MYERS (Trinidad and Tobago): I wish, in the first instance, to convey on my own behalf, and on behalf of the Government and people of Trinidad and Tobago, warmest congratulations to Dr Saouma on his re-election to the post of Director-General of the FAO. We trust that the Almighty will give him health and strength, and guide him in this most difficult task, as Head of this Organization, over the next six years.
This Twenty-Fourth Session of the Conference is meeting at a time of multiple crises. In the worldwide agricultural economy, fundamental changes are taking place in the distribution of agricultural output, incomes and productivity. There is doubt and uncertainty about the nature, scope and future direction of multilateralism; in this regard, the very role and functions of this Organization, FAO, are called into question. Can we ensure continuation of its relevance, its effectiveness in the pursuit of the elimination of poverty and hunger in the world through the most efficient exploitation of global human, agricultural and other material resources?
More recently, a further crisis has manifested itself in the global economy; the financial crisis of Wall Street which has sent spasms through London, Tokyo and Hong Kong, is already having a negative effect on the resources of FAO via fluctuating exchange rates. There is, however, the broader issue of the effect on the level of investment which will be forthcoming to the agricultural sector.
Agriculture, one of mankind's oldest activities, has provided the basis for the rise of civilization. Its products and the way in which these are produced, are determined by social and economic forces as well as by technical parameters. Within countries, land tenure, social structure and entrepreneurial motivations probably influence the level of agricultural output as much as improved techniques and the availability of finance.
World food production, both in absolute and per caput terms, has increased steadily in recent decades, albeit with wide discrepancies in achievements between the various regions of the world. Regretfully, however, this happy process of growth appears to be faltering; he situation is not he result of limits imposed by technical factors or by acts of God, but by an himself.
It is necessary to guard against policy decisions at the national and international levels such as would diminish the availability of resources, both human and material, in the application of science and technology to food production and rural development. It is the responsibility of the significance and the actual implementation of a macro-economic policy environment, and the appropriate institutional framework, which is conductive to the achievement of a dynamic, diversified agricultural sector programmed for authentic development.
However, with the passage of time, we have all learnt the lessons of recent economic history, all of us, large and small nations, the powerful and the weak, that substantial and sustained benefits from expanded agricultural output require access to markets. Recent years have witnessed serious contortions and malfunctioning of market forces in trade flows between continents and economic-cum-regional groupings of nation states. They continue to proliferate and become even more complex and comprehensive.
Against this scenario, the less developed countries are faced with serious and complex policy issues for agricultural development; for example, pricing policy in major agricultural commodities. In many instances, if we are serious about achieving higher levels of domestic food production in the developing world, we must accept that, in some cases, food prices may have to rise and that some degree of protection for a finite period of time is necessary against highly subsidized food imports from the developed countries. Indeed, if we in the developing countries are not prepared to accept this, we may as well abandon agriculture entirely and import ail our food and raw materials. Of course, the cost of living will in all probability be somewhat higher than it would be without protection. On the other hand, there will be the benefits in an improvement in the balance of payments, a stronger and more diversified economy and a higher level of productive employment.
However, our ability, as individual developing countries or regional trade and production groupings of such countries (e.g. CARICOM, Central American Common Market; Asociación Latinoamericana de Integración) to accomplish all or part of this, is entirely dependent on access to the international market place.
Unfortunately, access to this market place is becoming daily more and more restricted for the products of the developing world, be they primary commodities, intermediate goods or finished manufactures.
Protectionism in the developed countries has been allied to a stagnant (and even declining) demand for raw materials because of over-production or changes in the production function leading to declining levels of raw material use per unit of output. These two forces have given rise to a secular fall in the real prices of agricultural commodities which may be expected to continue into the foreseeable future, barring wars, natural disasters or other such exigencies. The resultant worsening in our terms of trade with the developed world has brought many of us into structural disequilibrium in our balance of payments, drastically reduced our ability to repay past debts, and hence our creditworthiness and ability to contract new debts, and sent our national economies into recession with all the attendant negative social economic and political consequences. The downward spiral is self-reinforcing inasmuch as the productive base of most of our economies is linked with the developed world for food, spare parts and capital equipment. As these run down and remain without replacement, the productive and hence the earning capacity of our economies is progressively reduced.
Recent events have shown that failure to orchestrate supportive policies for national economic development, even among the most powerful of nations, such as the seven which recently met at the Venice Summit, can lead to serious consequences. We hear of the October crash, threat of a repeat of the 1930s! There is an inter-dependence which cannot be ignored.
Mr Chairman, as we see it, the developed countries, in the interest of their as well as our economic well-being, must guard against underestimating the significance of promoting and supporting development within the developing countries.
The world is essentially one economy: poverty, decline and depression in any of its constituent parts, reduce the growth of output and income in all its sectors, including the most advanced. Within the global economy, it would not be too misleading to say that the developing world constitutes the primary sector. the deterioration over time in the terms of exchange between this sector and the global manufacturing and service sectors curtails global demand for manufactures and services and hence global output and incomes. Action to reverse these trends is, therefore, dictated by elementary self-interest on the part of the developed world.
I say, therefore, that this is the real issue before us at this Conference and in any other forum in which international agricultural policy is debated in the foreseeable future: international agricultural adjustment. How are we to so order things as to secure an orderly and continuous increase in global agricultural output and incomes without indulging in beggar-thy-neighbour policies, with a minimum of social upheaval and distress in either the developed or developing world?
It is in this context that I wish to remind this audience, indeed the world, as I recently did in my closing remarks at the Ottawa meeting of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation in Agriculture, that the major problems which affect the level of utility of global physical resources are for the attention of all of us - indeed, the responsibility of all of us.
Desertification in Africa, dying forests in Germany, deforestation in the Amazon or in Asia, drying up of the headwaters of the Nile, drought in Africa! Which corner of the globe, Mr Chairman, which nation state, can sit smugly with the feeling that the negative effects of such resource degradation will not reach them, will not affect their own well being at some time?
Mr Chairman, I can tell you that the answer is None! We must all eke out a living on the same planet, in the same global village; at least, for the foreseeable future! We, ail of us gathered here, have a shared responsibility for mankind's common heritage.
Mr Chairman, in the last few days, perhaps months, those of us connected with this Organization have witnessed a kind of tension as we inched towards November 9th. However, as so many speakers said yesterday, democracy prevailed. But, Mr Chairman, there is a force even more powerful in world affairs than the vote. It is the spirit of men of vision.
We need only to recall the now famous Bandung Conference when true men of vision from so many continents came together. I refer, of course, to Nehru, Nkrumah, Mao-tse-tung, and others. They, no doubt, were inspired by even earlier men of vision such as Bolivar and Marti. Whatever these men's shorcomings, they sought to give a voice to the weak, downtrodden, poor and voiceless of the world whom some had come to regard as the wretched of the earth. Let us strive in this Organization to ensure that the voice of the majority is never lost.
Mr Chairman, this world is never devoid of great minds. My appeal, therefore, is to all Heads of Delegations, and, through them, to their sovereign states, to ensure that this Twenty-fourth Conference signals a new upward thrust in the affairs of FAO. To maintain divisivêness, and to fail to capture the ealth of ideas which must evolve from the many fertile minds which will be at work in the Plenary and in the Commissions over the next few days will only leave us - all of us -in a position which future generations will find difficult to forgive.
In this regard, I also wish to emphasize that the meeting of minds to which I refer must be in the context of mutual respect. Bigness and/or comparative global wealth today - and I emphasize today, because we can never be certain for all time - must not suggest nor lead to a pattern of behaviour such as gives the impression that soundness of ideas is the enshrined preserve of the few, or, worse yet, that it is significantly correlated with the level of contributions to aid programmes or the financial upkeep of international organizations.
My own country, Trinidad and Tobago, is a small twin-island state. We belong to the Caribbean family of small island nations. We, therefore, see no reason why the size of small states, given their dimensions or comparative poverty, is to be used as an indicator of the quality of our contribution of ideas in the global family of nations. In fact, we exemplify real advantages. We are satellites of no global power; we have no hidden agenda. Our ability, therefore, to mediate when complexities arise has no equal and that, Mr Chairman, is a tremendous resource which we will always endeavour to use wisely.
It seems to me that in this present situation of stalemate and arrested development in the global agricultural economy to which I referred at the beginning of my address we must see the proposals for review and reform of the Organization in their true perspective. We are in the presence of a conflict in philosophies: unilateralism versus multilateralism. But the global economy is inextricably interwined and interdependent. We can no longer remain, if ever we could, unaffected by one another's decisions. There can be nothing to be gained - and there is everything to be lost - by moving from a situation in which the Organization's programme, budget and policies are decided by consensus of the members to one in which, as in George Orwell's "Animal Farm", some are more equal than others - a situation which I daresay exists in other branches of the UN system.
We must be mindful of the principles embodied in Resolution 24 of the Founding Fathers of FAO to which the distinguished Minister of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries of Barbados drew our attention: "the principle of mutual responsibility and co-ordinated action... and the reduction of barriers of every kind to international trade and the elimination of all forms of discriminatory restrictions as effectively and as rapidly as possible".
Unless we have agreement on this principle and co-ordinated action towards its achievement, we shall fail to start the agricultural economies of the developing world on the path towards agricultural diversification and food security. That is to say, the movement away from the present pattern of world production and trade relations in which the centre absorbs and transforms, at the same time adding value to, agricultural raw materials produced in the periphery which it re-exports to the periphery in the form of manufactured goods. These come together with food, which the structure of production and existing factor costs in the periphery as well as massive production subsidies in the centre, causes to be cheaper than domestic food production in most parts of the developing world. I submit most strongly, Mr Chairman, that in the present international economic order, a certain degree of agricultural tariff protection is essential if developing countries are to be enabled to become more self-reliant and increase our ability to feed ourselves from our own resources. The process of trade liberalization will therefore require the application of a different calender in the North than in the South as well as as the retention of a differential in favour ot the South for a certain period of time.
A major item on the agenda for this Conference relates to reform, the relevance of a high level group of experts. The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is not convinced, as some Member Nations seem to be determined, that there is an urgency for review and reform of FAO. In fact, all the available evidence would seem to suggest that it may well be one of the most efficiently managed of the UN Organizations.
We are very much concerned with suggestions relating to possible changes in the goals and priorities, the basic strategy for development of FAO. Mr Chairman, we plead for complete resistance to any changes in the Organization which will leave agricultural and rural development subject to a higher degree of bilateral sanction! We advocate continuation of an increasing focus on field activity and, therefore, are fully supportive of the Technical Cooperation Programme, especially its flexibility in response capability.
At the same time, however, my Delegation recognizes that any organization, especially after many decades of existence, ought to be able to benefit from properly structured evaluation and review. It is important, however, to have real balance in the selection of any evaluation team - if we agree to a review! This is, however, not a matter for either the developed or the developing countries by themselves. The exercise must be thorough, and there must be full understanding and cooperation by all the participants.
Above all, the work of FAO, as mandated by the Conference and the Council, must go on uninterrupted. We have given Dr Saouma a new mandate, and he must be allowed to act, at least for the next two years.
Mr Chairman, the matter of reform may, or may not, be necessary. We as Member Nations, must not be afraid of change. If, therefore, an evaluation and review exercise, executed to our satisfaction, calls for reform, my government will support such reform measures, only as they do not alter the fundamental objectives of the Founding fathers of FAO; and such as would ensure greater progress in agricultural and rural development, more so as it applies to the Third World.
The Trinidad and Tobago delegation will therefore support a review of "certain aspects of FAO's goals and proposals", including the need for reform, if necessary, in the programme budget process if it is carried out in the context of the need for initiating and managing the orderly process of international agricultural adjustment which I have described.
The need now is for a novel and imaginative approach to these burning issues of global production and trade in the agricultural sector. This will no doubt require changes in the institutional framework for policy formulation, negotiation and implementation at the global level in the same way as many of us have realized it to be at our respective national levels.
I must say that we must eschew outdated ideas and notions that protectionism is better than free trade. Indeed, to adapt a well-known English political nostrum, I submit that while protectionism may be of benefit (nay, even considerable benefit to one country or group of countries) for some of the time, it is clearly bad for all countries not only some of the time, but indeed all of the time. For, in the medium and long term it condemns ail of us on this planet to a lower level of output and incomes than could otherwise be achieved. In these turbulent times when torrential difficulties are cascading upon the Organization, it is my earnest hope that we may all collectively seize the opportunity so as to act for the greatest good for the greatest number. Let us seize the opportunity to undertake action which will assist in bringing into being a world in which peace, justice and prosperity reign. I thank you very much.
Abbas Ali ZALI (Iran, Islamic Republic of): In the name of God, the beneficent, the merciful, Mr Vice Chairman, on behalf of myself and the delegation of the Islamic Republic of Iran, I would like to express my congratulations to you and the Chairman elected for the Conference. My deep desire is for the success of this conference to be of much more help and assistance to the oppressed and deprived nations of the world.
Here I would also like to seize the opportunity to extend my sincere congratulations for the reelection of Dr Edouard Saouma. I am fully convinced that under his genuine guidance and leadership the Organization would gain ever-increasing success and prosperity in its future programmes.
Throughout the history of mankind, provision of food as the most important necessity of life has always been faced with great difficulties and shortage of food has continuously threatened the vast majority of human communities. No doubt up to this date remarkable achievements have been gained to enhance the production of food commodities, but still much is left to proper extermination of hunger and its ominous effects.
As you may recall, in 1974, the Food Conference was held to investigate into the severe crises of food. The significance of food in the Third World countries was of prime priority in this Conference. During that period food prices were soaring and the stock of cereals that could be transmitted was at its lowest level. Millions of people were suffering from hunger and malnutrition. Unfavourable fluctuations in climate and continual growth of population had caused great fear and worry of confrontation with yet again the harsh problem of hunger and its threatening aftermath.
Fortunately, that critical situation has now been alleviated to some extent. But does this mean that the Third World should ignore the significance of the problem? Most of the countries reject this question emphatically, and as a result they consider both economic independence and provision of food as their prior objectives.
It is worth mentioning that in the developing countries consisting of two-thirds of the world population, the percentage of their production remains at less than 40%o while the developed countries either hinder the growth in productivity of food commodities in the developing countries, or destroy their surplus production just to support the stability of prices. Frankly speaking the life of the oppressed is under the manipulations of a handful of main food producers who do not render food commodities unless their colonial policies are being properly fulfilled.
On the other hand, exclusive trade of food commodities by only a few companies poses another problem to the needy countries since the developed countries and those multi-national companies affiliated to them, while having 70% of food trade and 96% of cereals trades under their control, in order to dominate the needy countries they would be enticed to utilize food as a political weapon and to us, this conception is to be condemned.
According to the data available, more than 60% of chemical fertilizers, 78% of agricultural, and 93% of harvesting machiney is under the employment of the developed countries, whereas the developing countries are obliged to produce the preliminary raw materials needed to boost the industry of the developed countries in order to facilitate the provision of foreign exchange required for purchasing their demands. As a consequence, following drastic changes in the surroundings, deterioration of natural resources, and diminution of soil fertility in their agricultural areas, their poverty and destitution are made worse ever-increasingly. The problem of inflation weakens also the purchasing potential of the Third World countries which themselves do not have the faculty for the production of agricultural machinery and inputs.
For the time being, considering all these points, it is natural that the capacity of production and economy of the Third World countries would be orientated towards manufacturing series of unnecessary goods, and their creativity to accomplish their indispensable needs if deviated. As a result the struggle of people who are suffering from hunger and malnutrition would lead to deepening their poverty and to boosting the prosperity of the developed countries.
Now we arc witnessing that under such conditions if a country determines to meet its demands by utilization of divinely gifted resources and to sever its dependence, it would vividly be invaded by some producing countries. The hostility and enmity posed to the Islamic Revolution and irrational presence of foreign vessels in the Persian Gulf express obvious examples of such aggression.
A remarkable statement says that:
" He who possesses water and land and still feels needy definitely be deprived of divine blessings. "
This is what we have exactly experienced throughout the years. By wide publicity the domineering countries tried to persuade us that Iran was not an agricultural country because of lack in potentials; as a consequence we are switched over to a consumptive country which by reality we could be a productive one. Now after our Revolution we proved this belief by demonstrating a boom in the volume of our agricultural products from 30. to 43m. tonnes during the course of 7 years.
It should also be mentioned that our population has an annual growth rate increased over 3.67%, which indicates an increase from 36m in 1979 to 50m. in 1986.
In-order to achieve success to surmount the problems we have scheduled our plan into two categories.
First, utilization of existing potentials. The comparison of our potential and actual possibilities reveals clearly that out of 51m ha arable lands, only 18m ha are under cultivation, both irrigated and rainfed. The same situation can be extended to our water resources, of which almost one half of our capacity is left unemployed. Our natural reserves in fisheries amount to more than 635 thousand tonnes annually out of which only 50 thousand tonnes were harvested in 1977 and although this figure is over 170 thousand tonnes these days, still 73% of all the potential remains untouched. Concerning the capacity of our pasture lands only 25% of all the capacity is grazed and utilization of the rest is to be contemplated. further.
Therefore, as you can pinpoint very clearly, there exists a great gap between what our potential and what our present and actual capacities are. This fact would support our main objectives toward reaching self-sufficiency in the medium run.
Secondly, preservation of food commodities and controlling the wastage. Following investigations being carried out on this topic we found that the amount of this wastage totals 30%, which would suffice the nutrition of 12 million people of our population.
Since it is more feasible to control the losses imposed in this regard, it is unwise if we do not concentrate part of our activities on rescuing this wastage. We have presented several projects for implementation hereof.
Briefly speaking, our country - Iran, with the extent of 1 648 000 Sq. Km. and consisting of 63 000 villages which provides occupation for 33% of job-holders and meets the principle nutritional needs
of 50m population, is definitely capable of achieving self-sufficiency in food necessities. This objective is to be fulfilled by the implementation of extensive and comprehensive programmes which have mainly focussed on the better utilization of water and land resources, the application of the results of research in different fields of agriculture, the imposition of the just principle of exploitation in concommitant with the employment of human and technical potentialities.
We have great confidence and faith in the directions and principles of the Holy Qoran which enhance our internal motivations and orientate us towards our main objectives, independence, self-reliance, and freedom.
The following are some verses from the divine laws narrated from the Holy Qoran which I hope can be regarded as a guideline for all believers.
19. And the earth - We have apread it forth and made in it firm mountains and caused to grow
in it of every suitable thing.
20. And We have made in it means of subsistence for you and for him for whom you are not the
suppliers.21. And there is not a thing but with Us are the treasures of it, and We do not send it down
but in a known measure.
The Rock (Hijr)
7. And when your Lord made it known: If you are grateful, I would certainly give to you more
and if you are ungrateful, My chastisement is truly severe.
(Ibrahim)
Taking into consideration all those points together with the following objectives, we have paid deep attention to present a ten-year plan for implementation towards self-sufficiency. First, agriculture is regarded as main axis to the country's programme for development. As a consequence efficient steps are taken towards the extension of legality and justice among the society out of which 43%„ are residents of villages and have always been deprived of the privileges of life in the past.
Secondly, the high value of each unit added in the section of agriculture require half the investment in comparison with other economic sectors.
In case of increase in per capita income, a boost in daily food consumption is, under present conditions, much higher than the growth in production.
Finally the conception of the sacredness of agriculture in Islam has once again been revived after decades of the imposition of misjudgement and contempt for this divine activity. Today throughout our remote villages we are witnessing revolutionary mottos in favour of holiness and the significance of agriculture and our Government is implementing proper activities concerning price policy, guaranteeing the purchase of surplus production and the insurance of agricultural products in order to support this oppressed section of society who have been under dominance for many years.
I would like to reiterate that in the preparation of our 10-year plan to promote our agricultural output we paid proper attention to the following points:
essential observation of soil and water preservation and controlling their wastage and destruction;
rational utilization and implementation of natural resources, both potential and actual',
enhancement of productivity per unit of acreage, employing proper methods of cultivation, the development of second cropping and using high yield cultivars;
improvement of efficency in production and better utilization of skill and ingenuity in the agricultural sector through the provision of added value to productions and inducement of banks in participation with agricultural enterprises;
providing sensible orientation to the programmes in order to create a balance of living between urban and rural areas; and finally,
deep appreciation of agricultural research and training and acknowledging these points as a safeguard to the success and prosperity of the proposed objectives.
Let me focus on this very important point that all these items of breakthrough have been achieved while we have been facing the tragic outcome of seven years of continual imposed war, in such conditions that several of our very rich and fertile provinces have been destroyed; food production factories have been bombarded; our natural resources have been threatened by destruction and blasting fires; waters of the Persian Gulf, which are the chief source of fish and which provide occupation for hundreds of thousands of people, have been exposed to heavy pollution; many villages which are the main producers of food commodities have been savagely invaded and as a result thousands of hectares of lands have been either devastated or unutilized. No doubt, to compensate for these losses much time and energy and enormous amounts of money are required.
I would like to express my deep appreciation for the valuable programmes being undertaken by FAO and UNDP in order to campaign against hunger and poverty. I would also like to acknowledge the close cooperation of these organizations with us. I sincerely plead for assistance and help through international organizations and those who have a conscience to encourage governments to pay much more attention to all these divinely gifted riches and condemn all sorts of misuse or the threats which are imposed upon these natural blessings. As God the Almighty states in the Holy Qoran:
And He it is who has made the sea subservient that you may eat fresh flesh from it and bring forth from it ornaments which you wear, and you see the ships cleaving through it, and that you might seek of His bounty and that you may give thanks.
The whole world now is witnessing the aggression to the Persian Gulf which has driven our nation to extremities. Owing to this military expedition the safeguard of fishing has been intimidated and during this year several ships belonging to the Islamic Republic of Iran and some other countries have been unmanly assaulted.
Now under these conditions we are talking about food production and food security. We therefore would heartily plead with the participants at this Conference and with the aware international conscience that they condemn the invasion of this marine region and state their disapproval and objection towards such plans which are being scheduled every now and again by domineering countries to fulfill their own benefits and put under pressure and restrict the productivity opportunities in countries such as the Islamic Republic of Iran, Nicaragua, Palestine, Lebanon, Southern Africa, and Latin America.
Fernando Faustino MUTERA (Angola)(langue originale portugais): Monsieur le Président, Monsieur le Directeur général, Messieurs les Ministres Illustres délégués, Mesdames, Messieurs: Permettez-moi avant tout Monsieur le Président de profiter de cette occasion pour vous féliciter de votre élection ainsi que de celle des autres membres du bureau. Nous sommes confiants qu'avec la collaboration de tous et sous votre orientation, notre assemblée générale parviendra à résoudre certains des problèmes les plus graves auxquels est confrontée l'Organisation, et permettra ainsi que l'aide qui nous est fournie soit de plus en plus efficace.
Je profite également de l'occasion qui nous est offerte pour adresser mes vives félicitations au Directeur général pour sa réélection et en même temps formuler des voeux de collaboration de mon pays et exprimer le 'souhait que l'aide fournie par la FAO à la République populaire d'Angola s'intensifie.
Monsieur le Président, Mesdames, Messieurs, malgré les attaques permanentes et successives que subit mon pays par la faute du régime de l'Afrique du Sud raciste, qui sème la mort parmi les populations pacifiques, détruisant de vastes zones frontalières, malgré les constantes actions destructrices menées quotidiennement par des groupuscules rebelles angolais dans les zones rurales, causant l'insécurité parmi les paisibles paysans, c'est avec grande satisfaction que, à cette tribune, je puis aujourd'hui affirmer notre situation agricole et alimentaire évolue de manière favorable depuis la dernière assemblée générale.
Les orientations adoptées lors du deuxième congrès du parti du travail, définissant la petite exploitation agricole familiale et son organisation en association de paysans, comme élément déterminant de l'augmentation de la production alimentaire, commencent à donner des résultats très encourageants.
Lors de la dernière campagne qui s'est terminée en août de cette année, les résultats de la récolte, notamment dos céréales, ont été quelque peu supérieurs à ceux qui avaient été obtenus les années précédentes, bénéficiant d'un appui direct de l'Etat, des semences, des instruments de travail et des engrais chimiques. Nous avons tenté de travailler durement, dans les régions où la tranquillité est garantie, pour créer une autosuffisance alimentaire de base en gérant des excédents permettant de minimiser les pénuries existant dans les zones urbaines et ainsi de diminuer les besoins d'importer.
Par ailleurs, ce principe d'appui préférentiel aux petits producteurs se fait sentir actuellement dans les zones environnantes des grands centres urbains. Il est certain que la pratique suivie est correcte, et nous permet, dans un bref délai, de surmonter la situation de pénurie dans laquelle nous nous trouvons. Cette situation, je le répète, es"t le résultat de la situation d'instabilité menée à l'extérieur et à l'intérieur du pays et qui limite les possibilités de liaison entre les centres producteurs et les centres de consommation, empêchant ainsi la fourniture de tous les moyens de production indispensables.
Il me semble également opportun de relever un aspect d'une importance capitale et qui peut contribuer de manière décisive à l'amélioration de la situation alimentaire de mon pays.
Dans certaines régions, l'amélioration significative de la sécurité par la fuite des groupusculosà la solde du régime de l'Afrique du Sud raciste, a comme résultat le retour dans les régionsd'origine des populations déplacées dans d'autres zones où installées aux environs des principauxcentres administratifs. Ces populations cherchent avec enthousiasme à reprendre la production et àgarantir, dans une première année, leur subsistance.
Avec ces possibilités, mon gouvernement a toujours appuyé ces populations et les cas échéants a recouru aux fonds d'urgence des Nations Unies pour que les moyens disponibles et limités soient complétés par des dons de la communauté internationale, notamment en ce qui concerne les outils de travail et les semences.
Les aspects que je viens de décrire, à savoir le développement des cultures de base par les paysans, l'accroissement de la production de produits vivriers dans les zones aux alentours des grandes villes et le retour des populations dans leurs régions d'origine, ne sont pas les seuls facteurs positifs à souligner. Cependant ce sont ceux que nous considérons comme fondamentaux dans le changement de la grave situation dans laquelle nous vivons.
Monsieur le Président, Mesdames, Messieurs, en ce qui concerne l'ordre du jour de notre assemblée, je voudrais me référer à certains aspects que je considère comme très importants.
En premier lieu, il est évident que nous nous préoccupons de la situation financière actuelle en ce qui concerne les liquidités dont dispose l'Organisation, déterminée par le non-paiement de contributions du principal bailleur de fonds, ainsi que par des retards de liquidation des arriérés de certains Etats Membres, et principalement par le retard avec lequel ces contributions sont versées.
En maintenant une telle situation, la liquidité et la solvabilité de l'Organisation courent de sérieux risques et affectent entre autres non seulement l'image de l'Organisation face à des tiers, mais met également en cause la viabilité d'exécution de son programme de travail.
C'est dans cette optique que nous considérons le budget proposé comme "un budget possible" et de loin ce qui serait un budget souhaitable, capable d'appuyer d'une manière significative le développement agricole des pays en voie de développement et notamment de ceux qui, pour des raisons naturelles, se trouvent dans une situation plus grave. C'est ainsi que nous approuvons en général le budget proposé,conscients que la situation actuelle ne présente pas d'autres possibilités plus favorables.
Monsieur le Président, Mesdames, Messieurs, nous ne pouvons pas laisser passer cette occasion d'exprimer notre satisfaction à l'inclusion dans le Programme de travail et budget de 1988-89, de la prévision d'une étude relative aux faits négatifs de la politique d'Apartheid de l'Afrique du Sud sur la situation alimentaire et le développement agricole de l'Afrique australe et concernant également les conséquences de l'occupation par Israël des territoires arabes. Ces études, pour nous, représentent une importance capitale. C'est pourquoi nous proposons qu'une solution adéquate soit adoptée à cette fin.
En ce qui concerne le programme de coopération technique, nous ne pouvons que regretter que les ressources qui lui sont destinées soient de moins en moins importantes. La Conférence pourra discuter des points relatifs à la réforme au sein de l'Organisation, en ce qui concerne notamment sa structure et ses méthodes de travail et ses capacités de décision. De toute évidence, mon pays estime également qu'il convient d'évaluer de manière permanente tous ces aspects, de les rendre appropriés face à la situation nouvelle, et d'en rendre l'efficacité accrue. Nous approuvons la position adoptée par le Groupe des 77 sur le fait que les réformes à entreprendre doivent être entreprises d'une manière progressive, afin d'éviter les risques de paralysie, ou la réduction de l'efficacité de l'Organisation.
En ce qui concerne le Programme d'action présenté à la Conférence, je voudrais dire que celui-ci mérite notre accord d'une manière générale. Il est extrêmement important en ce qui concerne le continent africain.
Je vois avec grande satisfaction que les deux grandes lignes de force présentées, la formation, la connaissance et l'utilisation des ressources naturelles, définies comme élément stratégique dans mon pays, occupent une place de choix puisque leur importance la justifie.
C'est précisément dans ce cadre que se placent un ensemble de projets que nous chercherons à développer avec la FAO dans le nouveau cycle du PNUD qui commence maintenant.
Pour nous,la formation, notamment de vulgarisateurs ruraux, dans le cycle qui durera jusqu'en 1992, assume un caractère déterminant, puisque une grande partie de notre politique agraire se fonde sur l'augmentation de .la productivité de la terre. La vulgarisation comme forme d'enseignement informelle et de formation des paysans constitue une composante indissociable de la réussite de cet objectif.
Par ailleurs, l'organisation des paysans en associations, constituant un aspect inséparable de la modernisation progressive de l'agriculture, la formation des cadres qui serviront ces associations, en plusieurs domaines, et surtout dans celui de la gestion, apparaît comme fondamentale pour garantir une vie propre satisfaisante, une possibilité de développement pour ces paysans.
Dans le domaine de l'inventaire et de l'usage des ressources naturelles, nous attribuons une importance particulière à la création d'un service de statistiques et à des enquêtes agricoles ainsi qu'à une étude pédologique. Nous croyons aussi que la gestion des ressourcée disponibles, la comptabilisation des différentes aides internationales l'évaluation des principaux domaines à développer seront nécessairement plus efficaces si nous pouvions compter sur l'aide, le conseil et l'expérience des organismes qui se consacrent à ce genre de problème.
Enfin, nous continuerons, je l'espère, à bénéficier de l'appui de la FAO dans des domaines fondamentaux comme celui de la production de semences et de vaccins afin de réduire notre dépendance vis-à-vis de l'extérieur, en ce qui concerne la protection des plantes, pour réduire les pertes causées par les fléaux et les maladies.
Avec toutes les difficultés qùe connaît un pays en voie de développement vivant dans une situation de guerre non déclarée mais qu'il est obligé d'affronter, nous venons de commencer une nouvelle campagne que nous envisageons avec optimisme.
Les principes adoptés par le deuxième Congrès du Parti seront traduits et amplifiés dans la présente campagne selon nos possibilités, renforcées par l'assistance internationale, bilatérale et multilatérale. Entre temps, de grandes modifications.de la vie économique se préparent dans notre pays. Son Excellence, le Président de la République, José Eduardo Dos Santos, a récemment annoncé au pays et au monde qu'à partir de janvier 1988 entrerait en vigueur un ensemble de mesures qui sont intitulées: Assainissement économique et financier.
La situation actuelle des travaux et la durée limitée de notre intervention devant cette auguste assemblée nous permettent seulement d'affirmer qu'avec cet ensemble de mesures nous chercherons à revitaliser l'économie, à garantir la reprise du pouvoir d'achat des travailleurs, à parvenir à l'équilibre interne entre l'offre et la demande, en un mot à créer une situation économique saine et progressive et une situation financière stable.
Nous croyons qu'avec de telles mesures le monde agricole en général et les paysans en particulier bénéficieront de ce qui sera effectué puisque leurs produits seront vendus à un prix plus juste et leurs conditions de vie en seront améliorées grace à la possibilité d'accéder à un vaste marché capable de satisfaire leurs besoins. Ils seront également encouragés à déployer de nouveaux efforts pour atteindre l'objectif que nous souhaitons tous atteindre ardemment: l’autosuffisance alimentaire en produits essentiels. Merci, Monsieur le Président.
Murlidas DULLOO (Mauritius): Mr Chairman, Colleague Ministers, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, may I first congratulate you Mr. Chairman upon your election and for the remarkable way in which you have been presiding upon this conference - and may I also thank all those who are staying here stoically despite the late hour, and who have blessed me with their presence notwithstanding the many cocktail parties and dinners which are being thrown in our honour.
Mr Chairman, may I also congratulate the Director-General, Mr Edouard Saouma, on his reappointment as Director-General for a third term of office. Mr Saouma's two-terms of office have already left their imprint on the Organization and I am confident that during his third term of office he will lead the FAO to new heights. The Director-General can be assured of the full support of Mauritius for his third mandate.
I must here add that Mr Moise.Mensah, though not elected, does not deserve less of our appreciation; and Mr Saouma's election assumes an even greater dimension by the mere fact of having had such an able opponent running against him.
I have no doubt that with his usual foresight and sagacity, Mr Saouma's commitment to Africa shall not waver in the least and that on the contrary he will redouble his efforts to help Africa along with the rest of the Third World out of the present food crisis.
We are meeting here to consider the major world trends and policies in food and agriculture and, while considering the activities and the general organization of the FAO, to determine how best our organization can play its role.
In the context of the McDougall Lecture we have already been gratified with a comprehensive and staggering picture of the world situation by Dr Jean Mayer and I would like to thank and congratulate him I agree in substance with all that Dr Mayer has said. I should also thank the Director-General for his report, especially for his vibrant appeal to the international community both to redress the food supply situation and to support the FAO.
After what I have listened to so far, and after discussing with many of my colleagues, I am just wondering whether the right of access to food should not be established as another fundamental human right. Should we not think in terms of a legal international regime on food which would govern the use and distribution of food-producing sources, the overall supply of food and the quality of food available, international agricultural trade, agricultural prices to producers and the price of food, and even social and economic realities to establish a guaranteed and coherent set of living standards.
Food should therefore be our first priority. Nobody can escape the need for food. It is the most basic human need and is vital for each individual. But can the questions relating to the production and availability of food be left to each individual or his dependents? We have moved a long way from the time when unless man produced his food through his personal efforts he could not survive. The general trend now is that the consumer commands purchasing power and he obtains food for his need when and where he needs it. unfortunately, this is not yet the case for millions living in some areas of the Third World, where unless you grow all or most of your food, you will not eat to satisfy your hunger.
Food production and food availability therefore can no longer be a matter left to individuals. They are and should be the concern of governments. But food self-reliance is still a distant dream for many nations. Food self-reliance is not measured in terms of production totals or attainment of production targets. The real criterion is: do all the people of the country have access to an adequate amount of food? Many countries, especially of the Third World have failed to achieve this objective due to many combined factors, including wrong soci-o-economic structure or wrong priorities within the national economy; lack of adequate resources and support to agricultural development, especially the for "i's that is incentives, inputs, institutions and infrastructures; continued adverse climatic conditions, over-exploitation and degradation of an extremely fragile environment; and above all, a hostile external economic environment and an extremely unfavourable international agricultural trade aggravated by growing protectionism. With the heavy external debt burden and the already heavy commitment for military spending some countries seem to be beyond redemption.
Others speaking before me have indicated to this forum how the Green Revolution has been successful in the major parts of the world like Europe, North America, Asia and some parts of Latin America. It is clear that the low-income food deficit countries, especially in Africa, will never be able to recover on their own national efforts. Some of them are already engaged in an epic struggle and have embarked on wide structural social, managerial and technological reforms. The help and support of the international community and international agencies and regional bodies is. vital.
From being an essentially individual and national concern, food therefore has become above all an international affair. But we should be careful not to reduce international cooperation to the mere import of massive food aid (except in emergency cases) or to large scale introduction of foreign methods, expertise and technologies alien to the social organization or natural environment. Abrupt structural adjustments and application of stereotype prescriptions prove more disruptive than productive.
We should not forget that the promoter of the famous Marshall Plan once said: "Food is an important factor in our foreign policy".
Some time later Senator Hubert Humphrey had this to say: "In a world of want and hunger what is more powerful than food and fibre-" and he also added further, "I have heard that people may become dependent on us for food. I know that was not supposed to be good news. To me, that was good news, because before people can do anything they have got to eat. And if you are looking for a way to get people to lean on you and to be dependent on you, in terms of their cooperation with you, it seems to me that food dependence would be terrific." That was said in 1959.
The generally deteriorating world food and agriculture situation requires from us full support for the concept of world food security and the urgent need to maintain a higher rate of growth of food production in the deficit areas. The national administrative set-up should provide the framework for regional food security schemes and international early warning system. While devoting our effort to food production, we should concentrate more on increasing access to food resources by different groups of people.
Despite the World Food Conference of 1984 which placed more emphasis on the egalitarian distribution of food, the various programmes have remained focused essentially upon increased.production and food aid. We should devise ways and means to solve the problems both of agricultural surpluses and shortages. This does not mean that the food producing nations should keep the rest of the world on permanent food welfare. On the other hand, a food warfare is what I dread if the present situation is allowed to aggravate.
This is why at the outset I said that right of access to food should become one of the fundamental human rights. A duty should be imposed upon states, individually and collectively, to improve and enhance the overall supply of food and the quality of food available.
This is why I add my voice to ail those who have been appealing for an urgent reform of all trade-distorting agricultural policies, both domestic and international. We should all assume our responsibility in this direction at the Uruguay Round of GATT Multilateral Trade Negotiations. We should derive the maximum benefit from the FAO's participation in the work of the agriculture and tropical commodities "groups.
To improve the quality of food, especially in the Third World countries, we should improve the quality of life of the rural population and of women generally. In Third World countries women participate in a major way in food production. In recognition of their active participation in production, every effort should be made to study carefully their role with a view to making their task less tedious.
Exploitation of the resources of the sea is of paramount importance to developing nations, for the sea can offer a plentiful supply of relatively cheap protein.
However, we know of many countries having large maritime resource potential but deprived of the means for this exploitation. The FAO has been making much effort in this direction. In my country, the FAO is currently engaged in financing projects for the development of our fisheries resources. Simultaneous efforts should be directed towards the protection of such resources, particularly as many small island countries with sizeable Exclusive Economic Zones are not in a position to exercise surveillance over such zones, since it would be beyond their means to organise any meaningful and effective surveillance. There should be proper husbandry and management of the maritime resources which are far from being infinite. We should also stop the process of converting the sea into a huge garbage can.
Nearer the land, the lagoons of many countries are being choked by the action of man. Industrial effluents and human waste, indiscriminate removal of sand and corals, the flow of harmful chemicals washed down by inland waterways, all have damaging effects on marine life. And the experience of Mauritius - which has known a rapid pace of development - is a case in point. Today; life in our lagoons is literally disappearing and this has become a cause for concern to all Mauritians. We have called for expertise from many friendly countries to help us combat this problem which was brought more into focus in the course of the recent International Ocean Festival held in Mauritius, wherein all the major nations of the world, Australia, China, France, India, Japan, U.K., U.S.A., participated. A concerted effort is required to combat the pollution of the sea. The need for an international coordinating body cannot be over-emphasized, because experience gained elsewhere should be shared, especially with small island states like Mauritius.
Lately mankind has become very conscious of his environment and the grim picture painted by some is food for serious thought. Already atmospheric imbalance is having serious effects on our forests around the world. The elementary lessons we learnt at school that the trees provide the much needed and vital oxygen for us should lead us to be more conscious of our forestry resources.
The rate at which forests have been cleared by far outstrips any re-afforestatíon efforts. The results manifest themselves in the form of droughts, soil erosion, drying up of waterways and the progression of the desertification process, thus narrowing further the world's agricultural production possibilities.
Mauritius is trying to cope with the situation by providing enough food for its population, integrating the womenfolk in her development effort, managing and developing the fisheries resources, protecting its environment and preserving its' forestry resources.
Following the 14th FAO Regional Conference on Africa, the Government of Mauritius has pursued its policy to diversify its agriculture away from sugar and to produce as much food as possible. Though I should emphasize here that sugar is a food item and cane sugar is a tropical product. Vegetables, maize, groundnuts and other short-cycle crops are produced in sugarcane interrows, and we have, in a number of crops, achieved self-sufficiency, while in others sensible progress is being made. We are realistic and we know we cannot achieve self-sufficiency on all fronts especially as regards rice and wheat, though they form the basis of the Mauritian diet.
At the level of our national budget, 15 percent of investment is allocated to agriculture. And the National Budget on Agriculture ranks in priority with Education, Health and Social Security. The Mauritian Government has also continued to promote the four "i's" through various schemes under which producers are given incentives, and have access to quality inputs. Mauritius is at present producing 60 percent of its seed requirements and all its fertilizer requirements. We are even exporting some to our neighbours.
Infrastructures and irrigation are being expanded to cope with the present level of production.
Due attention is also being given to the consolidation of institutions engaged in research, post harvest technology and marketing of produce.
Over the last few years FAO has been instrumental in establishing a number of regional bodies. For example, in the South West Indian Ocean FAO has launched a Regional Fisheries Management Project which has helped to initiate development programmes at national and regional levels and has provided regular technical support to these programmes. It has also made available on-the-spot advice to a number of our specific problems.
The Government of Mauritius, being fully aware of the hazards of environmental degradation, especially in small island ecosystems, has during the past decade set up institutional and legal frameworks to protect its natural resources. The forest resources of Mauritius, although limited in extent, play a vital role in soil and water conservation.
New legislation has been enacted to provide better protection to our forests in general and to our native flora and fauna in particular. At the institutional level, a Nature Reserves Board, has been created. A Standing National Committee on reafforestation, involving public, private and voluntary organisations was launched in early 1985 to promote tree planting and to protect existing forests. The Government distributes plants freely to organisations willing to join in the reafforestation effort. 75% of the number of plants earmarked for free distribution have already been issued.
The Government has, in the field of conservation, listed a number of major projects, short and medium term, to be executed with the participation of international organisations like the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the World Wildlife Fund, the Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust, the United Nations Environment Programme and the International Council for Birds Preservation.
Why have I dwelt so long on the conditions prevailing in Mauritius? It is because Mauritius, given its unique position, can serve as a laboratory in many fields. Projects can be fully monitored and the results and findings made readily available in the short term for the benefit of other potential users.
Food production, development of fishery resources and the protection of forest resources have not received an adequate level of attention from many developing countries. In some cases because of lack of full awareness of these problems, in others through resources being devoted to other areas, though not priority ones; in others yet through the lack of adequate specialised knowledge. Mankind would stand to gain if developed and developing countries join hands to coordinate food production to meet demand and supply and thus avoid wastage of scarce resources.
It may prove more worthwhile to give to deserving countries agricultural inputs adapted to their environment and their needs as aid in kind since the results would be more lasting than direct food aid, which no doubt should continue as emergency aid in cases of natural disaster or calamity.
The FAO has been assuming the role entrusted so far to it fully. it has to face new challenges in helping to promote agricultural production, to ensure food security and the right of access to food and to guarantee a reasonable nutritional level for everyone. It is, therefore, opportune that we consider a review of certain aspects of FAO's goals and operations including the need for reform in the Programme Budget process. In so doing we should preserve the spirit of multilateralism, the sovereignity of each member state as expressed through the democratic process of equality of roles. I have no doubt that the FAO will live up to our expectations.
Before ending let me express the pleasure of the Government of Mauritius at having been chosen as the venue for the forthcoming FAO Regional Conference for Africa to be held from the 26 April to 4 May next year. The Government of Mauritius, and myself in particular, would be only too pleased to welcome the Director-General, the staff of the FAO, and all my colleagues and other delegations who would be participating in that conference.
Famara Ibrahima SAGNA (Senegal): Il nous est donné, à nouveau, et pour In 24ème fois consécutive, l'occasion de nous retrouver en vue d'échanger et de concilier nos points de vue sur la marche de l'organisation pour l'alimentation et l'agriculture, notre Organisation, à qui ses pères fondateurs, il y a 42 ans, assignèrent le mandat de lutter contre la faim et la manlnutrition, d'aider à développer l'agriculture, l'élevage, les forets et les pêches du monde.
L'ambition d'un tel mandat, n'a d'égale assurément, que la complexité des facteurs d'influence du trinôme: production, consommation, commercialisation, inhérents aux produits alimentaires.
Alors qu'il apparaît indispensable, ici, pour sauvegarder l'agriculture, de décourager les fermiers à produire davantage, autrement dit, de primer les producteurs pour ne pas avoir produit, ailleurs la préoccupation fondamentale est de réunir les instruments d'incitation pertinents afin qu'il soit produit davantage.
Ce sont là les deux faces d'une même réalité, qui me donne l'occasion de réaffirmer combien mon pays, le Sénégal, reste attaché à la FAO, cet instrument indispensable que nous avons bâti ensemble, pour permettre à tous les pays, aujourd'hui plus que jamais, de partager leurs expériences et leurs réflexions dans leur lutte contre la faim et la malnutrition.
Je saisis cette occasion pour vous transmettre le salut ainsi que les encouragements de son Excellence Monsieur Abdou Diouf, Président de la République du Sénégal et Président en exercice du CILSS, pour que de nos travaux, la FAO sorte encore plus forte et plus résolue face aux innombrables défis qui ne cessent, chaque jour d'interpeller nos campagnes et nos consciences.
Monsieur le Président, souffrez que ma délégation se réjouisse du choix qui a été porté sur votre illustre personne pour présider à nos travaux. Ceci en constitue assurément un gage de réussite.
Nos félicitations s'adressent également à votre prédécesseur, son Excellence Monsieur Jean Baptiste Yonke, Ministre de l'Agriculture du Cameroun, pour l'efficacité et la chaleur avec lesquelles il a su conduire, de main de maître, la session de notre Conférence, qui consacrait le quarantième anniversaire de la FAO.
Nos félicitations vont aussi aux Vice-Présidents élus, à Monsieur Edouard Saouma, dont ma délégation tient ici, encore une fois, à louer les mérites personnels et professionnels, de même que son engagement indéfectible pour la cause du tiers monde en général et de l'Afrique en particulier et tant que Directeur général de la FAO. Nous lui réitérons tous nos remerciements.
Nous lui donnons l'assurance qu'il pourra toujours et déjà compter sur le soutien effectif du Sénégal dans l'accomplissement de sa lourde mais exaltante et noble mission.
Permettez-moi enfin, de rendre hommage aux membres du Conseil et des différents comités de notre organisation, dont le travail pendant les intersessions de la Conférence, si utile au déroulement de nos débats, permettra de parachever les actions nécessaires et de préparer l'avenir.
La session qui nous réunit en cette fin d'année a été marquée par l'élection du Directeur général de notre organisation. Or qui dit élection, dit renouveau, qui signifie revue de programmes, de procédures de méthodes.
C'est sans doute ce qui a amené le secrétariat, avec courage et lucidité à porter à notre jugement l'examen des objectifs et des opérations de la FAO, aidé en cela par nombre de pays et de groupes de pays qui ont fait des propositions des plus pertinentes allant dans ce sens.
Or, ce fut en 1945 que la communauté internationale prit l'engagement de favoriser l'expansion de l'économie mondiale et l'éradiction de la faim, de la malnutrition et de la pauvreté.
De même, en 197.4, la Conférence mondiale de l'alimentation, prenait l'engagement d'éliminer le problème de la faim dans un délai de 10 ans.
Aujourd'hui, la situation mondiale de l'alimentation et de l'agriculture est faite de paradoxes et reste marquée par des approvisionnements pléthoriques, certains pays ne sachant que faire de leurs excédents, tandis que d'autres se trouvent confrontés à de graves pénuries.
Globalement, l'abondance de l'offre a certes renforcé la sécurité alimentaire mondiale d'un côté, mais l'a affaiblie de l'autre. En effet, le bas niveau des prix des produits de base sur les marchés mondiaux, la montée du protectionnisme et l'alourdissement de la dette extérieure, ont beaucoup aggravé la situation des pays en développement qui, faute de ressources financières, arrivent difficilement à importer la nourriture dont ils ont besoin ou les intrants indispensables au développement de leur agriculture.
En effet, la croissance de la production alimentaire et agricole, qui avait presque atteint l'objectif de 4 % au cours des quatre premières années de la décennie a ralenti dans les pays en développement. En conséquence, la production vivrière des pays en développement par habitant, exception faite de la Chine et de L'Inde, ne s'est que très légèrement accrue.
En Afrique, le secteur agricole s'est bien remis en 1985 et 1986 des effets de la sécheresse qui avait ravagé au début des années 80. En effet, la FAO estime qu'au milieu de 1987, sept pays de ce continent avaient des excédents exportables de céréales secondaires sur la récolte de 1985-1986 et cinq pays avaient des excédents locaux exceptionnels.
Le volume des excédents non écoulés tient au manque de débouchés, à la faiblesse du pouvoir d'achats dans les villages à déficit vivrier et à l'insuffisance des infrastructures pour approvisionner les zones déficitaires.
Dans le même temps, sept pays d'Afrique souffraient de pénuriesalimentaires graves. Ainsi, malgré une nette amélioration globale, l'Afrique doit continuer à faire face à de sérieux problèmes alimentaires.
Le taux de croissance de la production vivrière dans la région en 1980 n'a été que de 2,9 % par an contre un taux de croissance démographique d'au moins 3 %. Entre 1987-1977 et 1983-1985, les disponibilités caloriques par habitant ont diminué dans 21 des 38 pays d'Afrique subsaharienne étudias par la FAO.
Au terme de ce rapide survol de la situation alimentaire et agricole qui prévaut dans le monde, force nous est de constater que malgré des progrès appréciables, mais dans l'ensemble limités, les objectifs que j'ai rappelés naguère sont loin d'être atteints, pourtant les éléments explicatifs d'une telle situation ne sauraient, à notre avis, reposer ni sur la fausseté des diagnostics, ni sur la méconnaissance des voies de solution, encore moins sur l'absence de volonté politique de nos Etats.
En effet, et en nous référant à l'Afrique, il y a deux ans, les Chefs d'Etat et de gouvernement de l'Organisation de l'Unité africaine approuvaient le programme prioritaire pour le redressement économique de l'Afrique 1986-1990 qui a inspiré le programme d'action des Nations Unies pour le redressement économique et le développement de l'Afrique 1986-1990.
Dans ces programmes, les gouvernements des pays d'Afrique s'engagent à réformer leur.politique agricole et la communauté internationaLe à fournir plus du tiers (soit un apport de 9 milliards de dollars par an) des ressources financières nécessaires pour l'exécution du programme d'action des Nations Unies, estimées à 128 milliards de dollars pour la période 1986-1990.
Ce programme donne la priorité au secteur agricole et alimentaire dans une stratégie africaine de développement socio-économique.
Malgré les coûts et risques sociaux et politiques, beaucoup de pays africains se sont attelés à entreprendre les réformes précitées. Ainsi, selon la banque mondiale, 25 pays africains mettent actuellement en oeuvre un programme d'ajustement d'un type ou d'un autre. Rien qu'en 1986, selon des données du Fonds monétaire international, 20 pays africains n'ont pas hésité à recourir à la dévaluation de leur monnaie de 10% en moyenne par rapport au DTS.
Il s'y ajoute que la FAO, dans son sixième rapport sur l'ajustement agricole,trouve surprenant que l'Afrique, la région où la production agricole a augmenté le plus lentement, ait vu progresser le plus vite les dépenses publiques en faveur de l'Agriculture, quand bien même cela ne fait que correspondre aux engagements pris dans Le cadre des programmes que nous venons de citer.
Il y a deux ans, nous avons eu le privilège de vous présenter amplement les principaux axes sur lesquels repose la nouvelle politique agricole au Sénégal, approuvée en avril 1984, par le Chef de l'Etat du Sénégal, le Président Abdou DIOUF et nous n'y reviendrons pas.
Depuis lors, le Sénégal, avec l'appui de la FAO et de nos autres partenaires a affiné ses stratégies, plans et programmes relatifs au secteur agricole et les a présentés à la communauté internationale, qui les a approuvés en juin 1986.
En mars de l'année en cours, le Sénégal a également présenté avec succès la deuxième phase de son programme d'ajustement à la communauté internationale.
Le Sénégal y réaffirme la priorité donnée au développement du secteur agricole auquel il assigne les objectifs fondamentaux suivants:
- atteindre à l'horizon 2000, un taux d'autosuffisance alimentaire de 80%;
- contribuer par l'exportation à l'équilibre de la balance commerciale et de la balance des paiments;
- créer des emplois en attendant la relève par les secteurs secondaires et tertiaires.
Toutes les réformes précitées reposent, pour l'essentiel, sur des incitations à la production par le biais de la politique des prix, par la transformation des institutions touchant l'agriculture et par l'encouragement de l’initiative privée à jouer un rôle plus actif dans le secteur.
Or la FAO, notre organisation, citant des estimations récentes de l'OCDE, établit que l'aide publique au développement, à tous les secteurs en Afrique subsaharienne avait atteint en 1986 11 milliards de dollars, soit 16% de plus qu'en 1985, ce qui, compte tenu de l'inflation et de la dévaluation du dollar, représente certainement une réduction.
Selon la même source, les apports de ressources multilatérales à des conditions de faveur ont augmenté d'environ 800 millions de dollars, soit de 25%.
Le volume de l'aide bilatérale à l'Afrique subsaharienne a certainement diminué en 1986, du fait de la réduction de l'aide d'urgence.
S'agissant plus particulièrement des apports de ressources extérieures à l'agriculture africaine, la situation ne prete guère à l'optimisme. En effet, tandis que les apports de capitaux privés à l'Afrique ont pratiquement cessé au début des années 80, les engagements multilatéraux à des conditions de faveur ont baissé en 1986.
Les engagements multilatéraux sans élément de libéralité ont certes augmenté, mais au seul profit de quelques pays à revenu moyen. En mettant, en balance les efforts soutenus que nous venons de décrire, avec l'assistance extérieure escomptée, il nous faut malheureusement constater avec regret que l'aide internationale au développement diminue sans cesse pendant que les obstacles aux négociations globales et aux échanges internationaux deviennent plus complexes au détriment de l'esprit de concertation devenu encore plus nécessaire que jamais.
Il existe, certes, quelques motifs d'espoir reposant sur des initiatives récentes qui pourraient améliorer les flux de ressources dans l'agriculture.
Il faut citer au nombre de celles-là:
- la reconstitution des ressources du Fonds spécial de l’IDA pour l'Afrique, au niveau de 1,2 milliard de dollars et qui est devenu opérationnel depuis juillet 1985;
- la reconstitution, au niveau de 300 millions de dollars des ressources du programme spécial du FIDA pour l'Afrique sub-saharienne touchée par la sécheresse;
- la huitième reconstitution des ressources de l'IDA au niveau de 12,4 milliards de dollars et qui sera opérationnelle de juillet 1987 à juin 1990;
- l'objectif du Fonds africain de développement, de reconstituer ses ressources pour la période 1988-1990 au niveau de 2,5 à 3 milliards de dollars.
Il convient également de citer parmi ces motifs d'espoir les progrès enregistrés dans le cadre de l'Uruguay Round du GATT, où il est proposé d'abolir, en dix ans, toutes les subventions qui ont un effet sur le commerce agricole, d'éliminer tous les obstacles à l'importation et d'harmoniser les réglementations sanitaires.
Ni le Sénégal, ni le Sahel, ni l'Afrique n'attendent de miracle et savent qu'ils doivent compter d'abord sur leurs propres moyens, cat ils savent que tous leurs efforts seront vains sans une croissance élevée et sans un développement durable des forces productives qui sont le fruit d'un meilleur respect des règles du commerce international, d'une meilleure garantie de la stabilité des monnaies, d'un meilleur financement au niveau mondial de leurs plans de développement.
Nous restons convaincus que les moyens et les capacités existent à l'échelon mondial pour édifier, en commun, des économies solides pour nos pays et éloigner de nos populations le spectre de la faim. Voilà pourquoi nous espérons et attendons que la communauté internationale qui a déjà démontré toute la dimension de sa générosité, ainsi que de ses immenses capacités de mobilisation aille enfin jusqu'au bout de ses intentions car nos sorts sont liés, pays créanciers et pays débiteurs, nous vouions dire, pays développés et pays en développement.
L'objectif à atteindre est, tout en s'appuyant sur les plans de financement contenus dans les programmes cités auparavant, de privilégier et d'augmenter l'aide publique au développement et de s'entendre dans les meilleurs délais pour apporter au problème de la dette et de son service contraignant des solutions justes et équitables.
Monsieur le Président, comment, au moment où les Etats entreprennent des réformes profondes de leurs économies, au moment où les groupes économiques et le monde s'ajustent pour demeurer, s'étonner que des voix, des pays, se font entendre pour apporter au mode de fonctionnement et de gestion de la FAO une toilette qui leur paraît nécessaire?
Nous pensons qu'il importe que cet élan de réformes respecte les principes qui ont guidé à la création de notre organisation. Dans un monde où la recherche de consensus s'avère difficile, les réformes envisagées doivent préserver et respecter les textes fondamentaux de la FAO, en premier lieu.
En deuxième lieu, les principes démocratiques sans lesquels rien de grand et de durable n'est faisable, qui sous-tendent les mécanismes de prise de décision dans tous les domaines,doivent être préservés.
Monsieur le Président, Mesdames, Messieurs, ma délégation a analysé avec intérêt et avec la plus grande attention, le programme de travail et de budget soumis à notre examen.
S'agissant des différents programmes et malgré les difficultés financières actuelles de l'organisation, ma délégation note avec satisfaction que les programmes techniques et de coopération ainsi que la priorité accordée à l'Afrique continuent à occuper la première place.
Quant au projet de budget soumis à notre approbation, il accuse un taux de croissance relatif de 0,25 %,,soit 1,1 million de dollars en valeur relative par rapport au biennum 1986/1987. Ma délégation, consciente des difficultés énormes de trésorerie auxquelles les pays en développement se trouvent confrontés, souhaite que l'on procède à des études préalables pour toute mesure tendant à augmenter le niveau des contributions.
Monsieur le Président, nous ne saurions conclure sans adresser nos encouragements au Programme Alimentaire Mondial, qui n'a cessé d'apporter la preuve de l'efficacité de ses méthodes et procédures d'intervention, ainsi que de la pertinence de ses options.
En effet, l'aide alimentaire sous forme de céréales a atteint le chiffre record de 12,5 millions de tonnes en 1984/85. Depuis que des conditions pluviométriques plus clémentes ont prévalu en Afrique et dans le Sahel, elle est restée supérieure à 10 millions de tonnes en 1985/86 et 1986/87.
Nos encouragements vont également à la FAO, à notre organisation qui a su si heureusement conduire l'importante étude sur "L'agriculture africaine: les 25 prochaines années".
Les premières actions qui ont donné suite à cette étude ont trait à un programme d'aide en intrants en nature à l'Afrique.
Dans ses premières conclusions, et sur la base des études de cas entreprises dans quatre pays africains, dont le Sénégal, le document qui nous est soumis établit que dans les quatre pays étudiés, il est déjà répondu aux besoins les plus évidents d'intrants agricoles importés soit par une aide au titre des programmes soit par une aide bilatérale en nature. Les propositions qui y sont faites concernent essentiellement la satisfaction de besoins supplémentaires modestes.
Pour le cas du Sénégal, ils portent sur:
- l'approvisionnement en urée;
- le soutien au secteur de l'arachide par la fourniture de nématicides et d'injecteurs;
- a fourniture de tracteurs et d'équipement associés destinés aux zones irriguées; et
- la fourniture d'équipement de forge pour l'entretien du matériel agricole de traction animale.
Ma délégation, tout en se félicitant de ces résultats, réitère les observations qu'elle a déjà formulées à Yamoussoukro l'année dernière. Il ne nous paraît pas exact d'assimiler la demande solvable en intrants agricoles dans le Sahel aux besoins tels qu'ils ressortent des différents plans et programmes de développement agricole, les derniers dépassant de loin la première.
L'aide en intrants en nature devrait permettre, à des conditions de faveur, de distendre les rigidités pesant sur la demande finale. Il nous paraît essentiel, par le biais du programme d'aide en intrants en nature,de renforcer la coopération régionale, qui doit permettre d'améliorer les conditions de fonctionnement des unités de production et de commercialisation des intrants déjà installés.
Toujours dans le domaine des intrants, ma délégation a étudié avec la plus grande attention le document traitant de l'état d'avancement de la campagne contre les criquets et les sautériaux.
C'est pour nous l'occasion de renouveler à l'ensemble de la communauté internationale nos remerciements et toute notre gratitude pour l'appui diligent et solidaire qu'elle a apporté à mon pays, à l'ensemble du Sahel, ainsi qu'à toute l'Afrique pour maîtriser et conjuguer le péril acridien qui continue de nous menacer. Au cours de ce combat contre l'adversité de la nature, deux pionniers qui avaient avec abnégation laissé dans leur douce patrie leurs familles pour se porter à la ligne de front de combat ont payé de leur vie 1/.
Monsieur le Président, je voudrais qu'avec moi, nous tous leur souhaitions que la terre leur soit légère. Je vous remercie.
The meeting rose at 19.30 hours
La séance est levée à 19 h 30
Se levanta la sesión a las 19.30 horas
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1/ Texte reçu avec demande d'insertion au procès-verbal.
