ENB:04:65 [Next] . [Previous] . [Contents]

---

SUMMARY OF THE SIXTH SESSION OF THE INC FOR THE: ELABORATION OF AN: INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION TO COMBAT DESERTIFICATION: 9-18 JANUARY 1995

After the fierce pace of negotiations in Paris in June 1994, when the Convention to Combat Desertification (CCD) was adopted, the sixth session of the International Negotiating Committee to elaborate an international Convention to Combat Desertification in those countries experiencing serious drought and/or desertification, particularly in Africa (INCD) seemed to move at a snail"s pace. No longer faced with the deadline for adopting the Convention, and satisfied that over 95 countries had signed the Convention and that the first instrument of ratification is expected soon, delegates deliberated carefully on the programme of work for the interim period. Discussions focused largely on the role of the Interim Secretariat and preparation for the first Conference of the Parties. The ten-day meeting was characterized by short Plenary sessions and numerous regional group and negotiating group meetings, which resulted in the adoption of a resolution that establishes two working groups and sets forth the programme of work for future sessions of the INCD.