A/RES/49/81 Page 2 cooperation in all spheres can be enhanced by positive developments worldwide, particularly in Europe and in the Middle East, Noting with satisfaction the positive developments in the Middle East peace process that will lead to achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the region and therefore to promoting confidence-building measures and good neighbourly spirit among the countries of the area, Expressing satisfaction at the growing awareness of the need for joint efforts by all Mediterranean countries so as to strengthen economic, social, cultural and environmental cooperation in the Mediterranean region, Reaffirming the responsibility of all States to contribute to the stability and prosperity of the Mediterranean region and their commitment to respect the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations, as well as the provisions of the Declaration on Principles of International Law concerning Friendly Relations and Cooperation among States in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations, 1/ Expressing its concern at the persistent tension and continuing military activities in parts of the Mediterranean that hinder efforts to strengthen security and cooperation in the region, Taking note of the report of the Secretary-General on this item, 2/ 1. Reaffirms that security in the Mediterranean is closely linked to European security as well as to international peace and security; 2. Expresses its satisfaction at the continuing efforts by Mediterranean countries to contribute actively to the elimination of all causes of tension in the region and to the promotion of just and lasting solutions to the persistent problems of the region through peaceful means, thus ensuring the withdrawal of foreign forces of occupation and respecting the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of all countries of the Mediterranean and the right of peoples to self-determination, and therefore calls for full adherence to the principles of non-interference, nonintervention, non-use of force or threat of use of force and the inadmissibility of the acquisition of territory by force, in accordance with the Charter and the relevant resolutions of the United Nations; 3. Recognizes that the elimination of the economic and social disparities in levels of development as well as other obstacles in the Mediterranean area will contribute to enhancing peace, security and cooperation among Mediterranean countries through the existing forums; 4. Commends the efforts by the Mediterranean countries in the continuation of initiatives and negotiations as well as the adoption of measures that will promote confidence- and security-building as well as disarmament in the Mediterranean region, and encourages them to pursue these efforts further; 1/ Resolution 2625 (XXV), annex. 2/ A/49/333 and Add.1. /...