Statement by President of the Republic of Finland Tarja Halonen at the 15th Conference of Parties of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in Copenhagen on 16 December 2009

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The road from Bali to Copenhagen has been long and rocky. Everybody knows the urgency of the task in our hands. We are here to make a firm commitment to tackle climate change and to secure the wellbeing of man and nature. It is time to seal the deal.

The deal in Copenhagen must include three things. First, the developed countries must commit themselves to ambitious emission reductions, both mid- and long-term.

Second, we need clear commitments also from the developing countries. Especially emerging economies must reduce the growth of their emissions.

Third, having the right attitude is vital, but combating climate change will also require financial resources. Developing countries need money to adapt to climate change, to move towards low emission development paths and to fight deforestation. We need to pay special attention to the poorest and most vulnerable. Both public and private financing will be essential.

Finance is needed immediately. Finland is ready to contribute her fair share. We have already pledged 110 million Euros of fast-start funding for the next three years, with a view of scaling up our contribution, once the agreement enters into force.

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Building a bridge towards a new sustainable world is the right and obligation of everyone. Also we women have a vital role to play. Women’s participation is essential both in the negotiations and implementation of decisions. Women must be involved at all levels - internationally, nationally and locally.

The whole world is watching our conference and expects decisions here and now. Finland is ready to do her share. However, the Kyoto Protocol covers only one third of global emissions. We need everyone on board. A new climate agreement is within reach. I am confident that we can find a way to tackle the remaining differences. Let us make Copenhagen a new beginning.