The Pacific Islands Forum says the Russian Parliament's ratification of the Kyoto Protocol on Climate Change is a very important step.
The Kyoto Protocol sets targets for greenhouse gas emissions which many scientists believe are responsible for changes in the world's climate.
The Protocol must be ratified by the countries who together are responsible for at least 55% of 1990 global greenhouse gas emissions.
The Forum Secretary General Greg Urwin says Russia's support is a significant development.
"The Forum's previously called for urgent action to reduce green house gas emissions and for further commitments in the future by all the major emitters."
This ratification by Russia is obviously a very important step and the Protocol now comes into effect
