G8 updates

Some info from the upcoming G8 in Japan: The Japanese government updated their website: http://www.mofa.go.jp/policy/economy/summit/2008/index.html

it looks like the main themes of G8 summit will be as follows:

Following the 'Cool Earth 50' proposed by Japan, G8 agreed that they will consider seriously the decisions made by the European Union, Canada and Japan which include at least a halving of global emissions by 2050 at the G8 Heiligendamm Summit in 2007.
Japan attaches importance to the following three principles in establishing an effective framework beyond 2012:
- Participation of all major emitters including developing countries
- Flexibility and diversity
- Compatibility between environmental protection and economic growth by utilizing energy conservation and other technologies
Ahead of the G8 Summit, meetings such as the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the UNFCCC, the Major Economies Meeting and the 4th Ministerial Meeting of Gleneagles Dialogue will take place.

Given 2008 is the mid-point for the achievement of MDGs, the status of implementation will be reviewed.

Under the theme of "Towards a Vibrant Africa: Continent of Hope and Opportunity", TICAD Ⅳ aims to mobilize knowledge and resources of the international community in order to strengthen the recent positive trends in Africa. Discussions at the G8 Summit will build on the outcome of TICAD Ⅳ.

In particular, issues of sustained growth of world economy, investment, trade, protection of intellectual property rights, emerging economies and natural resources could be taken on board at the Summit.

Proliferation of WMD and their delivery means is a serious threat to the international community. Given the seriousness of the nuclear issues of North Korea and Iran, we need to send a strong message toward strengthening the non-proliferation regime.

G8 will act resolutely against terrorism. G8 will also discuss regional political issues of international concern at the time of the Summit.

Sarajean's notes