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REPORT OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE:: 25-28 FEBRUARY 1997
Three of the subsidiary bodies to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) met in Bonn, Germany, from 25-28 February 1997: the fifth session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA-5), the fourth session of the Ad Hoc Group on Article 13 (AG13-4); and the fifth session of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI-5). The subsidiary bodies held two concurrent sessions, with the SBI holding six meetings, the AG13 holding five meetings and the SBSTA holding four meetings.
SBSTA-5 considered a number of issues, including cooperation with relevant international organizations, activities implemented jointly under the pilot phase, methodological issues and national communications. Delegates reached agreement on the Uniform Reporting Format, requested a work plan for an in-depth review of second national communications and requested a number of reports on technology transfer. Delegates also agreed to expand the technology needs survey instrument. They also noted the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) second and third technical papers.
AG13-4 made notable progress in further refining the function and scope of a multilateral consultative process (MCP). Delegates discussed several iterations of proposals and agreed to a “framework compilation,” which reflects areas of convergence and divergence.
SBI-5 considered a number of difficult issues, such as the programme budget, the review of the financial mechanism and actions by the Council of the Global Environment Facility (GEF). Discussions were complex and often lengthy, but delegates agreed on the timetable and process for review of the programme budget, which will be discussed in further detail at SBI-6. They also agreed on the FCCC input to the UN General Assembly Special Session to review the implementation of Agenda 21 and the arrangements for the third meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP-3). SBI-5 could not agree on the review of the financial mechanism or the activities of the GEF and will continue its discussions during the meeting of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate from 3-7 March 1997.