President Halonen in Copenhagen: We need everyone

President Halonen met with women delegates from developed countries. Finland has supported their participation to the UN Climate Change Conference. AFP Photo/Andreas Hillergren

Building a bridge towards a new sustainable world is the right and obligation of everyone - we need everyone on board, President of the Republic Tarja Halonen said on Wednesday, 16 December 2009 in Copenhagen. Particularly women have a vital role to play: “Women must be involved at all levels - internationally, nationally and locally”, the President said at the the United Nations Climate Change Conference.

According to President Halonen, the deal in Copenhagen must include three things: ambitious emission reductions of the developed countries, clear commitments from the developing countries and financiation of the developing countries to adapt to climate changeand to move towards low emission development paths.

“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”, President Halonen said.

Special attention to the most vulnerable

Special attention to the poorest and most vulnerable must be paid. Both public and private financing will be essential. “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.”

“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”, President Halonen said.

President Halonen heads the Finnish delegation and gave Finland's statement at the conference. On Thursday, 17 December President Halonen spoke at a side event on strengthening women's role in decision-making regarding climate change. On Thursday evening she attended dinner hosted by the Queen of Denmark and Prince Henrik at the Christiansborg Palace.

More information:

• The Statement by President Halonen at the Climate Change Conference
• COP 15 - United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen