UN Climate Change Convention in Buenos Aires.

COP 10 marks the tenth anniversary of the entry into force of the Framework Convention on Climate Change which will serve as a central theme for the meeting. In addition to the accomplishments of the past ten years and future challenges, discussions at COP 10 will highlight a range of climate-related issues including the impacts of climate change and adaptation measures, mitigation policies and their impacts, and technology.

Participants are also expected to prepare for the entry into force of the Kyoto Protocol scheduled for next February.

The countdown to the Kyoto Protocol's entry into force was triggered by the receipt of the Russian Federation's instrument of ratification by the United Nations Secretary-General last November. The Protocol will become legally binding on its 128 Parties on 16 February 2005 and becomes enforceable 90 days later.

UN Secretary General Kofi Annan described the Russian Federation ratification as a historic step, "ending a long period of uncertainty. Those countries that have ratified the Protocol and which have been trying to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases even before its entry into force, now have a binding obligation to do so".

"Businesses that have been exploring the realm of green technology now have a strong signal about the market viability of their products and services. And the financial community and insurance industry, which have been trying to "put a price" on the risks associated with climate change, now have a stronger basis for their decision making on incentives and corporate performance".

The Buenos Aires meeting will extend until December 17 with the participation of delegates from 148 countries, an estimated 6,000 people.