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Consultations underway - 31 Mar 2012

The last two months have seen intensive efforts to strengthen the zero draft of the outcome document. Member States provided amendments and comments to all five sections of the zero draft. A compilation text incorporating all those amendments and comments was circulated to Member States ahead of the informal negotiations that started in the week of 19 March.

During the informal negotiations, delegations focused on a first reading of sections 3 to 5 ? covering the two themes (a green economy in the context of sustainable development and poverty eradication, and the institutional framework for sustainable development), as well as the framework for action and means of implementation. The discussions also included a second reading of sections 1 and 2 of the compilation text.

Under the guidance of the Co-Chairs, delegations worked hard on the outcome document. There is no doubt that Member States are working extremely hard to ensure that world leaders renew political commitments for sustainable development at Rio + 20. During the exchange of views on the outcome document, many delegates underscored the urgent need for changing course, for changing unsustainable consumption and production patterns, and for building a sustainable future - a future we all want, for us, and for our children.

The broad-ranging discussion demonstrated the magnitude of the challenges our world faces and the eagerness for shared action. There was a clear sense of purpose in seeking common ground.

In my closing remarks at the conclusion of the informal negotiations, I shared with delegates my perspectives on the complexities of the negotiations yet to come. The compilation text emerging from the informal negotiations was 206 pages in length; yet the time for negotiations is short. Clearly, to reach agreement on a focused political document, as called for by the General Assembly, the business-as-usual approach will not work. Indeed, many delegates pointed out that the outcome of Rio+20 should not merely be a repetition of Agenda 21 or other treaties or agreed outcomes. They stressed that the Rio+20 outcome should build upon the earlier achievements. It should focus on actions and concrete steps forward that address implementation gaps, and that give shape and form to our shared vision and to the future we want.

I expressed my hope that delegations will focus on deliverables of fundamental significance to poverty reduction and the common wellbeing of all nations in priority areas ? such as food, water, and energy, and to deal with emerging challenges, such as urbanization, jobs, oceans, and disasters.

During the informal negotiations, delegations also held extensive discussion on sustainable development goals (SDGs). There was an emerging convergence of views that at a minimum the Rio+20 Conference should launch a process leading to the SDGs, and define the guidelines that guide their elaboration, preparation and implementation. It was felt that agreement on SDGs at Rio+20 would send a strong expression of renewed commitment for sustainable development.

Delegates also emphasized a proposal on a compendium of voluntary commitments, which may complement the official outcome document.

The second round of informal negotiations will start on 23 April and continue through 4 May. I believe we all share the hope - and belief - that significant progress will be made in this round of negotiations.