Notification 2006-069

Dear Madam/Sir, In decision VII/21, paragraph 4, the Conference of the Parties (COP) invited Parties, other Governments, research institutions, and other relevant organizations to make available information on research activities related to deep seabed genetic resources beyond the limits of national jurisdiction and to ensure that the results of such marine scientific research and analysis, when available, are effectively disseminated through international channels, as appropriate, in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The COP requested the Executive Secretary, in collaboration with relevant organizations, to compile and further disseminate such information through the clearing-house mechanism. Parties, other Governments and research organizations are hereby invited to provide information on past and present research activities that encompass the deep sea and open ocean environments, including research cruises that explore the deep seabed, for posting on the CBD website. Preliminary information is available on the following web page: http://www.biodiv.org/programmes/areas/marine/research.shtml Information can be sent in the form of reports, research summaries, titles of publications, web links, and/or in any other appropriate format. Information should be sent as soon as possible, but no later than 31 December 2006, preferably by email to secretariat@biodiv.org. Information regarding activities under development is also welcome and should be sent as it becomes available. Thank you for your support of the work of the Convention. Please accept, Madam/Sir, the assurances of my highest consideration.

Executive Secretary

To: CBD National Focal Points, SBSTTA Focal Points, research organizations