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ARTICLE 17 -- REGIONAL IMPLEMENTATION ANNEXES:

This article, which was initially discussed in Working Group I, states that guidelines for the preparation of action programmes shall be set out in the regional annexes. Norway, supported by Sweden, wanted to postpone debate on this article until after Working Group II discusses the regional instrument for Africa. Working Group I later decided to give this article to Working Group II for further consideration.

SECTION 2: SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL COOPERATION

ARTICLE 18 -- INFORMATION COLLECTION, ANALYSIS AND EXCHANGE: This article posed no major difficulties. There seems to be consensus for the establishment of a global network. The main problem is the expected output and the level of commitment attached to its functions. For example, will the network "facilitate the networking of institutions and facilities," "facilitate the expansion of a Global network by linking," or merely "support the establishment and operation of" the network. These issues should be easily resolved during the next session.

There was debate over the type of technology required for early warning, as the document mentioned satellite imagery, aerial photography and geographic information systems. Reluctantly, the Africans conceded to deletion of references to specific technologies so as not to preclude acquisition of other technologies that may be developed in the future.