The ambassador said commitment from developed as well as developing countries is highly needed to address the impact of climate change as the issue requires common responsibility.

In an exclusive interview with ENA the ambassador said it is the first time for Africa to have common position and a single voice at the international fora, which is essential to advance common cause.  

Ambassador Jarslaw said Africa should work aggressively to address the issue of climate change as it is a determining factor for agriculture and natural resource which is the survival of almost the whole of the continent.

He said as member of the European Union (EU) his country as a member of will support the position of Africa and will work closely with stakeholders to address the issue. 

The ambassador said there must be an integrated approach in Ethiopia to raise awareness on the climate change and tackle the consequence of its impact.

It was noted that Prime Minister Meles Zenawi will be heading the African negotiating team at the Copenhagen conference.  

Prime Minister Meles has good knowledge on climate change and is a good negotiator, he said, adding, the premier’s leading role in representing Africa should be appreciated.

Ethiopia’s distinguished role in mobilizing African nations to formulate one African position and representation at the negotiation in Copenhagen, Denmark is spectacular, he said. 

The ambassador said awareness raising programs should be strengthened in order to address the issue of climate change ultimately.

The same will and tradition is still being advanced by the Ethiopian government for the union and the common position of Africa since the inception of the OAU.  

He said there must be valid agreement and hoped that the Copenhagen conference will be an auspicious circumstance to make firm agreement on the issue of climate change.

The ambassador said something is expected out of the conference that would help advance the issue and demand urgent commitment of world leaders.  

Media reports earlier indicated that the European Commission has recommended EU member countries to pay up to 15bn euros a year from 2013 to developing nations to help them cope with the effects of climate change. (ENA)