"To achieve this, we need to build on our previous work and strengthen the ability of the UN system to assist vulnerable countries build their capacity and capability to adapt,'' Kerim told a special one-day debate on the issue.
According to him, "in doing so, the system would work together more coherently to deliver more than the sum of its parts."
He called for stepped-up efforts to transfer technology to developing countries that cannot otherwise afford it, as well as to ensure sufficient funding to help the needy.
"We have the technological capability and scientific know-how," the president said.
He, however, warned that "a global consensus can only be secured if all countries can share in the benefits from action to address it, in particular the most vulnerable countries."
Emphasising that addressing global warming is intrinsically linked to sustainable development, Kerim also voiced concern over the impact of climate change on Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Also addressing the debate, UN Deputy Secretary-General Asha-Rose Migiro said climate change placed severe burden on the poor.
Citing the UN's Human Development Report, Migiro noted that one in 19 people in developing countries would likely feel the impact of global warming, compared to only one in 1,500 in the 30 industrialised and market-economy countries that make up the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
She pointed out that the most vulnerable risk was being flooded out of their homes, facing greater health risks and finding access to water impeded by climate change.
"These trends will be alarming enough individually, but taken together, they amount to a development crisis unless action is taken on a war-footing, the world will not only miss the Millennium Development Goals, we will also see existing development gains unravel as well,'' she said.
The debate was the third on climate change convened by the 62nd session of the UN General Assembly.
New York - 09/07/2008
Pana
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