Russian government to ratify the Kyoto protocol

FR - IT

The Commission welcomed warmly the decision of the Government of Russia to submit the proposal to ratify the Kyoto Protocol to the Duma. The President of the Commission, Romano Prodi praised the Government's proposal.

"Once the Duma confirms the ratification it means that the Kyoto Protocol will enter into force. This is a huge success for the international fight against climate change. The Commission looks forward to working with Russia on carrying out the Protocol", the President said.

President Prodi and the Commission have pushed the issue repeatedly in different contacts with Russian authorities over the past months. Only last week the President held a long telephone conversation with President Putin on Kyoto Protocol.

"I have always held the view that this is in the best interest of Russia and its people. Global climate change is a fight that our generation has to win for the sake of the future of our children and this planet. We have no right to go back on our promises. The Kyoto Protocol is the best available weapon in the hands of the international community. Today President Putin has sent a strong signal of his commitment and sense of responsibility", the President stated.

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