African countries boycotted Tuesday's session of the United Nations meeting in Barcelona on greenhouse gas emissions. The 50 countries were angry that Western nations are refusing to agree concrete targets for reducing their emissions. The boycott was led by Algeria, Ethiopia and Gambia.

The European delegation to the meeting, while expressing understanding for the African position, was critical of the boycott. After emergency talks, the 50 countries agreed to return to the negotiating table on the condition the issue is discussed.

The Barcelona talks are in preparation for next month's United Nations climate conference in Copenhagen. It is hoped an agreement will be reached there to replace the Kyoto Protocol.

photo: flickr/net efekt