Copenhagen, 14 December (Panos Radio South Asia) - A key session of the UN climate talks suspended following protests from the African countries. They accused the developed nations of trying to destroy the existing Kyoto Protocol.

This shows an ever widening rift between the developed and developing nations and the Africans are actively voicing their concern over the rich countries trying to jeopardize the Kyoto Protocol, of which the United States is still not a part of it.

The African negotiation leaders have clearly made a strong stand that they will not participate in any Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-Term Cooperative Action under the Convention, popularly known as AWG-LCA, until the developed countries start negotiations under the AWG-KP track. 

The AWG-LCA is an official body agreed at the COP-13 conference in Bali to facilitate detailed discussions to implement the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) beyond the current expiry date of the Kyoto Protocol.

Ethipian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi, Africa's chief negotiator in Copenhagen said that Africa needs a successful outcome and will not allow anything come in the way of its main interests.

Demonstrations took place inside the conference venue, Bella Centre, expressing support for the African demands.

"We need money, real money that can make a difference," said the prime minister.

He explained that he remained determined to reach out to the leaders of the developing countries to seek their solidarity.

"No one will be tempted to ignore our voice," said Zenawi.

African nations have made it clear that developed nations should substantially reduce their carbon emission and support the continent while 'other' developing nations should contribute their fair share to the solution.