Chair, the ACDP notes the Minister's assurances that COP 17 is on track and we hope that COP 17 will be successful in every way.
At the heart of this COP 17 agenda, as I understand it, is the need for an extended commitment to the Kyoto Protocol. This will be an important interim legal instrument while a new instrument is developed and agreed to by participating countries.
South Africa, we agree, needs to be committed to advancing a common African position at the conference.
Clearly it is every country's responsibility to adapt in response to the effects of climate change. Mitigating these effects, or ensuring that the effects of climate change are less severe, and that the negative impact on human and natural systems is minimal, however, requires a global response. The effects of action or inaction may not be obvious in the short term, but will impact significantly on future generations.
South Africa's commitment to emission reduction and carbon budgets is impressive, but will require sustained effort and co-operation from all spheres, including individual citizens, in choosing eco-friendly lifestyles and habits.
We congratulate you, hon Minister, on your election as president of COP - a big challenge! We have full confidence that you will do an excellent job and wish you everything of the best in fulfilling the function. Thank you. [Applause.]