Consensus close on new round of negotiations to extend Kyoto agreement

OTTAWA -- Negotiators were working feverishly Monday on a draft text which would open negotiations on another round of cuts in greenhouse emissions, beyond those required in the existing Kyoto Protocol.

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Environmentalists were delighted with a draft text on article 3, paragraph 9 of the protocol, which has emerged as the most contentious topic of the conference. The article says ratifying nations shall consider commitments "for subsequent periods" of the protocol.

China and the Group of 77, comprised of developing countries, have submitted a draft resolution saying that the new talks "should begin without delay." The European Union has suggested that proposals be prepared for consideration in May 2006. Japan has suggested the new talks begin in November 2006.

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There has been much corridor criticism of the role being played by the U.S. delegation at the conference.

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http://www.canada.com/topics/news/national/story.html?id=4a144696-618b-483c-82cd-5aadc0df5a99&k=12797

that we are represented by the current regime on this life-and-death issue.