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Russian cabinet offers key Kyoto endorsement
MOSCOW - The Russian cabinet today approved the Kyoto Protocol in a crucial step that could bring the long-delayed climate change treaty into effect within months. But many Russian officials remain opposed to the treaty and Prime Minister Mikhail Fradkov, on a trip to the Netherlands, said he expected "difficult debate" when parliament meets — possibly before the end of the year — to decide on final ratification.Without Russia's support, the pact — which has been rejected by the United States — cannot come into effect. It needs the support of 55 industrialized countries accounting for at least 55 per cent of global emissions in 1990. Canada has already ratified the agreement. The pact would come into effect 90 days after winning Russian support. A draft bill will now be sent to the lower house of parliament, where the dominant United Russia party approves nearly all proposed legislation backed by President Vladimir Putin. A vote could be taken by the end of the year, one official said. Posted by: Steve White 2004-09-30 |
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