DEMARCHE RESPONSE - TRILATERAL PROPOSAL ON HCFCS

UNCLAS CANBERRA 000885 SENSITIVE SIPDIS STATE FOR OES/ENV THOMPSON, FINMAN E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: KGHG SENV AORC SUBJECT: DEMARCHE RESPONSE - TRILATERAL PROPOSAL ON HCFCS REF: SECSTATE 95899 ¶1. (SBU) Australia is very interested in the proposal set forth in reftel, but seeks further details with technical experts in a timeframe appropriate to resolve questions before the Montreal Protocol meetings in November. Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts Assistant Secretary Barry Reville told econoff on September 25 that Australia sees the logic of what the proposal is trying to do, and shares the goal of continuing to effectively reduce ozone-depleting substances. However, Australia has three core concerns that need further discussion to address: -- The GOA would like to talk with experts who can explain any cost impact modeling that is being used in considering how to move this proposal forward. -- Australia is concerned about how developing countries are being approached, and would welcome discussion on outreach and soundings from the U.S. among major developing country partners. Reville said he was concerned that the concept of "common but differentiated" responsibilities would be quickly attached to this discussion. -- Finally, the government is concerned that the proposal not undermine or set aside the UNFCCC as the key framework for dealing with climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. ¶2. (SBU) While Australia believes there could be a useful document or statement from the Montreal Protocol meetings going into the Copenhagen discussions, they do not believe an actual amendment of the Protocol itself is achievable and would be very interested to hear if U.S. assessments do see the prospect of an amendment this round. Reville and his team, including Ozone and Synthetic Gas Team Director Patrick McInerney, would welcome at the earliest opportunity a more detailed discussion with U.S. experts working this proposal. CLUNE