Special attention was required for the most vulnerable, in particular African countries,
least developed countries, landlocked developing countries and the small island
developing States. Particular attention should also be given to the challenges faced by the
middle-income countries and countries in situations of fragility and conflict.
34. Member States have emphasized that sustainable development must be inclusive
and people-centred. They underscored the importance of ecosystems to people’s
livelihoods, their economic, social, physical and mental well-being, as well as their
cultural heritage – “Mother Earth” as it is known in many traditions.
35. Member States have also underscored the need to improve measures of progress,
such as gross domestic product, in order to better inform policy decisions. While
acknowledging the natural and cultural diversity of the world, they have also recognized
that all cultures and civilizations can contribute to sustainable development. Finally, they
have called for holistic and integrated approaches to sustainable development that will
guide humanity to live in harmony with the planet’s fragile ecosystems.