Speech

Good evening to those of you here in Durban.

Good morning to those of you back home.

One thing that has struck me already is, despite great economic uncertainty around the world, despite political change sweeping through several countries, delegates here are united.

They’re here to make a difference.

Here, to get results.

Canada is no different.

We are confident that we can make some genuine progress here at Durban.

We are here to do our part.

Some of you may remember that two years ago, in Copenhagen, developed countries promised to deliver $30 billion in fast-start financing to help vulnerable, economically-developing nations adapt to the impact of climate change.

Our government certainly has not forgotten that pledge.

As we work to eliminate our deficit domestically, our low tax plan for jobs and growth provides us with the tools we need to do our part globally.

Canadians expect our government to live up to their word.

And today, we are.

I am pleased to announce that Canada is contributing $1.2 billion in fast-start financing to a range of projects and programs in some of the world’s neediest and poorest countries.

These are concrete actions that will make a real difference in the developing world - where the needs are most pressing and the resources to act most limited.

Some $400 million is already making a difference.

Already addressing de-forestation and forest degradation...

Already ensuring food security and adaptation assistance.

So, it is my pleasure today to announcing a further investment of almost $600 million for 2011-12 and 2012-13.

These international commitments are above and beyond our domestic ones.

When it comes to climate change, Canada will continue to pursue a sector-by-sector approach to reducing GHG emissions, working closely with Provinces, Territories, industry, Aboriginal and environmental groups... a broad range of stakeholders.

As a result, we’re already well on our way to meeting our target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 17 per cent from 2005 levels by 2020.

Canada came to Durban to make a real contribution toward a global solution to this global issue; this signals that.

We are hoping for an agreement that covers all emitters and providing supports for developing countries that can most use the help.

Canada wants to see real reductions and real results. And Canadians can be assured we are doing our share.

With that, happy to take a few questions.

Thank you.