NEW YORK, NY, September 25, 2008: In addition to making the traditional annual statement to the UN General Assembly Debate, Prime Minister Dr. the Hon. Ralph Gonsalves of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines used his visit to the United Nations to address the issues of African Development and the Millennium Developmen Goals.

Prime Minister Gonsalves participated in a high level debate on the Millennium Developmen Goals, particularly efforts to reduce poverty and hunger. Prime Minister Gonsalves pointed out the difficulties faced by small island developing states, that are affected by external forces. These external forces may have adverse effects on island development.

The Prime Minister also spoke at a high-level roundtable on Africa's Development Needs. Prime Minister Gonsalves called on the international community to act decisively in confronting the challenges facing Africa, particularly in the delivery of Official Development Assistance.