RERMAKRS BY H.E. MR. ALI ALATAS, MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE REPUBLIC OF INDONESIA AND CHAIRMAN OF THE GROUP OF 77 AND CHINA, AT THE CLOSING OF THE "HIGH LEVEL MEETING OF THE DIALOGUE ON STRENGTHENING INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC COOPERATION FOR DEVELOPMENT THROUGH PARTNERSHIP"

New York, 18 September 1998

Mr. President,

We have come to the conclusion of what has undeniably been and very productive and enlightening two-day dialogue on issues of vital importance to the Group of 77 and China and to the world at large. Over the past two days we have focused our deliberations on the social and economic impact of globalization and interdependence and their policy implications.

At this stage, I shall not endeavour to present a summary or even less the conclusions of our discussions. Our distinguished Rapporteurs of the two Round Table meetings, one on national responses and the other on international responses to globalization, have provided us with insightful reports on how the lively and stimulating debates proceeded. From the discussions, a very encouraging convergence of perceptions emerged among all participants, representations of governments, of UN agencies, as well as of NGO's, representatives of developed and developing countries, as to one particular current aspect of globalizations, namely the recent financial/economic crisis which started in one part of the world, East Asia, but which in scope now has undeniably become a global crisis and which in nature has evolved from a monetary/financial to a full-blown economic and social crisis.

It is also quite clear that in facing globalization, with its vast opportunities as well as dire challenges, we are called upon to take urgent steps, globally, regionally and nationally to manage this force of globalization, with a view to maximizing its benefits and minimizing its risks.

Allow me, therefore, to express the deep appreciation of the Group of 77 and China to you, Mr. Secretary-General and your able collaborators for making this important Meeting possible and to our partners in the developed world for responding so positively to our call for a renewal of the dialogue.

As may be recalled, this call for renewed dialogue between developed and developing countries was put forth by the NAM and the developing countries of the Group of 77, on a new basis and utilizing a new approach, namely : mutuality of interests, common benefit and equitably shared responsibility - which constitute the essence of true global partnership in genuine interdependence. Hence, dialogue not based on confrontative agendas or adversarial approaches, as has occurred in the past.
On behalf of the Group of 77 and China, therefore, I should like to express the hope that this first encouraging step, this first instance of renewed dialogue would not be a "one-shot" affair but will be followed up by further dialogues and joint endeavorus on issues of vital common interest to all countries, developed and developing alike.

The current economic and financial problems of the world indeed require global solution that can only be achieved through such a partnership. Globalization makes it imperative that we work together to face the challenges of the coming millennium which is already knocking at our door.

Thank you.