6 (j) promote sustainable development at the economic, social and cultural levels as well as the integration of African economies; (k) promote co-operation in all fields of human activity to raise the living standards of African peoples; (1) coordinate and harmonize the policies between the existing and future Regional Economic Communities for the gradual attainment of the objectives of the Union; (m) advance the development of the continent by promoting research in all fields, in particular in science and technology; (n) work with relevant international partners in the eradication of preventable diseases and the promotion of good health on the continent. Article 4 Principles The Union principles: shall function in accordance with the following (a) sovereign equality and interdependence among Member States of the Union; (b) respect of borders independence; (c) participation of the African peoples in the activities of the Union; (d) establishment of a common defence policy for the African Continent; existing on achievement of l--------------------------------------------------------------