Hold Key Meetings in Lyon
BONN, 5 June 2000 (UNFCCC) - The Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change today confirmed acceptance of the offer by the Government of France to host the next round of intergovernmental talks in September.
"The French offer is a sign of political engagement by a key player that bodes well for the success of this vital round of talks. This must pave the way for a comprehensive agreement on how to keep the global strategy against climate change moving ahead at the November ministerial conference in The Hague", said Michael Zammit Cutajar.
The offer to host the negotiations was made by Prime Minister Lionel Jospin. It represents a first step towards making climate change a top policy issue for the European Union during France's presidency, which runs from July through December 2000.
With the support of Mayor (and former French Prime Minister) Raymond Barre, the City of Lyon has been selected as the site of the talks. Its state-of-the-art Palais des Congress will provide an ideal venue for the 2,000 to 3,000 participants who are expected to attend the 13th sessions of the Convention's two Subsidiary Bodies from 11 to 15 September. These formal sessions will be preceded by a week of workshops and informal discussions from 4 to 8 September. The meetings will focus on advancing and finalizing issues relating to the Convention and its Kyoto Protocol just prior to the 13-24 November ministerial conference.
"The fact that these critical talks will take place in France promises to promote greater awareness of climate change amongst the global French-speaking community", said Mr. Zammit Cutajar. "Indeed, the Lyon meetings will be vitally important to ensuring effective global action on climate change over the coming decade."
For more information consult the UNFCCC website
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