In Copenhagen: Africa moves to stop rich country power grab and protect Kyoto targets

For Immediate Release

FRIENDS OF THE EARTH INTERNATIONAL SUPPORTS AFRICAN CALL

AFRICA MOVES TO STOP RICH COUNTRY POWER GRAB AND PROTECT KYOTO TARGETS

COPENHAGEN , December 14, 2009 — Commenting on the African Group of nations’ opposition to an outrageous attempt by rich countries to kill the Kyoto targets in Copenhagen, Friends of the Earth International’s Nnimmo Bassey said:

“We support African countries’ demands for Kyoto targets and mandatory emissions reductions for rich countries. We denounce the dirty negotiating tactics of rich countries which are trying to change the rules and tilt them in their own favor. Developed countries are stalling these negotiations as Africa attempts to move them forward.”

The Danish Presidency has proposed for today “President’s informal consultations,” which appeared to be an attempt to collapse two separate negotiating tracks in Copenhagen and thereby “abolish” the Kyoto Protocol. This would allow rich countries to dodge their emissions reduction obligations.

FOR INTERVIEWS CONTACT:

Elizabeth Bast, Friends of the Earth International, + 45- 61 27 63 06

MEDIA OFFICERS:

Henry Rummins, Friends of the Earth England Wales and Northern Ireland, +44 776 16 01 666 (UK mobile) or + 45 617 20 747 (danish mobile)

Nick Berning, Friends of the Earth US + 45 30 48 31 73