119. The representative of Japan reiterated the importance which his delegation attached to the issue of public health, especially where it affected developing Members. The Protocol should come into effect as early as possible. It was regrettable that only a limited number of Members had notified their acceptance so far. There was therefore no choice but to further extend the period for acceptance for another two years. He urged Members that had not yet accepted the Protocol to redouble their efforts to complete their domestic procedures and to notify their acceptance as expeditiously as possible.
