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Policy Statement by Foreign Minister Keizo Obuchi

at the High-level Segment Attended by Ministers and Other Heads of Delegation of the Third Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

December 8, 1997

Mr. President, distinguished participants,

The problem of global warming stems from the economic activities undertaken by humanity since the time of the Industrial Revolution. There is no short-term or easy solution to this problem. Only an approach based on a long-term perspective can succeed in solving this problem. Still, unless we act immediately, it will be too late. It is our duty to future generations to build upon the negotiations which have taken place since the Berlin Conference and find a solution to this problem through political determination during the coming three days. First, we have to reach agreement on legally-binding emission reduction targets for developed countries, which have emitted the largest amount of greenhouse gases. Japan will exert all possible efforts, bearing in mind the principle of "meaningful, realistic and equitable targets," which was confirmed at the Special Session of the United Nations General Assembly on the Environment and Development.

Mr. President,

When we consider that greenhouse gas emissions originating in developing countries have been increasing rapidly, it is clear that this problem must be tackled through a global partnership between developed and developing countries. Developing countries as well need to make whatever efforts they can based on their respective capabilities and level of emissions. I hope that we will reach an agreement on voluntary commitments by advanced developing countries and on the commencement of a process to review the development of commitments by all Parties. Naturally, consideration must be given to sustainable development in developing countries and to related financial and technical issues. That is why at this Kyoto Conference, Japan announced the Kyoto Initiative, aiming to further strengthen assistance for developing countries. Japan also stresses the need for developed countries to act together in assisting developing countries in order to provide efficient and effective assistance.

Mr. President,

If we are to take a first solid step forward at this Kyoto Conference, it is vital that all Parties work together in a spirit of cooperation as we aim to reach agreement. At the same time, determining the particular approach which each Party will take in addressing this problem is an important matter as well. Now, I would like to ask my colleague Mr. Horiuchi, Minister of International Trade and Industry, to elaborate on this point.