In response to the need for the United Nations to play a more active role in removing or reducing legal obstacles to the flow of international trade, the General Assembly established the UNCITRAL in 1966 to promote the progressive harmonization and unification of the law of international trade. The 36-nation Commission, whose members represent the various geographical regions and the principal economic and legal systems of the world, reports annually to the General Assembly and also submits its report to UNCTAD for comments.