Agreement reached on further COP17 agenda items; ministers to discuss complex issues, says Environment Minister

Following the adoption of 14 items at COP17’s first plenary session, the parties have reached agreement on further agenda items. More complex issues are also set to be discussed with ministers’ participation, COP17 President and Armenian Environment Minister Hambardzum Matevosyan said at a press conference in response to a question about the progress of negotiations.

Matevosyan noted that negotiations inherently involve differing positions and require additional efforts to reach agreement. He said the presidency was working with all parties to move discussions forward.

“We will hold another such session on 28 October, and another on the 30th. Since that plenary session, we have already succeeded in reaching agreement on many other items. And, of course, those items that presented greater difficulties will also need to be considered by ministers,” Matevosyan said.

He stressed that ministers’ participation would provide an opportunity, where necessary, to seek political solutions to obstacles arising in the negotiations.

According to the minister, at the first plenary session, the parties not only presented their observations but also agreed on proposed amendments. Matevosyan highlighted the importance of this cooperation and expressed hope that it would continue during the conference’s final week.