HIGHLIGHTS FROM THURSDAY, 3 SEPTEMBER

On Thursday, the high-level segment opened, with the participation of several heads of state and numerous ministers and heads of international organizations. On Thursday morning, the WCC-3 adopted, by acclamation, a declaration deciding to establish a Global Framework for Climate Services.

During the opening of the high-level segment, Moritz Leuenberger, Minister of Transportation, Energy and Communications, Switzerland, called for an entry into a century of climate enlightenment. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stressed the need for an ambitious, comprehensive and fair agreement in Copenhagen. Rajendra Pachauri, IPCC Chair, highlighted the need for continuous data and monitoring of climate impacts. Alexander Bedritsky, WMO President, stressed the need for the establishment of linkages at local, national and international levels.

Armando Emílio Guebuza, President of Mozambique, stressed the importance of strengthening early warning systems and improved water management. Emomalii Rakhmon, President of Tajikistan, highlighted climate change impacts on water resources, particularly in central Asia. Prince Albert II, Monaco, noted the many advances made by science that allowed for an expanded knowledge base at Copenhagen. Girma Wolde Giorgis, President of Ethiopia, stressed the need for effective communication of extreme weather events and capacity building. Danilo Türk, President of Slovenia, said users' needs should drive the systems for addressing climate change. Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister of Bangladesh, said US$2 billion is needed for least developed countries adaptation funds over next 5 years. Hui Liangyu, Vice Premier of China, stressed the need to improve climate service capabilities and systems. Ali Mohamed Shein, Vice President of Tanzania, called for increasing the number of weather stations and developing capacity. Toke Talagi, Premier of Niue, highlighted the urgent need for the Pacific Island states already facing increased sea levels to obtain adaptation funds. Jim Marurai, Prime Minister, Cook Islands, noted that Small Island Developing States need an urgent commitment for reduction of greenhouse gases.

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon arrives for the opening of the High-level Segment