Arthur

UNITED NATIONS (CMC):

Stating that Barbados strongly supports a post-Kyoto protocol on climate change, Prime Minister Owen Arthur has called for increased aid in assisting Small Island Developing States (SIDS) adapt to the adverse effects of climate change.

Arthur told the High-Level Summit on Climate Change at the United Nations that any new regime must be "fair and grounded in the principle that the avoidance of climate change impacts on SIDS should be used as a benchmark in assessing the appropriateness of any long-term emissions reduction goal.

"As developed countries have historically contributed most to this problem, there is a moral and legal obligation to assume the lead in significantly reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions and providing the necessary financial and technological assistance to support the adaptation efforts of developing countries.