ENB:08:28
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XII. TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION:
The focus of this chapter
is the lifeline provided to SIDS by transport and communication.
The most difficult paragraph in this chapter addressed
international telecommunications costs to SIDS. AOSIS advocated
lowering international telecommunications costs to SIDS while some
of the developed countries argued that this was not within their
mandate. It was only on the final day of negotiations that text was
agreed to. It reads: "Promote improved international
telecommunications at the lowest possible cost for small island
developing States, while recognizing the need to create an
environment conducive to the investment in telecommunications
infrastructure and service to benefit local business and people."
Other recommended international actions include: develop innovative
energy-efficient transport solutions; cooperate with national and
regional bodies in designing and enforcing effective quarantine
systems; and promote research and development in telecommunications
and transportation relevant to the sustainable development of SIDS.
Recommended national and regional action includes: strengthening
transport services; upgrading domestic communication facilities;
addressing quarantine problems; and increasing cooperation in civil
aviation, shipping and telecommunications.