TUESDAY, 19 NOVEMBER 2002


REPORT OF THE SECRETARY GENERAL:
Ramsar Secretary General Blasco reported on the implementation of the Convention at the global level (COP8 DOC.5), highlighting key challenges for implementation. Reporting on the WSSD (COP8 DOC.7), Blasco said the challenge is to identify how the Convention can contribute to sustainable development and the WSSD's outcomes. Regarding the report on the List of Wetlands of International Importance pursuant to Article 8.2 (COP8 DOC.6), he highlighted new designations, changes in areas and ecological character, and restrictions on sites.

In response to General Blasco's speech, COTE D'IVOIRE (top left), MAURITIUS (top right) and PAPUA NEW GUINEA called for financial assistance.

Ines Gonzalez Doncel, Spain's Director General for Nature Conservation, presented a comprehensive overview of wetland conservation and sustainable use in Spain, goals for the future, and plans to designate 11 new wetlands sites, which she said improves the geographic spread of wetlands listed.

Theo Oberhuber, of Ecologistas en Accíon
said the Plan would build over 100 dams.