Hon Chairperson, the much anticipated conference is here. In his 2010 state of the nation address, the hon President committed government to ensuring that the country's environmental assets and natural resources would be valued, protected and continually enhanced. When the world descends on Durban, in the beautiful kingdom of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa's government has the chance to lead and to ensure an important aspect, that this continent, which is vulnerable to the effects of climate change, will benefit abundantly.
Tourism must seize the opportunity to market our country in the global arena. We are glad that we have been given the green light.
The MF is also glad of the Minister's assurance that everything is ready, which adds value to the fact that South Africa will be hosting this most successful conference on the global threat, COP 17.
In regard to readiness, the MF cherishes the hope that the resolutions coming out of COP 17 will be implemented as the goals and objectives in the strategic and performance plans of every government department. They should take the lead, as the issues of climate change and carbon emissions at the household level must be dealt with to pave the way for a successful, bright and living tomorrow, as Africa is the continent hardest hit by climate change. Thank you.