Mr Obama now needs the audacity of hope

Yvo de Boer

The Copenhagen Accord was crafted by a group of countries, including the biggest, richest, poorest and smallest, and incorporating nations responsible for 80 per cent of global emissions.

IN AN effort to reposition themselves as the leader of the developing world, the BASIC countries sought to build up pressure on the rich countries to deliver on their promise of funds. At the same time, the four advanced developing countries

The joint statement issued at the conclusion of the Second Meeting of Ministers of the BASIC group countries on climate change in New Delhi is notable for the sober message it sends to the developed world and the United Nations: that progress on climate talks will depend on a reassertion of the central principle of common but differentiated responsibilities outlined by the UN Framework Convention

Sees itself as spearhead for G-77, to press for twin-track talks in run-up to Mexico.

RASHME SEHGAL

Ministers of the BASIC countries (Brazil, South Africa, India and China) met in New Delhi on Sunday and reiterated that they formed an integral part of G-77 even as they underscored the need to revitalise the entire UNFCCC process. By doing so, it becomes obvious that the BASIC countries are also throwing their weight behind the Kyoto Protocol and the Bali Action Plan.

Rejecting attempts to make the Copenhagen Accord the new international legal framework on climate change, India and the three other major developing countries that constitute the BASIC group, on Sunday reaffirmed their commitment in the existing global arrangement that has the Kyoto Protocol and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) at its centre.

THE BASIC countries will meet the January 31 deadline to associate with the Copenhagen accord and submit their voluntary emission reduction actions. In a joint statement, the ministers from Brazil, South Africa, India and China