Bandung Final Communiqué sets principles for cooperation

Leaders and delegates from 29 Asian and African countries met to discuss anti-colonialism, peace and economic cooperation. Their conference offered a forum outside the dominant Cold War blocs.

General Assembly resolution 1514 (XV) declared that all peoples have the right to self-determination and called for an end to colonial rule.

Governments seeking independence from Cold War military blocs convened in Belgrade. Anti-colonialism and a collective voice in world affairs were central concerns.

The inaugural summit concluded by advancing peaceful coexistence, decolonization and a more independent role for developing countries in international politics.

African states signed the OAU Charter in Addis Ababa, giving institutional form to continental solidarity, decolonization and cooperation.

UNCTAD I convened in Geneva to debate commodity trade, market access and development finance at a time when newly independent states sought greater influence over trade rules.