Africa seeks to extend Kyoto Protocol

African representatives at the UN-led climate change talks have expressed concern that some developed countries are trying to kill the Kyoto Protocol's two-track negotiation mechanism. UN climate chief Yvo De Boer said voicing their concerns will help lead to a compromise at the two-week meeting.

Chairperson of the African group, Djemouh Kamel, told a press conference that its countries were extremely disappointed that some developed nations are trying to abandon the existing system.

He also stressed the importance of the Kyoto Protocol which expires in 2012. De Boer acknowledged most countries would like to see it extended, and that it's not only Africa's concern.

The chief also pointed out protests from African groups and environmental campaigns will push leaders towards compromise for a final agreement.

Africa's frustration at the UN climate summit boiled over Monday  as delegates walked out of key talks and continental giant Nigeria  warned the negotiations were now on red alert. Sources at the  marathon talks said Africa led a five-hour boycott of working groups, with the backing of the Group of 77 developing nations, and only  returned after securing guarantees that the summit would not  sideline talks about the future of the Kyoto Protocol.