Delegates from developing countries were against proposals for them to reduce their greenhouse gases. Delegates from those countries opposed these plans as the problem of too many greenhouse gases in our atmosphere stems from the practices of the developed nations.

India and China, in particular, argued the case for the developing countries, refusing to commit to any proposals which could limit their industrial development.

The problem was so serious that in the first draft of the declaration, the Indian goverment didn't even refer to the Kyoto Protocol.

The emphasis was more on adaptation and therefore preparing for the changes in the weather and our environment that climate change will bring.

The Delhi Declaration was eventually signed at the end of the 10 day conference by representatives of 185 countries, however there is no commitment in the document for poorer countries to cut greenhouse gas emissions.