THE 2007 G8 SUMMIT

“At Heiligendamm, the G8 explicitly recognized that climate change is a global problem that requires a global response, and that we share a long-term vision on the need to accelerate our action to achieve deep reductions of greenhouse gas emissions,” said the Prime Minister. “I am particularly pleased to see that the other G8 Leaders recognized Canada’s plan to reduce emissions by 60 to 70% by 2050 over 2006 levels, as set out in our new domestic plan of action on climate change.” Prime Minister Harper congratulated German Chancellor Angela Merkel for her leadership in successfully managing an ambitious Summit agenda. In particular, he saluted the Chair’s initiative to reach out to Brazil, China, Mexico, South Africa and India through the Heiligendamm Process, which will provide a structured dialogue between the G8 and these key emerging economies, on global economic challenges which require cooperation and common solutions. Reflecting the priority that Canada attaches to its participation in the NATO-led mission in Afghanistan, Prime Minister Harper led discussions with his colleagues on this topic. Leaders agreed that the lives of Afghans are improving, but that continued engagement from the G8 and the wider global community is needed to fulfill the commitments made to the people and the Government of Afghanistan by both the United Nations (UN) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to help them rebuild their country and their lives after years of oppression and violence. Leaders also agreed to work together on a comprehensive economic strategy for development in the Afghan/Pakistan border region. In addition, the G8 Chair’s Summary welcomed the launch of the European Police Mission EUPOL in Afghanistan to help strengthen the Afghan National Police, and Canada’s decision to contribute significant resources to this initiative. http://www.pm.gc.ca/eng/media.asp?id=1688 [Proofreader's note: this article was edited for spelling and typos on June 11, 2007]

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