UN adopts Declaration on the Granting of Independence

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.

The conference adopted principles including sovereignty, non-interference and peaceful settlement of disputes, alongside measures for economic and cultural cooperation.

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.

At the end of UNCTAD I, 77 states issued a joint declaration, creating the Group of 77 as a collective negotiating voice on economic development.