We read in "The African" (4.2.99) that "the National Assembly [of Tanzania] unanimosulay passed the resolutions for the ratifications" of CMS and the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. In her speach before the House, the Minister Ms. Hulda Kibacha, said that "Tanzania strongly supported initiatives aimed at protecting the environment". She reiterated that "Tanzania [is] renowned for vast wildlife resources, including game" and that "conservation of that natural heritage [is] an issue of paramount importance". Tanzania has also expressed their wish to become a Party to AEWA in the near future..

At the same time, the Secretariat has received the news that Spain has ratified ACCOBAMS, thus becoming the second country to do so. More ratifications are expected in the next few months, as the processes are under way in several countries. Other significant countries in the area, such as Turkey and Malta, have also expressed their intention to become Parties to ACCOBAMS soon.