upon objectives still require more effort in order to be met. Today, we are in dire need of an effective United Nations, one that is capable of fulfilling its responsibility for maintaining international peace and security, fostering sustainable development and safeguarding human rights in a manner that respects the diversity of societies and cultures. Mr. President: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia attaches great importance to the issues of sustainable development. The high priority given to human development in our budget allocation has allowed the kingdom to realize major achievement in relevant sectors. Saudi Arabia has generously supported development efforts in other developing countries. During the past three decades, it has contributed on average four percent of its annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for development assistance to 83 countries throughout the world - becoming the first in the world in this category. Saudi Arabia also provides material and moral support to multilateral development organizations and institutions at the Arab, regional and international levels by contributing to their capital as well as by providing administrative and technical support to these institutions, which play an active role in spurring economic and social development in the developing countries. --More 1155 Local Time 0855 GMT
