US Remarks To UN Convention on Climate Change

Remarks to the Seventh Session of the Conference of Parties (COP-7) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change

U.S. Department of State Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs November 2, 2001

As Delivered Remarks by Harlan L. Watson Senior Climate Negotiator and Special Representative U.S. Department of State and Head of the U.S. Delegation

Remarks to the Seventh Session of the Conference of Parties (COP-7) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change Marrakech, Morocco November 2, 2001

Thank you, Mr. President.

The agenda item "Input to the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD)" is of particular interest to the United States. We appreciate the efforts of the Secretariat in preparing a paper on this topic.

The United States wants to ensure that the WSSD is positive, productive, and worthy of the attention of all Heads-of-State. We believe this can best be accomplished with a forward-looking agenda focused in ways that all nations can advance the three pillars of sustainable development -- economic growth, social development, and environmental protection -- and the United States is actively engaged in promoting such an agenda.

The United States believes that the COP's input to the WSSD should be concise so as to make the most positive and useful contribution to the WSSD process. We also believe this input should include the recognition that climate change policies should: (1) be science-based; (2) encourage research breakthroughs that lead to technological innovation; (3) take advantage of the power of markets; (4) encourage global participation; and (5) ensure continued economic growth and prosperity for citizens throughout the world.

Mr. President, your personal attention to this subject highlights its importance to the Kingdom of Morocco. We welcome the opportunity to work closely with you and all other Parties to ensure a timely and successful outcome.

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