Decision COP VI/3

1.Takes note of the progress made in the implementation of the programme of work on marine and coastal biological diversity, including the integration of coral reefs into programme element 2 of the programme of work, as endorsed by the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice in its recommendation VI/2;

2.Requests the Executive Secretary to continue facilitating the implementation of the specific work plan on coral bleaching as contained in annex II to recommendation VI/2 of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice and the work plan on physical degradation and destruction of coral reefs as contained in annex I thereto, setting priorities as appropriate, with special emphasis on small island developing States and the least developed States, in active collaboration with the International Coral Reef Initiative and its partners, the regional seas programmes of the United Nations Environment Programme, the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, and other relevant organizations;

3.Invites the Executive Secretary to continue developing further the work plan on physical degradation and destruction of coral reefs as contained in annex I to recommendation VI/2 of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice;

4.Invites the Executive Secretary to strengthen collaboration with regional seas conventions and action plans;