Another significant achievement and milestone will undoubtedly be the adoption of the first Protocol to be concluded under the Convention on Biological Diversity. I refer to the final round of negotiations under way for the conclusion and adoption of a Protocol on Biosafety, scheduled for Cartegena Colombia in February 1999. The protocol on biosafety will help to ensure that biological and genetic resources of countries are protected against possible adverse impacts of LMOs whilst countries and nations get to enjoy the benefits that products derived from genetic resurces through modern biotechnology can offer. In view of the efforts that all countries have put into protecting their national biotic wealth, there is an urgent need to mobilize and avail to the countries the necessary support including scientific, technical and adequate financial resources, in a timely and sustained manner, as part of a continuous effort to make conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity a theme and business of everyday life. All sectors of civil society including the scientific community, NGOs and industry have a critical role to play in support of Government efforts.
Astronomers believe that Mars once sustained life.
The problems that the Earth is currently facing include, among others, the impacts of climate change, global warming, desertification and pollution of our oceans and freshwater bodies. No global issue can be addressed in isolation. However, if we work together to protect the biological diversity of the planet, some lasting solutions may be found that go a long way towards fixing the other interlinked problems. In short, we all have a significant role to play. Let us show the way.