The 21st Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP21) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change opened at a convention center in the Paris suburb of Le Bourget on November 30 (hereinafter local time; early in the morning, November 30, Korea Standard Time). The purpose of the conference is to discuss concrete measures to prevent climate change after 2020 for the survival of mankind. Leaders from about 150 countries have expressed their strong commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. France holds the presidency of COP21.
In his opening speech, French President Francois Hollande said: “Everything depends on us. Never have the stakes of an international meeting been so high because it concerns the future of the planet, the future of life.” He also urged the countries to reach a global agreement to ensure world peace for future generations. French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius said that the gathering of world leaders with one common purpose to prevent climate change was a success in itself. He added, “The world expects an agreement in Paris.” UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said, “We have negotiated and discussed without taking concrete action for 23 years. There is no time to waste.” He underlined the importance of the conference in thwarting the impact of climate change, stressing its seriousness.
The French newspaper Le Monde has declared that the outcomes of the Paris climate conference will determine the future of our planet.
Reporter Lee Seul[dew@newshankuk.com]
