text: operated by Cornit interafricain d’6tudes hydrauliques servicing francophone Africa; the Asian Institute for Technology/Environmental Sanitation Information Centre in Asia; and the African Medical & R888arCh Foundation in East Africa. These regional centres, with the support of the International Development Research Centre in Canada and the International Water and Sanitation Centre in The Hague, have assisted in the establishment of information exchange mechanisms at country level in a number of countries. Examples of ongoing information exchange systems are found in the Resoaux sahelien d’information et de documentation scientifiques et techniques (RESADOC) in Mali, and th8 Water and Sanitation Network (WASIN) in Indonesia. Support for the implementation of similar ventures has also been provided to Thailand and the United Republic of Tanzania. In addition, WHO’s Country External Support System contains data on sector and project activities of external support agencies in developing countries. /. . .A/45/327 English Page 17 60. Inter-country co-operation in the area of information exchange has also expanded, as illustrated by the annual meetings co-ordinate8 by the African Medical and Research Pouadation, instituted in 1987, for representatives of government departments and training institutes from Kenya, Uganda anc¶ the United Republic of Tanaania to discuss their information needs. This effort has led to a better flow of information including the dissemination of essential books to the participating institutions and their project offices, based on a detailed assessment of needs. 61. International and national NGOs involved in the promotion sf appropriate technology, primary health care and rural development have published manuals and communication materials in support of community-based sustainable development. An example is the information exchange network operated by the Asian Alliance of Appropriate Technology Practitioners linking up NGOs in six Asian countries in an effort to collect and disseminate the experiences of grass-root organisations, A
analysis: The text appears to be discussing international cooperation and information exchange mechanisms related to water and sanitation, health, and sustainable development. It mentions regional centers and networks, international organizations, and national NGOs involved in promoting appropriate technology and community-based development. The text does not specifically focus on economic development, industry, transport, or international trade, but rather emphasizes the sharing of information and experiences to improve water and sanitation services, health outcomes, and sustainable development.