Russia moves twoard Kyoto Protocol ratification

            http://newsfromrussia.com/main/2003/12/03/51627.html
            2003.12.03/20:53

            Russia moves towards Kyoto Protocol ratification

Russia is moving towards ratification of the Kyoto Protocol, Mukhamed
Tsikanov, Russian deputy minister for economic development and trade, told
reporters on Wednesday.

"No other decisions regarding ratification of the Kyoto Protocol have been
taken except what we have many times spoken of - we are moving towards its
ratification", he said.

To him, the government may send the Kyoto Protocol for ratification by the
State Duma already in 2004. Tsikanov refused to predict timeframe for
ratification because it is the prerogative of parliament.

At the same time, he recalled that the ratification matter has not yet been
considered by the cabinet and no decision has yet been taken.

He had to admit that the economic efficiency of the protocol ratification
for Russia is "low". This is due to the "passive position of our partners -
the European Union and Japan", he said.

"Talking of the economic component of the Kyoto Protocol, the rate of
movement towards its ratification also depends on our partners, who are
taking a neutral stance", Tsikanov said.

             © RIAN