Recalling that the UN Convention of Climate Change and Kyoto Protocol are important steps in advancing the goal of protecting the world from the threat of climate change, while promoting economic growth, the Union Environment Minister stated that the developed countries were to provide leadership towards implementation of their commitments under the Climate Change Convention, in keeping with the principles of common but differentiated responsibilities.
Referring to the Fifth Conference of Parties, to the Framework Convention on Climate Change held at Bonn, Shri Baalu said that the Kyoto Mechanisms could offer the opportunity to achieve mutually beneficial partnerships between industrialised and developing nations. When the Kyoto Protocol comes into force, the Clean Development Mechanism should serve as an additional source for technologies and resources, the Minister added. Shri Baalu further emphasised the need for state-of-the-art technologies, which would provide services for improving living standards.
US Senator Mr. Brownback stressed the need for greater cooperation and regular dialogue between USA and India on various issues relating to protection of environment.