26 January 2012: The opening statements during the initial discussion on the zero draft of the Outcome Document for the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (UNCSD, or Rio+20) continued on 26 January 2012, at UN Headquarters in New York, US, with representatives from three small island developing States (SIDS) – Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Maldives, and Trinidad and Tobago – presenting comments on the draft.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines emphasized: prompt and reliable delivery of previously pledged development assistance; tailoring the outcome to the needs of developing countries; and a people-centered approach. Maldives emphasized: climate change; oceans and fisheries issues; sustainable energy; support to SIDS; and gender equality and empowerment of women. Trinidad and Tobago supported launching a process toward developing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) once their relationship with the MDGs is clearly defined, and strengthening the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) in key areas.

Following the completion of the opening statements, delegates began negotiations on the first two sections of the draft. The initial discussion will conclude on 27 January 2012. [IISD RS Meeting Coverage]