Ad hoc Working Group on Further Commitments under the Kyoto Protocol of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG-KP 13)

STATEMENT ON BEHALF OF THE GROUP OF 77 AND CHINA BY H.E. AMBASSADOR ABDULLA MOHAMMED ALSAIDI, HEAD OF DELEGATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF YEMEN, AT THE CLOSING PLENARY OF THE THIRTEEN SESSION OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP ON FURTHER COMMITMENTS UNDER THE KYOTO PROTOCOL OF THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE (AWG-KP 13) (Bonn, Germany, 6 August 2010)

Mr. Chairman

1. I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of 77 and China

2. The Group notes that our consideration of the scale of emission reductions in aggregate as well as individual or joint contributions of Annex I Parties to this scale have been delayed through the continuing inability or unwillingness of our negotiating partners to bring to the table pledges for emission reduction commitments that are transparent or consistent with the level of ambition needed to address the increasingly urgent challenge of climate change. In this context, the key focus for our next informal session must be on raising the level of ambition in order to close the gap between these pledges and the commitments that are truly needed.

3. As the Group indicated in its opening statement, the continuity of the Kyoto Protocol is an essential element for the future of the climate change regime. The establishment of new quantified emission reduction commitments for Annex I parties under the KP is a legal obligation that must be met and is a cornerstone of the climate regime and the Cancún outcome as a whole.

Mr. Chairman

4. The Group reiterates its serious concern as to the extent of loopholes, as indicated by many of the presentations at the in-session workshop, as well as the slow progress on the AWG-KP negotiations. Mr Chair, Our talks in Cancun can succeed only if there is a clear commitment from Annex I Parties to meet their legal obligations in two tracks. KP track must lead the way in reaching the outcome at cancun.

Mr. Chairman

5. The Group of 77 and China assures you of its continuous support and readiness to engage constructively in future negotiations to ensure that the AWG-KP delivers the results of its work pursuant to decision 1/CMP.1 for adoption by the CMP at its sixth session.

6. Finally, The Group would also like to appeal to all Parties, particularly Annex I Parties, to faithfully engage in the negotiations to complete the mandate of the AWG-KP and to build a strong Kyoto Protocol.

I thank you.