First UN Conference on Trade and Development opens

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

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.

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.

Delegates from Africa, Asia and Latin America met to coordinate solidarity among liberation struggles against colonialism and imperialism.

The Organization of Solidarity with the Peoples of Asia, Africa and Latin America established its executive secretariat to sustain cross-continental support after the Havana conference.

G77 ministers set out a common agenda for development, trade and solidarity, strengthening the group’s continuing institutional role.

The Algiers political declaration raised the demand for a New International Economic Order to change unequal patterns of trade, finance and control over resources.