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May 24, 2007

Amendment to WMO Convention

The ongoing XV World Meteorological Congress in Geneva approved on 23 May an important amendment to the Preamble of the WMO Convention.

The amended Preamble reads:

"Considering the need for sustainable development, the reduction of loss of life and property caused by natural disasters and other catastrophic events related to weather, climate and water, as well as safeguarding the environment and the global climate for present and future generations of humankind;

Recognizing the importance of an integrated international system for the observation, collection, processing and dissemination of meteorological, hydrological and related data and products;

Reaffirming the vital importance of the mission of the National Meteorological, Hydrometeorological and Hydrological Services in observing and understanding weather and climate and in providing meteorological, hydrological and related services in support of relevant national needs which should include the following areas:

(a) Protection of life and property;
(b) Safeguarding the environment;
(c) Contributing to sustainable development;
(d) Promoting long term observation and collection of meteorological, hydrological and climatological data, including related environmental data;
(e) Promotion of endogenous capacity building;
(f) Meeting international commitments; and
(g) Contributing to international cooperation;

Recognizing also that Members need to work together to coordinate, standardize, improve and encourage efficiencies in the exchange of meteorological, climatological, hydrological and related information between them, in the aid of human activities;

Considering that meteorology is best coordinated at the international level by one responsible international organization;

Considering further the need for a close cooperation with other international organizations also working in the areas of hydrology, climate and environment;

The contracting States agree to the present Convention, as follows:" [...]

For the attainment of its primary objective, which is to establish, maintain and exploit European systems of operational meteorological satellites, EUMETSAT is bound by its Convention to take into account as far as possible the recommendations of the World Meteorological Organization.
The amendment to the WMO Convention will, therefore, have important consequences for EUMETSAT and its activities.

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