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UNEPGC-20
THE TWENTIETH SESSION OF THE GOVERNING COUNCIL OF THE UNITED NATIONS ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM
Nairobi, Kenya
1-5 February 1999

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Photos and Real Audio from 4 February

High-Level Ministerial Segment

Dr. T�pfer highlighted the UN's growing presence in Africa and Africa's abundance of untapped natural and human resources, and made an appeal to assist with capacity building.
President of the Republic of Kenya Daniel Arap Moi urged the GC to approach matters in a balanced manner that would result in practical solutions for pressing environmental problems, and to consider the challenge of consumption and production patterns. He high-lighted the recent elevation of UNON and his government's support for the implementation of UNEP's mandate. He then declared the High-Level Segment officially open.

THAILAND identified coordination with other conventions as a priority, and noted that UNEP could contribute scientific, technical and legal support.

IRAN appealed to UNEP to give special emphasis to developing countries and emphasized, inter alia, alternative and renewable energy resources and clean energy production.
MEXICO called for increased financial contributions to support UNEP.
GERMANY, on behalf of the EU, highlighted the integration of environment, social and economic development, and emphasized the need for UNEP to closely cooperate with other UN organizations.
DENMARK supported a chemicals convention to address the most hazardous chemicals, and highlighted uncontrolled chemicals dumping in the developing world.
CHINA supported the establishment of an Environment Management Group (EMG), but said the criteria for member selection needs further discussion.
KENYA called for UNEP to enhance programmes in the region, and highlighted the importance of issues like forest preservation, freshwater manage-ment and monitoring.

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Earth Negotiations Bulletin, 1999. All rights reserved.