Environment ministers prepare common position for sustainable development summit
Environment ministers from the EU and the applicant countries will meet in Sønderborg, Denmark on 19 to 21 July to reach a common position on environmental issues before the Johannesburg summit on sustainable development at the end of August. Environment Commissioner Margot Wallström and Development, Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid Commissioner Poul Nielson will also attend the meeting, where delegates will discuss environmental problems, the role of the environment ministers during the Johannesburg summit and how to follow up any declarations made at the summit. 'Ten years ago a summit was held in Rio, but unfortunately since then, the world has not seen the progress so desperately required. Therefore, with the EU Presidency, Denmark will strive for a global deal at the South Africa summit,' said Danish Environment Minister Hans Christian Schmidt. Countries in the North and the South must demonstrate political commitment. There must be action behind the words. This is crucial,' he added. Mr Schmidt also underlined the importance of the EU presenting a united front in Johannesburg. 'We must discuss some of the outstanding problems so that Europe can take part as a solid alliance with clear ambitions for the environment. It is only in this way that the EU can take on the global leadership likely to be necessary in Johannesburg,' said Mr Schmidt.
Countries
Denmark