Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on the Kyoto Protocol

The Secretary-General was pleased to learn today that the Russian cabinet has asked the State Duma to ratify the 1997 Kyoto Protocol on Climate Change. He welcomes this step, since the entry into force of the Kyoto Protocol, made possible by Russia's ratification, will be the essential first step in tackling the planetary challenge posed by climate change. He takes this occasion to remind the entire international community of the need to bring a greater sense of urgency to this crucial issue of human security and well-being.